At only 19 years old, Jake Worthington has accomplished more than some artist dream of achieving over the course of their career. In 2014 Jake was named “Runner-Up” on Season 6 of the hit NBC TV Show The Voice. While on the show, Jake managed to release 2 songs that reached the Top 20 on Billboard Heatseekers. His cover of Richard Marx’s “Right Here Waiting” hit #14 & his remake of Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” went to #17. The 2 songs also reached the Top 15 on Billboard Country Top Digital Downloads. Perhaps the most impressive of these feats was when Jake’s rendition of the Bryan Adam’s hit song “Heaven” reached #3 on Billboard Country Top Digital Songs. I sat down and talked with Jake about what he’s been up to and about The Voice.
First off… where you from?
I grew up born and raised south east of Houston. I’ll probably live and die here in Texas. Couldn’t see myself living anywhere else.
I see you’ve been back in California recently. What brought you there?
It’s called Global Genes, a big benefit where a lot of doctors and people get together for rare diseases. Blood, cancer, kidney… all kinds of research for different rare diseases. Some of the diseases they don’t even have procedures to try and we try make it better for them folks.
So let’s ask… how was your time on The Voice?
I went to Reliant Stadium (in Houston) and sat all day long with my dad. I did the tryout and open call and I was fortunate enough, lucky enough and blessed enough that I was able to make it all the way through the process. It’s an experience that not many people can say they did…. It’s been a blessing. If it hadn’t been for that show I would have never seen the west coast and my family would have hardly left Texas. I’ve been able to go across this country because of that show and because of the people who have supported me and so on.
How far did you make it on the show?
I go number two (Runner up).
Who was your coach?
I went with Blake Shelton.
What were some of the things he talked to you about…. Are there some things you can’t say?
Haha…. Yeah… The coolest thing about him is that we would talk about music, obviously. I was very intrigued in his taste in music and what he listened to when he was home. After the show we’d go back to his trailer and hang out. We’d talk…. And other cool stuff…hahaha… He was a cool guy and never treated me unfair or wrongly. He’s also a busy business guy. Holy Crap. I couldn’t imagine doing what he does on a daily basis.
What are some of the things you’re looking forward to next?
I’ m really looking forward to putting out another EP. We did The Voice, then toured and I’ve learned a lot about the business. I’ve been trying to grow and put another step forward. I’ve got the best guys to run around with… I’ve been blessed to have a good group of fellows who want to eat tuna fish and canned chicken on the road. They put a lot of trust in me and that means a lot. That’s the best part about it. I can’t wait to get back in the studio and put out some songs.
Following the success from the TV Show Jake joined the other finalists on The Voice National Tour where they played some of the largest venues and arenas in some of the biggest cities in the country. Make sure to catch him live at Iron Horse Pub Friday October 28th with Blaine Gillespie opening.
by James Cook
