Bobby Stocker to receive music award

Arts Center of Newcomerstown announced Bobby Stocker has been named the recipient of the 2024 Manuel Yingling Music Award, recognizing his musicianship and dedication to fostering the next generation of talent.

Stocker’s journey in music began at the age of 9 when he was inspired by a sparkling red JCPenney drum set. Over the years he played in several bands, starting with Brass Knuckle, a Northeast Ohio group, and later joining Real Steel, a Cleveland-based hard rock band. Real Steel garnered attention with their song “Never Mind the Money,” which outpaced Bon Jovi on WMMS during rush hour. The band shared the stage with renowned acts like Queensryche and Night Ranger.

After Real Steel, Stocker formed The Powercats, a blues rock band that performed 250-300 shows annually for five years. He later joined American Grease, touring extensively and playing with legends such as CCR and REO Speedwagon.

In addition to his performing career, Stocker has been a music educator for the past 20 years. He has taught and mentored hundreds of students in Tuscarawas County, many of whom have gone on to professional careers, including Ryan Bear, house drummer at Kid Rock’s Honky Tonk in Nashville. Stocker continues to teach around 30 students each week.

Currently, Stocker performs with Dirty Deeds, an AC/DC tribute band, which tours internationally and has been praised by Mike Andy, a world tour manager for AC/DC.

The Manuel Yingling Music Award, named after Newcomerstown-born trombonist and composer Manuel Yingling, honors outstanding musicianship and community involvement. Stocker will receive the award during ARTSNCT’s After-Hours event on Thursday, Oct. 24 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the ARTSNCT, 304 S. College St. Tuscarawas Arts Partnership also will be presented with an Honorary Yingling Award at this time. The event is free.