Bill's Story

In an ever-changing society, many are often searching for a “voice” to help guide them through their lives. But only a few are brave enough to walk as disciples and ignite the passion of God's love in others, and awaken them to their greater calling and purpose. Contemporary singer/songwriter Bill Tonnis is committed to this path of discipleship and wants to use his music, his ministry and his personal testimony as an example to encourage others.

Residents of the Cincinnati area may recognize Bill Tonnis (pronounced toe-nis) as a popular name on radio for many years. Born and raised in Ohio, Bill was always the “creative” type. He started playing guitar as early as fourth grade, dabbled as a sketch artist in high school and was even a member of his school “GLEE” club. But when he entered Xavier University as a Broadcast Journalism major he set out on a course that would ultimately steer him to where he is today. Experience as a news anchor, a sportscaster, and a local reporter consumed much of his life. He wanted to be “somebody” but also appreciated the anonymity behind the microphone. He was much more “realistic” than he was “optimistic”, but was always searching for something more... the next big story. As a young adult, he was evolving and changing but was also realizing that his legacy in radio broadcasting was leaving him empty and unfulfilled. Bill Tonnis was the voice on the radio informing his community about some of the most iconic stories of that time both on a national and local level. Stories like the Challenger lift-off, the beating of Rodney King, and the Bombing of Baghdad (that kicked off the Gulf War) and the gut-wrenching Cincinnati Riot in 2001. All the while, Bill was attending church each and every Sunday, but more so in obligation - than in commitment to Christ.

In 1997, while immersed in an exhausting week of reporting on the devastating flood of the Ohio River, Bill experienced a profound sense of emptiness and sadness. It was if he was drowning in misery. He cried out to God in desperation and surrendered himself admitting that he was unable to fill the gaping hole in his heart on his own. In prayerful silence, Bill Tonnis heard a new voice, picked up his guitar and started writing music...with a renewed purpose. However, making the transition from newsman to music man was not without its challenges. Bill suffered from several health issues that, at times, held him hostage from finding balance in his life. Surviving a life threatening illness ultimately led him to a spiritual awakening which pushed him one step further not only toward music but a period of discernment. Not long thereafter, (while still working at the radio station), he entered the College of Mount St Joseph and pursued a Masters in Religious & Pastoral Studies hoping to inspire his songwriting. During this time, Bill also joined a church band called CELEBRATE. In 2003, CELEBRATE recorded a CD which included several of Bill's original compositions. Ironically, CELEBRATE was scheduled to perform one of their biggest events to date on the very day that the tragedy of 9/11 occurred. The event went on as planned but instead of being behind the news microphone that night, Bill Tonnis was behind a stage microphone spreading the good news and hope in Christ through music and prayer.

In 2007, Bill Tonnis released his debut CD titled LISTEN TO YOUR HEART. In a literal translation he took this message seriously and resigned from a 20 year career in radio broadcasting to pursue a new direction in his life. The CD was well received by the Catholic/Christian community. His follow-up CD, titled LIVE TO LOVE was released in 2009. The songs on these projects represent a variety of musical styles, but the constant theme is that it is never too late to find YOUR voice.

Today Bill Tonnis works as a Youth Minister at Our Lady of the Visitation Church. He shares his talent and testimony at schools, churches, meetings, conferences, youth groups and retreats. He is expanding his vocation and is creating a ministry presentation titled “Listen - Live - Give... Find Your Voice” focusing on how to be Disciples for Christ. It’s the best news story Bill Tonnis can ever deliver!