As a toddler, Mr. Jacks was immersed in a colorful soundscape created by phenomenal artists such as Al Green, Earth, Wind, and Fire, and the Modern Jazz Quartet. His musical ability began to quickly assert itself and by age 12, the trombone was his preferred method of expression.
While in high school he studied with several trombone virtuosi including: Mark McConnell (Atlanta Opera), Stephen Wilson (Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), and Scott Hartman (Empire Brass). This trifecta healped him develop exquisite technique and a uniquely captivating sound, Mr. Jacks began to quickly distinguish himself with many high musical honors. Upon graduation, he received the Louis Armstrong Award for Jazz and was inducted into Who's Who in Music.
In 1991, he was commissioned as both a composer and guest soloist for the World Premiere of "Beyond the Canebreaks: Moments in the Life of Harriet Tubman," performed by The Harry Bryce African American Dance Theatre in Atlanta. Mr. Jacks toured briefly with the Theatre, then enrolled at the University of Georgia where he studied Classical Music Performance under the legendary Dr. Philip Jameson. He later left the university to make inroads into the Music industry.
For almost ten years, Mr. Jacks was trombonist for Rohi Productions in their presentation of "King of Glory," an off-Broadway stage play about the birth, life, and death of Jesus Christ. That tenure ended in 2008 when the play went on hiatus. More recently, he's contributed his musical talents to DK Productions in their stunning remake of James Baldwin's classic play "The Amen Corner". But when not playing backstage or accompanying Gospel notables Darwin Hobbs or Vickie Yohe, Mr. Jacks keeps up his mainstream ties by working with such icons as P.J. Morton (Urban Contemporary), Hott Soss (Blues), and Angie Stone (Neo-Soul). He also plays cutting-edge events, such as the SEC Football Championship Game Luncheon and the hair care industry's premiere platform, The Bronner Bros. International Hair Show.
Currently, Mr. Jacks continues to tour with DK Productions, as well as perform periodically with corporate groups such as Party Nation, and The Capitol City Xpress. Future plans include expanded songwriting/arranging endeavors and a solo, Urban Soul, project to be released July 2013.
