It’s been six years since Be Bossier has last spoken to bluesy Bossier Parish Native, Garrett Jacobs. When we last spoke, he was competing in American Idol and had made it to the Top 24. He went on to reach the Top 14 and has since relocated to Nashville, TN, where he is pursuing music full time!

“I am a signed songwriter at Sony Music Publishing, and I have been releasing my own music,” he explained. “I also landed a cut with Lee Brice and For King and Country titled, ‘Checkin’ In.'”

Since making the big move to Music City, Jacobs has been honing his sound and perfecting his songwriting skills. He’s also been hard at work on his first album, which he describes as his creative project so far. His writing process may vary from day to day, but it always starts with one idea. Whether it’s a song title, a melody, or even inspiration from an overheard conversation, he’ll quickly record a voice memo or jot it down in his notes. His ultimate goal? To make the listener truly feel what he’s singing.

“I’m wanting to blend Country music with the Soul and Blues/Rock I grew up listening to while I was in Louisiana,” he said. 

Throughout his time in the industry, Jacobs has learned a multitude of lessons. From making sure to love people first, to always being willing to collaborate, but most importantly, to staying true to himself. The dream of making music professionally is shared by countless aspiring artists, but Jacobs has found clarity in authenticity. 

“In my experience, I have found the best thing I can do to succeed is to be authentic to who I am and make music that stays true to that premise,” he explained. “There are thousands of people chasing the same dream I am, but there’s only one of me. With that mindset, it feels a lot easier to find my place in this industry because no one can be me and do what I do better than myself.”

With Louisiana Roots, Jacobs remembers growing up listening to a multitude of music genres that have since impacted the way he writes. From listening to different artists at the Red River Revel, he says there is no place like it. It’s also shaped his intentionality with how he treats others. There’s nothing like Southern hospitality. 

It’s safe to say that Jacobs is living his dream in Nashville. 

“Waking up in the morning and knowing I get to do what I love for a living is my favorite part about making music,” Jacobs said. “I’m thankful every day for the life I’ve been given and having the opportunity to chase this dream.” 

To any aspiring artist, Jacobs offers an encouraging word: You can do it. Though he once believed making music professionally might be out of reach, he’s turned passion and determination into a full-time career, creating music that resonates with people. He calls these gifts “God-given” and believes they allow him to create something special–something he describes as divine. 

“I will say it is nothing like the glamour it is painted to be, but it is so worth it,” he said. “Be prepared for adversity, and always be listening and practicing to become the best that you can be at whatever you do.”

Garrett Jacobs has never let the word, “no” get in his way and, we are Bossier Proud of him!!!

Photos courtesy of Garrett Jacobs