Jim Hawley Music
Jim Hawley performing at Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor, MI
Jim Hawley is a Traverse City, Michigan-based musician whose soulful voice and poignant songwriting have captivated audiences for decades. Blending folk, rock, country, and timeless standards, his music reflects a life shaped by diverse experiences—from a nomadic childhood spanning Southern California, the Northeast, and Miami, to his service in the U.S. Navy, all of which fueled his drive to perform professionally on iconic stages nationwide.
A California native, Jim’s early years were marked by constant movement, instilling the emotional depth that defines his artistry. He picked up the guitar in high school in Miami and joined the Navy shortly after graduation. During his four-year service, including two years in Oahu, Hawaii, he honed his craft performing at venues like the Polynesian Palace and appeared on The Don Ho Show. After his discharge, he pursued music full-time in Southern California gracing stages in San Diego and Los Angeles at legendary spots like The Troubadour, The Ice House, and The Improv. Returning to Miami, he grew his audience through coffeehouse gigs, clubs and commercial work, which led to opening for major acts like Jimmy Buffett, Steve Miller, and Little River Band.
Jim’s career flourished through extensive touring on the college circuit and a subsequent move to Nashville, where he collaborated with top session players and competed in the finals of You Can Be a Star. After 21 years, he traded the Nashville scene for a quieter life in Traverse City, where he has become a cornerstone of the local music community. Today, he performs regularly at venues like The Grand Traverse Resort, Crystal Mountain Resort, Apache Trout Grill, North Bar, The Parlor and local wineries. Blending original songs with reimagined classics from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, his shows are celebrated for their warmth, humor, and spontaneity. These qualities recently earned him the honor of opening two shows for Lee Greenwood in support of veterans’ causes of which he is a passionate advocate.
Jim also spends time in Florida, performing in the vibrant music community of Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach and also in Clearwater’s Gulf Coast. In March or April, he might be playing popular music venues such as The Omni Plantation Resort, The Sandbar, The Boat House or The Palace Saloon, among others.
Known for his soaring, powerful vocals, he has paid tribute to musical hero Dan Fogelberg with dedicated performances at The Traverse City Opera House, The Pavillion Summer Concert series and Onekama Concert series. Influenced by legends like James Taylor, John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot, Kenny Loggins and Jimmy Buffet, but especially Fogelberg, Jim’s music resonates with themes of love, hope, and reflection. He is currently working on a “covers album” to capture the energy of his acclaimed live performances.
Jim is married with two adult children. Connect with him at jimhawleymusic.com or follow him on Facebook to experience the heartfelt artistry of this Traverse City treasure.
A California native, Jim’s early years were marked by constant movement, instilling the emotional depth that defines his artistry. He picked up the guitar in high school in Miami and joined the Navy shortly after graduation. During his four-year service, including two years in Oahu, Hawaii, he honed his craft performing at venues like the Polynesian Palace and appeared on The Don Ho Show. After his discharge, he pursued music full-time in Southern California gracing stages in San Diego and Los Angeles at legendary spots like The Troubadour, The Ice House, and The Improv. Returning to Miami, he grew his audience through coffeehouse gigs, clubs and commercial work, which led to opening for major acts like Jimmy Buffett, Steve Miller, and Little River Band.
Jim’s career flourished through extensive touring on the college circuit and a subsequent move to Nashville, where he collaborated with top session players and competed in the finals of You Can Be a Star. After 21 years, he traded the Nashville scene for a quieter life in Traverse City, where he has become a cornerstone of the local music community. Today, he performs regularly at venues like The Grand Traverse Resort, Crystal Mountain Resort, Apache Trout Grill, North Bar, The Parlor and local wineries. Blending original songs with reimagined classics from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, his shows are celebrated for their warmth, humor, and spontaneity. These qualities recently earned him the honor of opening two shows for Lee Greenwood in support of veterans’ causes of which he is a passionate advocate.
Jim also spends time in Florida, performing in the vibrant music community of Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach and also in Clearwater’s Gulf Coast. In March or April, he might be playing popular music venues such as The Omni Plantation Resort, The Sandbar, The Boat House or The Palace Saloon, among others.
Known for his soaring, powerful vocals, he has paid tribute to musical hero Dan Fogelberg with dedicated performances at The Traverse City Opera House, The Pavillion Summer Concert series and Onekama Concert series. Influenced by legends like James Taylor, John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot, Kenny Loggins and Jimmy Buffet, but especially Fogelberg, Jim’s music resonates with themes of love, hope, and reflection. He is currently working on a “covers album” to capture the energy of his acclaimed live performances.
Jim is married with two adult children. Connect with him at jimhawleymusic.com or follow him on Facebook to experience the heartfelt artistry of this Traverse City treasure.
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Jim Hawley Video'sVideo Production - Michael Toms
Jim Hawley performs an original tune on Radio Motion. Rick Kiehle on bass guitar. “Jim, just a note to say how wonderful it is to hear you sing ~ you are blessed and I find it so wonderful to hear people like you using your God given talent. May all your dreams come true.” 
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