Meet JJ: The Music Maverick from Northeast Texas
Justin Jones, better known as JJ, hails from the small dairy town of Sulphur Springs, TX. This is where his musical journey began as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the beloved band "Barefoot Texans".
Early Life and Influences
During JJ’s formative years, he dedicated himself to his craft, employing inventive techniques to hone his talent. Early on, he'd practice singing into a coffee can, ingeniously fashioned as a makeshift monitor, to fine-tune his pitch. As his talent progressed, he'd steal away to the barn, donning a 5-gallon bucket as a practice aid while he mastered his vocals and acoustic guitar.
His distinctive sound finds its roots on both sides of the Red River. Influenced by Texas country legends like Hayes Carll, Chris Knight, and Rodney Crowell, as well as Red Dirt icons such as Ray Wyile Hubbard, Jason Boland, and Stoney Larue, his performances are marked by enthralling vocals, a dynamic tone, and an inclination for crafting setlists that captivate and engage any audience with a blend of old and new Texas country, Red Dirt, and his own original songs.
Highlights
JJ's talent has earned him a multitude of accolades and awards in the singer-songwriter realm. Notably, The Ranch crowned him as the Grand Champion of the Texas Music Shootout, granting him a demo recording session at Largemouth Studios in China Springs, TX. As he made his mark in the Texas singer-songwriter circuit, he landed on stage in a song swap with Evan Felker, frontman of Turnpike Troubadours.
Shortly after high school, JJ embarked on a parallel career as a traveling construction worker, taking him to various corners of the United States. While on the road, he continued to nurture his passion for music, writing and performing in his spare time. During his time in Las Vegas, NV he collaborated with Chris Heers to create the fan favorite, "Town of Alone."
Later, he relocated to Austin, TX, the renowned "Live Music Capital," to continue his music career. His construction work led him to diverse locations, including Hawaii, Georgia, Utah, and eventually, Idaho, where he fell in love with the mountains and surrounding area. Despite the demands of full-time employment, JJ balanced both his craft and his profession.
A Leap of Faith…
In November 2021, a pivotal moment arrived with the birth of his son, Jasper. JJ made a daring choice to pivot to playing music full-time for the first time in his career. Since then, he has made a significant impact on the flourishing Northwest music scene, sharing stages with popular acts such as Jeff Crosby, Tylor and The Train Robbers, Jesse Dayne & The Sagebrush Drifters, Good Time Charlie, Zach Nytomt, and more.
Justin Jones, or simply JJ, stands as a true ambassador of Texas Country Music, celebrated for his genuine storytelling, unwavering dedication to his roots, and true passion for the craft that has made him a cherished figure in the live music industry.
