There aren’t many bluegrass musicians born and raised in North Jersey, where you’re more likely to grow up as a disappointed Mets fan than a professional bluegrass guitar player. I was ten when I experienced my first festival, The Wind Gap Bluegrass Festival, and met some kids my age actually playing the music. It wasn’t long before I found my passion in the guitar and formed a group called Kickin’ Grass with these same kids that inspired me to play bluegrass. We were mediocre at best, but kids in bluegrass seemed to be a huge success for festival promoters, which lead to a decent touring schedule for a young band.
Kickin’ Grass sort of modulated into the group 2nd Edition, and a hobby slowly progressed into a decent summer job between college semesters. In 2002, 2nd Edition won the SPBGMA band contest and the bookings starting rolling in, making my attendance a challenge for some of my Economics classes. The following year was filled with life decisions as 2nd Edition made their last appearance on IBMA’s showcase stage. I also graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a B.S. in Economics and a B.A. in Management.
With full intentions of pursuing a career using my newly acquired education, I was a little nervous to find myself re-locating to Nashville, TN to join the Chicago based band Special Consensus. Within months, Special C was in the studio and I was playing and singing on a CD to be released on Pinecastle Records. I never had to sing lead before this studio experience and was pleasantly surprised when a song I wrote and sang was selected as the title track. Everything’s Alright released in March of 2005.
Song writing is always something I enjoy doing, especially with my life long friends from 2nd Edition. I co-wrote a hand full of songs with Alan Bartram, several with Mike Brubaker and a bunch on my own. With the help and advice of Greg Cahill, I was able to present these songs on a solo project, which also released on Pinecastle Records in September of 2005. Music business proves to be quite a challenge, leaving me proud to be able to leave my little mark on this unique and fulfilling genre.
Justin, it's so nice to see you following through and being awesome. So, is it "pick and pig, or pig and pick" (your line)? Classic. As I recall we did the barbecue thang (pig) first, and then picked.
I now have bluegrass digital downloads through Universal (iTunes, Amazon, etc.), and negotiated a new book contract with Mel Bay, even more jigs and reels, so I'm pumped. Next time you're across the pond, we'll have to pick, and I want to hear your new songs. Keep 'em coming bro and stay in trouble. You know what I mean. Keep writing.... Best to your mom and dad.
Hi Justin, How have you been? Hope you're having an awesome time in the UK and Ireland! Hey..."Never Let Go" is the featured CD on bluegrassradio. org. Pretty cool huh? Take care and hope to see you soon! Gold Heart :^D
Hi Justin, Happy Holiday to you Band.Looking forward to seeing you all in Naul,Ireland in Jan.Should I get some practice in just in case you guys need a mando player ? oops I forgot...probably no need !!
