Jack Aikens, born Feb. 12, 1979, was introduced music at an early age. Jack was instantly drawn to music as a small child the moment he watched black and white re-runs of “The Grand Old Opry“. Jack gives his brother credit for introducing him to bands such as Heart, Peter Frampton, Kiss, Bon Jovi, and ZZ Top. Having been exposed to a different type of music only fueled his passion for music even more. He was eventually drawn to the heavy powerful riffs that wailed from guitars in bands such as AC/DC, Metallica, and Ozzy Osbourne.
When Jack turned 15 he managed to scrape together just enough cash to get an old broken down "Sears Silvertone" guitar fixed and purchase a small amplifier. Jack’s natural talent and love for music lead him to teaching himself songs such as “You Shook Me All Night Long†by AC/DC and “Heart Shaped Box†by Nirvana. A friend of Jack’s taught him to play “Catch Scratch Fever†by Ted Nugent, “Seek and Destroy†by Metallica, along with a few other songs. However it was exposure to musicians like Steve Vai, John Coltrane, and Andres Segovia that prompted Jack to want to be able to perform music at a level of excellence attainable only through many years of study under the best teachers available.
Jack has dedicated his life to becoming a versatile musician acheiving a level of excellence attained by very few. Jack’s hard work and passion for music have led him to a lifestyle he enjoys. To date Jack is teaching at Tooter’s Music in Cleveland, TN in addition to Salt and Light Dance Studios in Sweetwater, TN and Boys and Girls Club of America’s "The Club" Teen Center in Madisonville, TN.
Jack’s style of teaching is a combination of all his talents. In his lessons, he teaches his students to read music and not to take the easy way out and merely read guitar tabs. Further, Jack teaches his students the proper techniques in playing the guitar, along with a clear understanding of the theories of music. If you or someone you know is interested in learning to play the guitar or bass you can call 423-519-8144.
Although all the above mentioned are extremely important, so are the students interest and abilities. Each lesson is specifically tailored to a students needs and desires. Whether a student is simply trying to learn to play the guitar for enjoyment, a hobby, or wanting to become a career musician, Jack Aikens has a method and the skills to meet every student's needs.
When Jack is not teaching, he is performing! Jack’s talents have been showcased in the following:
Private parties and restaurants
Riverbend Festival 2008 ( http://www.riverbendfestival.com ) in Chattanooga, TN.
The Monroe County Relay for Life Fundraiser with vocalist/guitarist Chris Williams at Hiwassee College in Madisonville, TN
American Legion Bandstand in Sweetwater, TN performing with songwriter Perry Devine (http://www.perrydevine.com)
The Celebration an American Red Cross Fundraiser featuring headlining act Doyle Tallent hosted by the First United Methodist Church in Sweetwater, TN.
Knoxville Bands Together a benefit for the victims and families of the TVUUC shooting at the Valarium in Knoxville, TN.
Jack is embarking a new journey in his musical endeavors by releasing his first vocal debut. Up to this point Jack has been keeping his versatile voice under lock and key. However, after allowing a select few the pleasure of hearing him sing, and receiving positive feed back, he has decided to release “Follow Me Down“ as the first ever track to showcase his vocal talents as well as his mastery of the guitar.
While awaiting Jack’s vocal debut be sure to check out his solo acoustic instrumental album "Sonorous," an independent release, which can be purchased by sending an email to [email protected] or calling 423-519-8144.
Coming soon!
Tracks by songwriter/vocalist/guitarist Chris Williams feat. Jack Aikens on guitar!
DVD copies of the Summer 2008 performances!
Bio written by: Rachel Ann Scott October, 2008
For Booking Please call: 423-519-8144
To Hear Some of the Instrumental Stuff I've Been Doing Lately Check Out:
To Purchase Ringtones of any of the music you have heard here please use the links below:
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