The Smokin’ Tones was formed in September 2016 as the official band of Columbia College Chicago’s late night show, Columbia Tonight. In preparation for the show’s premier, the show’s musical director, Zach Avery, posted flyers around campus with the hope of finding a band that could write and perform music tailored for the show. Shortly after, six other classmates came together and became The Columbia Tonight House Band. When Columbia Tonight was canceled in May 2017, the band decided to stick together and ventured out under a new name, The Smokin’ Tones. This began their quest for zesty, transcendental music with a huge sound. The Smokin’ Tones have continued to perform unique twists on Rock, Funk, Soul, and Blues songs as well as original songs that appeal to a wide variety of listeners.

The band has played at a variety of Chicagoland venues including Elbo Room, Reggie’s Music Joint, HVAC Pub, and Buddy Guy’s Legends.