Luke Ebbin, a twelve-time platinum, five-time Grammy nominated record producer, songwriter, composer, new media entrepreneur and resident of Montecito, has been awarded an alumni citation from his alma mater, Denison University in Granville, Ohio. In a ceremony that took place in June, Denison President Adam Weinberg presented Ebbin with the highest honor conferred on a graduate or friend of the college.
Ebbin, a member of the Denison class of 1989, is considered to be the architect behind the makeover and comeback of Bon Jovi with his production of their international hit record, “Crush,” featuring the worldwide No.1 smash single “It’s My Life.” His successful association with Bon Jovi continued with Ebbin producing two additional hit albums, “Bounce” and “One Wild Night Live.” Since then, he has gone on to produce and/or write songs for Melissa Etheridge, Plain White T’s, Richie Sambora, Rival Schools, La Ley, the All-American Rejects, Will.I.Am, Alicia Keys and Zedd. Additionally, Ebbin has produced and/or composed television themes for “Entertainment Tonight,” “The Insider,” “CBS News 50th Anniversary,” and “The CBS 1998 Winter Olympics,” among others.
In 2008, Ebbin saw opportunities to break down the barriers between aspiring music artists and record industry professionals and to monetize that access. This vision led him to co-found, fundraise, build and launch the online venture Music180.com. With his considerable relationships in the industry, Ebbin led the development of Music180’s unprecedented network of top record producers, songwriters, managers and executives who offer paid services such as expert guidance, coaching sessions, song critiques, and in-studio collaboration to over 6,000 members.
Designer Ralph Lauren entrusted Ebbin as his music consultant to create the Polo “lifestyle soundtrack.” Ebbin spent five years establishing the brand’s music identity, producing, composing and curating music for Lauren’s fashion shows, retail and advertisements.
Ebbin is a member of the National Board of Directors of the Dream Foundation, a charity that grants wishes to adults with life-limiting illness. He also serves on the Advisory Board of Notes, an organization that provides free access to musical instruments and recording studios for the use of under privileged children at Boys and Girls Clubs around the country.
Ebbin lives in Montecito with his wife, Michelle, an internationally recognized wellness expert and published author, and his three boys; Jackson, Cassidy and Tanner.