` Jimmy Maddox: Artist Profile


As a young man growing up in coastal Georgia, Jimmy Maddox's influences were like those of many southern musicians: country, R&B, gospel, jazz and rock & roll. But while other young people were listening to The Beatles and Rolling Stones, Jimmy found himself captivated by Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino and especially Ray Charles. "The first time I heard a Ray Charles recording I was stunned. In some ways I'm still stunned," Jimmy admits. Armed with these influences the young Georgian performed in numerous bands and continued his musical education.
Teaming with lyricist Bobby Hanson, Jimmy co-founded the Savannah based JoJa Band. "We were the thinking man's southern rock band," Jimmy recalls. Mixing lush ballads and jazz rhythms with lowdown blues and country harmonies, this effort culminated in two critically acclaimed albums.
Then came a sudden move to Richmond, Virginia. "I think every artist should relocate at least once. It forces you to get off your laurels and grow."