Jason Petty
"Jason Petty...has flat-out got the music nailed. Two hours of entertainment that will be a drive down memories highway for many and an education about the intertwining roots of country music for everyone."
— Bristol Herald Courier
Step back in time and experience the music, stories, and spirit of one of country music’s most influential pioneers as acclaimed performer Jason Petty brings the legendary Hank Williams to life. Widely recognized as the foremost interpreters of Williams’ music and legacy, Petty delivers an unforgettable performance that captures the heart, soul, and authenticity of the man whose songs helped shape the sound of American music. This is not a tribute show in the traditional sense. It is storytelling and while Jason dresses the part, he is 100% Jason Petty at all times.
What sets his productions apart is the authenticity. Petty combines historical insight with outstanding musicianship to create shows that feel both educational and entertaining. Through compelling narration and expertly performed songs, he paints a vivid portrait of a man whose brief but brilliant career left an indelible mark on American culture. Jason’s touring shows are about the history of country music, and he believes that the stories behind the artists and songs are just as important as the songs themselves. He believes this gives the audience greater appreciation and admiration for the artists and their impact on people's lives.
Jason started as an actor and has grown into a singer, songwriter, director and playwright. When he was asked to perform on the Grand Ole Opry, he was introduced to that hallowed stage by the King of Country Music, Roy Acuff. Jason had been portraying Hank Williams at Opryland in a show called 'Country Music USA' and in the fall of 1995, Jason was asked to do a reading of a play about Hank Williams for the Ryman Auditorium. He was hired on the spot, and 'Lost Highway' ran for 2 years at the Ryman Auditorium. During this two-year run, Jason met and became friends with many of Williams old musicians and friends. Don Helms (1927-2008), member of the Drifting Cowboys (Hank William Band) shared, "I played with Hank for many years and I was his best friend. No one in my time has come closer to Hank’s look, sound and natural charisma than Jason. He’s the best, Hands down!”
After a national tour and a few regional theatre productions of 'Lost Highway', Jason was hired for a 6-week in 2002. The reviews were off the charts, and the run was extended for another 7 months, and Jason was awarded the coveted Obie Award for his performance.
After seven years touring with 'Lost Highway', Jason decided to write a show based on all the people he met and befriended who knew Hank. Some of those included Grand Ole Opry stars, musicians and friends and family of Williams. That first show was 'Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes.” Jason gathered many stories and was asked to write a book...but instead decided to write shows honoring those grand legends of country music and their songs.
Available touring programs include:
100 Years of Hank Williams Jason re-creates such Williams' hits as "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry", "Your Cheatin' Heart", "Hey Good Lookin'’ and many more. The show is far more than a Hank Williams tribute show. Jason pays tribute to the stars that influenced Hank and those stars that Hank influenced. "100 Years of Hank Williams" will make you smile; make you cry and have you clapping your hands and stomping your feet with excitement. Show options include solo, trio or quartet.
Classic Nashville Roadshow Jason Petty takes you back in time on a musical journey through the magnificent history of country music...its stars, its songs and the stories that made them great. A live, authentic Nashville band and a period set, and costumes help bring the legendary songs back to life in this fast-paced, humorous and poignant tale of the music that became the soundtrack to several generations. George Jones, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash and many more are featured in this wonderfully acclaimed production. In the wake of Ken Burns' film, Country Music, this show seamlessly walks through the 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's and 80's country music legends
Classic Nashville Christmas It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year... Country Music Style! Jason Petty and his Classic Nashville Roadshow cast bring you the greatest collection of country Christmas songs and the stories behind them. An authentic period set is decorated and ready for the season. From Grandpa Jones to Alan Jackson and Brenda Lee to Elvis Presley, Classic Nashville Christmas will make your holidays brighter! Cast size is 6.
Country Royalty: Hank & Patsy The two biggest legends of country music on the same stage at the same time...Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. Jason Petty is joined by renowned vocalist Gail Bliss who gives a jaw-dropping performance as Patsy Cline. The first half is Jason Petty storytelling and performing. The second half is Patsy Cline with Jason narrating her story. Cast size is 7 and instrumentation includes fiddle, pedal steel guitar, piano, bass, drums and vocals.