All Aboard with The Legendary Trainhoppers
by Sofi Houg
When The Legendary Trainhoppers take the stage, they are not just performing music. They are creating a shared moment with the crowd. The Fort Wayne-based band, known for their rich Americana sound and collaborative spirit, is bringing that connection to Van Wert’s Fountain Park. And for them, live shows are about more than sound. They are about energy, communication, and something uniquely human.
“Performing music live is a chance to interact with others on a deep level that isn’t possible any other way,” said bassist and vocalist Casey Stansifer. “The audience plays a part in the experience too. If folks are dancing, we may extend the song to keep that energy going.”
The band lets the music breathe and evolve during each show. They communicate through their instruments, feeding off one another and the crowd. From spontaneous solos to rhythm changes inspired in the moment, no two performances are exactly the same.
Their music is shaped by where they come from. Fort Wayne is more than just a hometown. It is a source of stories, spirit, and inspiration. “Every human is a product of their environment,” said Chris Dodds, who plays guitar, keyboards, and sings. “Some might feel trapped by that, while others use it to celebrate their roots. I believe the Trainhoppers live in the second camp.”
Songs like Banks of the Cumberland reflect that deep sense of place. Guitarist and mandolin player Matt Kelley said the song came from a family history book that his aunt put together. It tells the true story of his grandfather’s family moving from Nashville to Fort Wayne. “We just made it rhyme and wrote the chorus,” Kelley said. “It’s become one of our signature songs, and we love to play it.”
The band formed during college, playing coffee shops, house parties, festivals, and even bowling alleys. Guitarist and vocalist Phil Potts recalled a memorable night at a local coffee house. “They had no other nights with music, just us,” he said. “We convinced them to let us play on a Saturday night and packed the place. Standing ovations, multiple encores... what a show.”
Over time, the group evolved from casual collaborators into a creative force. Each member contributes to the songwriting process. They often upload rough ideas to a shared Google Drive and build on each other's work. “It’s about collaboration, not compromise,” said Kelley. “We’re finishing up our fifth album right now, and in my opinion, it’s the best music we’ve ever recorded.”
Even their most familiar songs stay fresh. “We like to stretch certain tunes and change little things in the live versions,” said Potts. “Playing with this group of musicians and for great crowds makes every show feel new.”
Staying rooted in traditional country and rock does not stop them from exploring. “Sometimes the right choice is a twangy Telecaster,” said Dan Smyth, guitarist and vocalist. “Other times, it’s about stretching the lyrics or letting silence speak.”
Behind the scenes, being in a band takes more than talent. It takes effort, organization, and commitment. “Most people see the connection and the joy on stage,” Smyth said. “They don’t always see the work it takes to keep it all going.”
For Stansifer, the biggest surprise has been how his musical tastes have grown over time. “I used to be all about loud and fast,” he said. “Now I’m drawn to melodies that last for decades. Each band member has introduced me to music that changed my perspective.”
In the end, it is about people. Dodds hopes the audience leaves feeling something deeper than a catchy chorus. “It’s the feeling you get from a shared experience,” he said. “You can see it on our faces and hear it in the songs. Some of my most treasured friendships started after a show.”
As the Trainhoppers prepare to light up Fountain Park, their goal is simple. They want to make Van Wert feel like home for the night. And judging by the stories, the songs, and the passion they bring to the stage, they will do just that.
