Crooner Circus is a long-standing songwriter showcase and creative community based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Curated by touring artist and award winning songwriter Noah Smith, the show has featured over 300 original artists including Grammy nominated, award winning, and international performers. What started as a grassroots round in the corner of a local taproom has grown into a trusted regional platform for emerging voices and seasoned pros alike.
Held on the third Thursday of every month, Crooner Circus is a rotating lineup of 6 to 9 songwriters, each sharing their original music, stories behind the songs, and the heart that keeps them writing. From intimate listening-room vibes to packed-out bar nights, the show thrives on connection between artists, fans, and the cities we visit.
In addition to the monthly series, Noah Smith’s Crooner Circus Songwriter Festival returns for its second year on December 6th at the legendary Southgate House Revival, bringing together over 40 songwriters across multiple stages in a celebration of songcraft and storytelling.
Crooner Circus isn’t just another show it’s a movement, with a strong social media presence, content strategy, and brand that helps host venues grow their audience and build new relationships with the music community.
Jim has toured throughout the US, Puerto Rico and all points in between. He's played large festivals, and famous stages such as the Dolby Theater (formerly known as the Kodak Theater) in Hollywood California, The Blue Bird Café in Nashville and the Old Quarter Café in Galveston Texas and the Cactus Café in Austin Texas.
In 2018 a devastating medical report changed Jim's life forever. He was diagnosed with stage four melanoma cancer on his brain, lung, liver, and hip.
By April 2019 he had made a remarkable recovery and hit the ground running with his songs and music. Jim released an incredible string of singles, EPs, and a full length album. In less than two years he produced a career-worthy catalog. Then came a tour that took him back down to Texas.
It hasn’t been easy. Cancer came for him again in 2020 and 2021, but with the help of his doctors, family, friends and the prayers of fans he is once again on the mend. Treatments continue but Jim is not letting anything get in the way of the music. He’s still writing, recording, touring and releasing new songs.
Jim Duff is still fighting cancer everyday. But he refuses to let it slow him down. The show must go on. There are stories to tell and songs to write and sing.
"Originally got my start in a small town in Kentucky. I am just trying to share my story, my family's story, friend's story, and your story."