Michelle Lee On Air By: Marsha Channell
Artist Spotlight – Jackson Harris
In the heart of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, a young artist is proving that while some are born into music, others are destined to lead it into the next generation. At just 17 years old, Jackson Harris isn’t just playing notes; he’s honoring a lineage.
A “sixth-generation musician,” Harris grew up surrounded by the sounds of bluegrass and country. His journey began at the early age of eight, sparked by a serendipitous connection to his great-grandfather’s Dobro. “My dad was given my great-grandpa’s Dobro that had the name ‘Jack’ inlay on the headstock,” Harris recalls. When he was young, he thought the dobro was his because it had part of his name on it. He always wanted to play it. That early curiosity blossomed into a profound talent. Today, the Dobro remains his signature sound, most notably on his favorite track “Get On The Run” from his latest album, “The Man I Want To Be”.
For many artists, the dream of a “big moment” takes decades. For Jackson, it arrived at age 12 on the most hallowed ground in country music: The Ryman Auditorium. Standing on that legendary stage alongside Rhonda Vincent to sing George Jones’ “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes”. Harris definitely felt the weight of history but understood the magnitude of it, especially as a 12-year-old. As he got older, Harris has become more appreciative of it more.
While many young artists struggle to find their voice, Jackson has a clear North Star. His songwriting process is rooted in a piece of advice from his late great-great-aunt Sophie: “Always write down your memories and experiences because one day you might turn them into a song.” True to those words, the first song Jackson ever wrote was a tribute to Sophie after her passing. This commitment to authenticity made the creation of his latest album a two-year labor of love. His biggest challenge? Finding material that fit a 17-year-old’s life without leaning on industry clichés like “drinking or divorce.”
Jackson credits his father, Mickey Harris, as his primary musical inspiration, and the Lord as his non-musical foundation. It was the shift from Harris asking for gigs to venues seeking him out—prompted by word-of-mouth praise his father heard on the road—that signaled it was time to go “full force” into his career.
Despite his deep roots, Harris faces the modern hurdles of any new artist: the “art” of social media and self-promotion. Yet, his advice to fellow newcomers remains grounded in the old-school integrity that defines his sound: “Make sure what you record and promote is what you want to be known as to the world. Don’t compromise your values to make a buck.”
With a July 14th birthday and a dream collaboration with artists like Zach Top or Ed Sheeran on the horizon, Jackson Harris is a name to watch. He isn’t just filling shoes; he’s walking a path all his own.
Rapid fire questions –
What is your favorite Holiday and why? Christmas because of the Lord, cold weather, and presents.
What is your favorite saying/quote? You may not know now, but later you will understand – John 13:7
What is your dream destination? Switzerland because I love the mountains. Lord willing, I can play a show over there sometime.
What is your favorite ice cream? Mint Chocolate Chip
What is your favorite snack food on the road? Extra Toasty Cheez-its and Reese Cups
What is state has been your favorite to do a concert/event in? Tennessee
Who is your favorite Actor/Actress? Glen Powell or Tyler Perry
What is your favorite movie quote? “My mama always said, ‘Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get’” – Forrest Gump
What is your favorite type of car? White Dodge Ram 3500
Do you have a hobby outside of music? I enjoy working on local farms. It is a hobby but can be more like a job at times.
What is your favorite book that you have read or author that you like to read? I like movies better.
Announcements:
Harris explained, “I wanted to find songs and write songs that I felt were representative to me as a person and showed my values”. This is exactly the type of song you get when you listen to a song from Jackson Harris. Make sure to check out his website JacksonHarrisOfficial.com to get your copy of the new album “The Man I Want To Be” and new limited-edition merchandise. You can also stay up to date on all his happenings, new singles and/or surprises by following him on Instagram or Facebook at jacksonharris_official.
Jackson Harris has a new single out featuring Rhonda Vincent “Last Thing On My Mind”.