Oneway-Up originated in 2005, consisting of a diverse group of musicians from Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Their music and lyrics are a tribute to each member's life, both personally and collectively.

There is a common bond that brought this group of musicians together, that under normal circumstances may never have met. Oneway-up began with Jim Johansen, Lee Medina, and Gilbert Keller. Shortly after the three began playing music together, Mike Kackos joined to add the bass guitar. In 2007, Michael Mackey joined to contribute the harp and a southern rocksound that has attracted yet another genre of music lovers. Most recently recruited is Doug (preacherman) with a spectacular drum beat. All the members of Oneway-Up have history with other bands and musical endeavors in Chicago and surrounding areas.

 

Oneway-Up loves the blues, yet knows and desires to cater to music lovers of all generations. Their inspirations include Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, Santana, The Doors, The Allman Brothers, Lynard Skynard, James Cotton, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Pearl Jam, and The Blues Travelers.  The result is a rock edged Chicago Blues sound, one that is uniquely Oneway-up.

A few of Oneway-Up's achievements include:

Three #1 songs on MS-Blues.com

Two songs awarded the #5 and #11 spots on MS-Blues.com

Two top 10 songs in 2007 on OurStage.com

Radio air play in the LA, Seattle and Atlanta markets