Van Buren: ep 123. Don Maness - Singer and Songwriter

Don Maness lives in Fort Worth, TX. He was born in Big Stone Gap, VA. Growing up along Route 23, Don was influenced by many local stars including Ralph Stanley, Keith Whitley, The Carter Family, Ricky Skaggs, Loretta Lynn, and Dwight Yokum. Don’s other musical influences include Merle Haggard, George Strait, Johnny Cash, and Marty Robbins.

Don's music career began at the age of 12. He grew up playing lead guitar and piano for his parent's gospel group. They traveled extensively in Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky and other states. Don just recently produced his parent's 10th gospel album called The Shining Light.

As a singer songwriter, Don is a member of ASCAP, IBMA, and NASAI. He has written over fifteen copyrighted songs and performed around the world. Within the United States, Don has performed in Nashville (Bluebird Cafe, Nashville Palace, BB Kings, Late Night Grand Old Opry), Fort Worth (White Elephant Saloon), Asheville, Charlotte, Columbus, Phoenix, Pittsburgh (Mario's South Side Saloon), Bismarck, Atlanta, Phoenix, Houston and San Antonio. Outside of the United States, Don has performed in France (Nice and Paris), China (Shanghai, Beijing, Chongquing), Canada (London Ontario)

Don has a degree in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech. In Don's business career, he has held leadership roles as a CEO, General Manager, and Sales. He has led businesses ranging from 100M to 1B in revenue. Don has done business in over 23 countries around the world and has learned to speak Spanish, and limited Mandarin.

Don continues to write music and perform when time allows while working as a business professional.

Don's website: https://www.donmaness.com/