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Conversations with Jacob Barnett

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Barnett.

Hi Jacob, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I’ve been drumming my whole life; age 8 is when it all clicked for me, though whether it was my bed, my lap, the floor, or even a tambourine I made into a drum, I was always tapping on something. I never felt particularly talented at any time. I was ok in school but nothing special. Sports wasn’t my strong suit, and socially, I always felt a bit awkward and out of place. Drums were the first thing I enjoyed that I felt decent at. They have been a huge confidence builder for me growing up in a musical household. My back for drums was quickly exposed. I spent the next 9 years, from age 12 to 21, drumming for my father’s church. That church is what raised me from a musical standpoint. Everything I learned about how to play stemmed from the gospel songs I grew up hearing. In February 2022, I knew my life needed some redirection. I moved from Fayetteville, NC, to Knoxville, TN. Quickly after moving here, I met my now friend Patrick Corr who introduced me to an incredible guitarist named Jackson Elmore. Together 3 have formed a band, Jack&Coke. We have a lot of fun together; we’ve recorded two singles with another one on the way. We play a lot around town.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Although drumming is one of the most natural coming things to me, it’s still hard sometimes. I’ve struggled with figuring out my style and sometimes feeling stale. Life, especially in the last 4 years, has been crazy. From getting mixed in with some of the wrong things, a crazy car accident, and the tragic robbery I was a part of that resulted in the loss of a good friend of mine, all that to say, music, drums specifically, has always been something that no matter what is going on in life, I could always come back to.

Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
I’m creative at heart. Drums are my passion, but so many avenues of expression interest me. Whether playing music or watching it be played, the feeling from a groove is just one that can’t be beaten. One of the most freeing feelings is being completely lost in the music. Through my humble hometown roots, I’m proud to say I’ve recorded multiple songs with multiple others, and I’ve gotten to play with some amazing people for some amazing crowds here in Knoxville. I owe so much to Jack & Coke; since moving here, we’ve done some incredible things this year. Opening up for the Rocky Hill Christmas Parade was incredible, and recording the multiple singles we’ve done this year.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how essential God has been in every chapter of my life. Any success I’ve had or talent I’ve used is an absolute gift from God. I’m grateful He has blessed me with a talent that makes me genuinely happy using it.

Pricing:

  • Session/studio work $25.00/hr
  • Live Show $75 per set (can negotiate based on length of set)

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Brandin Dahl @knoxvillephotography

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