JD Hobson

If there is one word that sums up JD Hobson, it would be “authentic,” not just because JD’s family lineage links him directly to the heart of Virginia Appalachian folk and blues tradition, but also because his music comes directly from the heart. Imagine the fluid finger picking of Mississippi John Hurt with the high lonesome sound of Hank Williams, Sr. and a dash of young Bob Dylan. His original songs distill these flavors into something truly unique yet rooted in the genuine American tradition.  

Hobson’s family on his dad’s side has been living in the Piedmont Appalachian area of Virginia since colonial times and both the black and white traditions are reflected in not just his family heritage, but also his musical stylings. From Delta and hill country blues to country folk and Americana, it’s all reflected in his personal musical melting pot.  

Demonstrating his strength as a songwriter, JD’s last album, “Where the Sun Don’t Shine” did well on the international charts, placing at #8 on the Freeform American Roots Chart and #26 on the Roots Music Report chart and leaving audiences eagerly awaiting his upcoming sophomore effort. 

“Where the Sun Don't Shine is a wonderfully assured album, with what can only be described as a flawless salvo of opening tracks.” -Leicester Bangs Magazine 

When JD embarked on his first overseas tour this past summer, his soul-stirring renditions of familiar favorites as well as his repertoire of original tunes endeared him to audiences across the UK. Wowing audiences at venues like the venerable Green Note in London and the Maverick Festival in Suffolk, he showed why he is such a rare talent and a star on the rise. 

“This music is about reaching down deep and coming up with something authentic and timeless. The trials, sadness, and triumphs of people here in America continue on today, only dressed in different clothes. Times have changed, but we inherit the blues.” – JD 

In his youth, he was exposed to Blues and Roots music constantly on the radio, but it wasn’t until he had a chance to study with some of the remaining greats (John Cephis, David Honeyboy Edwards, etc.) at a Country Blues workshop in Port Townsend, WA that things crystalized for him and the spark that happened there ignited a passion for American roots music that has burned ever since. 

“Hobson's brand of bluesy Americana is steeped in rich outlaw tradition. His latest blends originals and covers seamlessly, making it hard to tell which are which, and that's a compliment.” -Seattle Weekly Reverb Magazine

Awards/Nominations: 
Two-time winner of the South Sound Blues Associations Back to Beale Street solo/duo competition. 

Nominated by the Washington Blues Society members for Best of the Blues award in the best solo/duo category.