Jacksonville, AL –The energy was palpable on the stage at Jacksonville State’s Pete Mathews Coliseum during the sold-out ROC On Benefit Concert Thursday evening. In the midst of stellar performances by legendary country musicians Randy Owen, Riley Green along with Gordon Mote, a momentous announcement was made: Jamey Johnson is one of the greatest country music performers, will launch an annual music program at the school.
It is known as”the Jamey Johnson Music Series this initiative, which is led by the singer himself will provide educational and artistic possibilities to JSU students. From thrilling concerts by musicians who are visiting to stimulating class discussions songs, workshops for songwriting, and seminars, the program seeks to improve JSU’s educational and musical scene.
The excitement lasted into the early morning hours of Friday, when Jacksonville State University prepared to confer an honorary doctorate on Jamey Johnson at its 10:00 a.m. graduation ceremony in Pete Mathews Coliseum. It is noteworthy that Johnson will also take to the stage to speak at the commencement ceremony which will add another accolade to his long and illustrious professional career.
The show, which took place on Thursday night, was a one-night only event on JSU’s Stone Center, which benefited scholarships for students and the forthcoming Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts (The Rock) included Johnson along with Randy Owen, Riley Green as well as Gordon Mote. The Emceed was Billy Bubba Bussey of the Rick and Bubba Show, all of the performers bared their past as the former JSU students.
Jamey Johnson’s association with Jacksonville State University dates back to 1993 when he attended and received a scholarship award to play mellophone with the Marching Southerners while studying music education. After serving for eight years in the Marines Johnson made the decision to move to Nashville and was able to secure an agreement to write songs. He signed his first contract in 2005. Johnson made his initial record deal, which marked the beginning of an incredible career.
With 11 Grammy nominations, and the honor of receiving the two Song of the Year Awards from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association, Johnson’s influence on the world of country music is unquestionable. His admission to the Grand Ole Opry in 2022 further established his position in the pantheon of country music.
The creation of the Jamey Johnson Music Series as well as the award of an honorary doctorate from Jacksonville State University mark yet another chapter in the musician’s long-standing commitment to music education as well as his school of choice.
