The Aaron Jaxon Band, led by front man and founder Aaron Jackson, is headlining a concert with Brian Bowman on Feb. 1 as a means to bring awareness to area services devoted to helping those with alcohol and drug addictions. Through music and personal stories, these musicians will share their own struggles and their journeys toward recovery.
Jackson met Bowman in 2016 while in rehab for alcohol abuse at Magnolia Ridge Recovery in Johnson City, while Bowman was volunteering as a mentor. Bowman went through the program about six months before Jackson. During Jackson’s stay, Bowman often visited the facility and offered his experience, strength and hope to others struggling with addiction.
“Brian really understood me,” Jackson said. “He seemed to have a real inner peace about him. That’s something I wanted. Several people told me he played music. I thought, maybe that’s why I could relate to him.”
After Jackson got out of rehab, he was able to hear Bowman’s original music. “I was just blown away. The guy has an incredible voice.” The two continued to remain close, and attended each other’s performances.
Now, the two Johnson City-based musicians are teaming up for a concert to celebrate their battles and commemorate their fight against abuse as a way to share with others that recovery is possible, and that services are out there to help.
“There’s such a stigma out there, so a lot of people are scared to take the first step. But if they see us talking about it up on the stage, maybe it can let others who are suffering know they aren’t alone. That help is out there.”
While not all of the songs and stories shared that night will focus on the issue, the two have a lot to say about it, and a lot to celebrate. “We can now share our music without the aid of booze and drugs, and we’re having more fun than we ever thought possible,” Jackson said. Bowman recently auditioned for America’s Got Talent in Knoxville, TN. Contestants for the hit TV show will be announced in February.
Meanwhile, the Aaron Jaxon Band has become one of Johnson City’s most recognized, entertaining and praised live performances, with nearly 25,000 social media followers. From their renditions of iconic covers to playing home-grown originals, the Aaron Jaxon Band is one-of-a-kind staple of the Johnson City music scene. For more information contact Aaron Jackson at 423-914-1329 or online at Aaron@aaronjaxon.com .
