JD Clayton – Thursday, March 23, 2023
JD Clayton is the epitome of a Real Deal. Fort Smith’s own rising star proffers no glitz and no pretense. Clayton is simply a guy who has things to say and does so clearly and without clutter–but with an earnest and tuneful sensibility that makes listening to his songs as easy as sitting in the cool breeze on your front porch. Clayton’s songs have a directness and clarity that are the hallmarks of a genuine craftsman, someone who’s studied and practiced and chased different paths to end up where he is now. And it’s not without grand ambition. He’s striving to be one of the greats, and he fully understands the diligence and dedication it will take to get there.
After graduation from UAFS, Clayton met Nashville producer Thomas Dulin, and in 2018 the two collaborated on his debut EP, Smoke Out the Fire. “It was a pivotal moment for me,” he says, “because I finally had music I wrote and recorded, from start to finish.”
Clayton relocated to Music City in order to capitalize on his upward trajectory, just before COVID. Although the music business was hurting, Clayton used the time to develop an ear for other styles including music from The Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. “I was enamored by the production choices and musicality of those records and I began to develop an ear for that sound.” Although Nashville had urged him to change his style; more Nashville Broadway strip and less Arkansas river – it never felt authentic. “Arkansas is the natural state, and I enjoy making music that feels natural and organic,” he explains. “Production needs to be basic and simplistic with a focus on the story and the song.”
Today Clayton has been successful taking his intimate and impactful songs to audiences all over the country. “This has already been such a journey,” Clayton reflects. “I can’t wait to see what’s around the bend.”
jdclaytonofficial.com For Press Interviews: JD’s publicist is Jim Flammia – jim@alleyesmedia.com
Tickets available online for $52.50 at www.AACLive.com
For more information Contact:
Rob Goodfellow
AACLive!
479-285-0067
rgoodfellow@att.net
