172. Musician Aaron Jaxon discusses his love for Johnson City and his journey in the music industry

About the Guest:

Aaron Jaxon is a multifaceted musician with roots deeply planted in East Texas and branches extending to the beautiful mountains of Johnson City, Tennessee. With over 22 years of musical experience, he has mastered various styles ranging from bluegrass to rock and R&B. Aaron is not just a performer but also an educator, having served as an adjunct professor at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) where he contributed to the bluegrass and country music program. Alongside his teaching, he has developed online guitar courses, finding his unique space in the digital realm of music education. Aaron's passion for music is matched by his dedication to helping others, as demonstrated by his involvement in the recovery community, providing inspiration and hope through his musical talents.

Episode Summary:

In this delightful episode of the Johnson City Living podcast, host Colin Johnson introduces us to Aaron Jackson, a musician and educator known for his diverse musical talent and dedication to enriching the cultural tapestry of Johnson City. Aaron shares his journey from being a young aspiring guitarist to establishing himself as a respected adjunct professor and online course creator.

From Aaron's early fascination with bluegrass and his move to Johnson City for its reputable bluegrass program at ETSU, to his experience playing in various bands and his shift to online teaching, the conversation unfolds with engaging anecdotes and heartfelt reflections. The episode dives into Aaron's life, revealing his passion for music, his dedication to teaching, and his triumphant struggles, including his personal journey through recovery and his commitment to giving back to his community.

Key Takeaways:

Aaron Jackson brings over two decades of diverse musical experience, with a deep appreciation for the culture and small-town feel of Johnson City, Tennessee.

His musical journey has taken him from playing bluegrass in the churches of East Texas to teaching guitar at ETSU and now to producing online guitar courses.

A dedicated educator, Aaron emphasizes the importance of empathy and patience when teaching music, whether in person or through digital platforms.

Aaron openly discusses his recovery journey, using his story and music to inspire and assist others through difficult circumstances.

With his shift toward digital education, Aaron continues to expand his outreach, harnessing platforms like YouTube and his website to share his knowledge and passion for bluegrass and country guitar.

Notable Quotes:

"What I think I like about it the most is this place has a lot of culture."

"It really does seem like [music] picks you."

Resources:

Aaron Jackson's Website: aaronjaxon.com

Instagram: @aajaxon

YouTube: Aaron Jaxon Guitar

Explore Aaron Jaxon's musical teachings and journey by delving into the full episode, and stay tuned for more compelling stories and insights on the Johnson City Living podcast. Your next inspiration could be just one play button away.