Christian Shaffer

Outlaw Americana Since 2024

Formed in Manhatton, KS, Southwind is a raw and real Americana band that prides itself on creating music that evokes emotion and emphasizes their heartland influences. Their sound blends that of the indie bands and the red dirt rockets to bring a new sound onto the country and Americana scene that is like no other.

In January of 2024, lead singer, Christian Shaffer, set out to start a band. After putting out an ad in search of musicians at Kansas State University, he soon found guitarist Cody Sundquist. After teaming up with writer Dylan Sample, the trio wrote their first handful of songs. Cody would soon meet guitarist Jonathan Cantrell, bassist Logan Burr, and drummer Stephen Peterson at a jam that would soon become the beginnings of Southwind as we know it.

Since this unity in November of 2024, Southwind continues its musical journey. Two songs, as of April 2025, have been recorded and released while several others are set to be cut soon. All members pride themselves on delivering an engaging and exciting live show with musicianship that is second to none. Music can be streamed on all platforms.

Christian Shaffer

Performing since age 7, Christian Shaffer is no stranger to the stage. He began singing and acting at his local church in choirs and plays. Throughout middle school and high school he was involved in a number of musical productions while maintaining lead roles. Most recently, he was part of a Broadway production that held a residency in Hawaii. “Since the summer of 2024 I have been performing with my band Southwind and have loved every minute of it. My greatest accomplishment with my musical career thus far has been being able to release our music to streaming platforms.

Jonathan “Jonno” Cantrell

Since learning to play guitar in 2022, Jonathan “Jonno” Cantrell has become a staple to the band’s rhythm and writing. He became inspired to pick up the guitar after noticing his brother’s acoustic had found a new home in his closet. With influences from Mark Knopfler, Fleetwood Mac, and various indie bands, his style shines a new light on an otherwise standard genre. His style is something like “Dire Straits meets Lost Dog Street Band”. With a background in banjo, Americana and country came naturally while still being able to maintain his rock influences. “Since starting on the guitar, I was hooked. I’ve been so grateful to find community and friendships along my journey as a musician.”

Stephen Peterson

Stephen Peterson has been playing drums for 9 years, starting in middle school. Throughout middle school and high school he was involved in marching and pep band. Upon starting his career at Kansas State, he joined the basketball pep band. “I found the Southwind guys during my senior year at K-State and haven’t looked back since.”

Logan Burr

Logan Burr has been involved heavily in music for roughly ten years. Starting out on trumpet in fourth grade as a way to get out of study hall, Logan found a passion for music and has since picked up several other instruments including piano, other brass instruments, and more recently, bass. Though not originally a bass player, his ability to make “bass noises” has been an essential part to the bands groove. “I am incredibly lucky to have the chance to play in such a cool band, as well as getting the chance to meet some pretty cool people. Going forward I’m excited to see what the future holds!”

Cody Sundquist

Cody Sundquist, starting on the guitar at age five and in bands in high school, has developed a passion for music unlike no other. Growing up, Guitar Hero and classic rock were a staple in his musical upbringing. More recently, his red dirt and country influences have come through after spending 4 years with red dirt cover band Outlaws Reloaded, 2 years with country rock band Kota Lewis and The Flyers, and a summer with country artist Luke Christenson. “Performing and writing are two things I am incredibly passionate about and I am beyond grateful to be with a group that feels the same way”