Tony Evans Jr. - Stockbridge, GA

#### Episode Summary

In this episode of the Peach Jam Podcast, host Jeremy Powell sits down with country musician Tony Evans Jr. from Stockbridge, Georgia. At just 24 years old, Tony shares his journey into music, starting from signing his first deal at 11 to finding his own unique brand of country music influenced by legends like George Strait and Keith Whitley.

#### Key Highlights

- **Early Beginnings:**

- Tony reflects on his early career, signing his first music contract at age 11 and performing at local venues like Eddie’s Attic and the Red Clay Theater.

- **Musical Influences:**

- Discusses how a mix of classic artists—from Michael Jackson to Nat King Cole—shaped his songwriting and perspective on relationships.

- **Maturity Beyond Years:**

- Despite his age, Tony's thoughtful approach to songwriting stems from deep reflections on love and relationships.

- **Family Matters:**

- Family plays a crucial role in Tony's life and music. He discusses the impact of his grandmother and the support from his father, who also manages his career.

- **Navigating Identity:**

- Addresses the complexities of being a Black artist in the country music genre, expressing both pride and the challenges that come with it.

- **Advice for Young Artists:**

- Encourages aspiring musicians to study the roots of their genre and develop their unique sound, emphasizing hard work and authenticity.

#### Musical Performances

The episode features live performances of Tony's original songs, highlighting his storytelling abilities and vocal talent.

#### Quotes

- "Family means absolutely everything. As a man, I have nothing without family."

- "I realized that... love and music isn't enough to do this career. You got to have something that really grounds you."

#### Where to Find Tony

- Follow Tony Evans Jr. on social media for updates on new music and upcoming shows.