Note: Honky Tonk Spotlight is a feature on performers who play music in bars. These artists are very dedicated and hard working. They get very little to no radio airplay and don’t make a lot of money. Still, they do it for the love of music and performing. Honky Tonk Spotlight gives them a little bit of recognition.
I have known about Jake Maurer for years. He plays at the iconic Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in Nashville. One of the shows he does is on Saturday afternoon. I had the chance to stop in Tootsie’s again yesterday afternoon and watch him play again. One thing I enjoy about watching Jake play is he doesn’t just sing, he entertains. I’ve rarely seen a performer who can get crowds going in the middle of the day quite the way Jake can.
Jake is a great artist. He has a great voice, personality and stage presence. In addition, he has some great original songs. I’ve never understood why he’s not made it big yet. If I were an executive of a major record label, signing him would be a no-brainer.
Over the years, Jake has cemented his place in Nashville. He has a regular gig at one of the most famous honky tonks in the world a few days/nights a week. Tootsie’s will be packed any time he’s playing and he has developed a pretty massive following. There are people who make a point to see him play anytime they are in Nashville. There’s even some reviews on TripAdvisor recommending that people stop in to see Jake play. Even though he’s not playing arenas, he’s definitely made a name for himself and it is well deserved.
Rick Amburgey is an experienced journalist and country music fan. He can be contacted on Twitter at @ViewsCountry.