Under the Influence – 3 Decades of Rock, Rhythm & Family

“We stole it from a museum,” laughs guitarist Keven Schneider.
“And then we kept stealing… mostly from AC/DC and Led Zeppelin,” adds bassist Glenn Poirier with a grin.

That mix of wit, swagger, and straight-up honesty sums up Under the Influence—a band that’s been rocking audiences for more than thirty years with the kind of friendship, fire, and fun that can’t be faked.

A Name with a Story

The name Under the Influence wasn’t just inspired—it was lifted directly from a Thomas Hart Benton exhibit at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art in the band’s hometown of St. Joseph, Missouri.
“I was working for AKMA at the time, going to college with Jason, when I auditioned for what became our future,” recalls lead vocalist Tyler Osborn.

Back in 1992, Schneider and Poirier were already seasoned “bar bruisers” looking for their next great project. Tyler joined the mix, along with an 18-year-old guitar prodigy, Jason Riley, and the core of UTI was born.

A rotating cast of talented percussionists followed until Charles Stone took the drum throne in 1995—locking in the lineup that’s now been together for 25 years. With the addition of powerhouse backing vocalists Jolie Riley and Leslie Stone, the circle was complete.

From Dive Bars to Big Stages

Under the Influence didn’t just play shows—they built a legacy. The band founded InnerThump Records, releasing an inaugural EP and the full-length albums What Is and Shake Rattle Shatter, produced by platinum-winning engineer Ken Paulakovich.

Whether they’re tearing through classic rock covers, stripping it down for an acoustic set, or delivering fan-favorite originals, UTI plays with rare skill, real heart, and the kind of joy that fills a room—from backyards to amphitheaters.

And they’ve shared stages with some serious rock royalty: The Doobie Brothers, REO Speedwagon, John Cafferty, Johnny Van Zant, .38 Special, Little River Band, Head East, Puddle of Mudd, and Soca Jukebox.

The Numbers Tell the Story

30+ years of live music
25 years with the current lineup
Over 2,000 shows played
Countless memories made with fans and friends

Meet the Band

Jason Riley – Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Keven Schneider – Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Vocals
Glenn Poirier – Bass Guitar
Charles Stone – Drums
Tyler Osborn – Lead Vocals
Jolie Riley & Leslie Stone – Vocals

Under the Influence isn’t just a band—it’s a family. Bound by music, laughter, and a love for playing together, they continue to prove that great rock ‘n’ roll never gets old… it just gets better.

Looking for live music near you? Under the Influence is one of the Midwest’s most exciting and enduring rock bands, delivering classic rock, acoustic sets, and original music that keep audiences moving and smiling. Based in St. Joseph, Missouri, we bring high-energy shows to Kansas City, St. Joseph, and venues across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and beyond. Whether you’re searching for the best live music in Kansas City, a classic rock cover band, or a top local band for weddings, festivals, private events, and concerts, Under the Influence delivers unforgettable performances.

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