Today we’d like to introduce you to Carly Jo Jackson.
Hi Carly Jo, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Orlando, Florida, in a creative, music-loving family where playing instruments and expressing ourselves was just part of everyday life. That environment sparked my love for music early on. I started out singing in chorus and playing in school band, then got more involved through music camps and extracurricular performing arts programs.
When I was 16, I got my first guitar and started playing local gigs around my hometown. That’s when I really fell in love with performing. While attending Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, I kept playing all over South Florida and eventually found myself performing in places like Tennessee, California, Texas, and more.
When I got to Austin, though, something clicked—I knew I had to stay. The energy of the music scene here felt like home, and I’ve been planting roots and having the time of my life ever since.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I always say that the life of a full-time musician is a roller coaster—but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. One of the biggest challenges for me has been staying consistent. In today’s music world, artists often have to take on the roles of manager, marketer, and even booking agent, which can make it tough to keep up with everything.
It’s easy to overwork yourself when music is your only source of income, so I’ve learned how important it is to take time to refill my cup. Whether that means resting, spending time with family, or heading out on a little nature escape, I make space to recharge. That way, I can continue showing up fully and meet each performance with focus and presence.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently play guitar and sing/songwrite as a solo musician and with my own band- called the Carly Jo Jackson Band. I’m also a singer/songwriter in a band called Konzi based out of Austin, Texas. I’ve been so lucky to be able to play shows all around the country and sometimes internationally! I specialize in providing the sound track for the good times. When people come to my shows, they can always expect bright energy and my signature raspy voice! I love having fun on stage, and I often interact with the crowd—it helps open up the room and creates a more personal vibe. I feel like it gives me a chance to really connect with the audience, and that connection is something I think sets me apart as a performer.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Something I’ve learned is that one of the most important parts of reaching your full potential as an artist is not comparing your work negatively to others. It’s essential to gather inspiration—whether from other musicians or the world around you—and let those influences shape your unique style. But at the end of the day, what you create is something only you can bring into the world. Your voice is the only one of its kind, and the world needs to hear it. I’m always still working on not being so hard on myself and what I make but I think that kind of thing is on the spectrum of self- love and it’s certainly an ongoing journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Carlyjojackson.com
- Instagram: Carlyjoofficial
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/carlyjoofficial
Image Credits
Photos by Alexis Jackson and Bailey Cavanah
