Father-Son Duo Hits the Road with Power Take Off
From a young age, Ayden Theis showed a natural affinity for drumming, much like his father, Scott Theis. This passion has now taken him on a 12-state tour with the Madison-area rock band Power Take Off, led by none other than his dad.
“He’s my biggest inspiration, definitely,” Ayden shared with WPR’s “Wisconsin Today.” “I want to be just like him, like how he was in his early 20s, just having a good time and playing rock and roll.”
Scott, a veteran drummer with 35 years of experience, had put his musical ambitions on hold to focus on family. As Ayden grew, Scott introduced him to his musical influences, ensuring the legacy continued. The onset of COVID-19 saw the duo setting up a home studio, where they could create music together without stepping out.
“I thought it was really cool because we could stay home, and we could go in our little studio all day,” Ayden reflected. “It was just like a release of a lot of feelings of being stuck at home, having nothing to do all day.”
Their music reflects Scott’s upbringing on Theis Brothers Farm in Madison, which was retired last year. Though Ayden didn’t work the fields like his father did, he developed an appreciation for agriculture through experiences like tractor rides.
The duo’s song “Keep Truckin’” pays homage to farmers and has supported Wisconsin 4-H financially. As Power Take Off sets out on their tour, they will traverse Florida, Texas, Arizona, and Utah before returning to Wisconsin for a fundraising event for the Madison Area Music Association in March 2026.
Scott cherishes this chapter in his life, blending his passion for music with the joy of being with his son. “I have enjoyed every moment,” he expressed to “Wisconsin Today.” “I know my days are limited, but Ayden’s got such a career in front of him. For right now, we’re just enjoying being with each other, really.”
And as for the rigors of touring, Scott adds with a laugh, “You don’t always get a shower every day, but that’s rock and roll, right?”
