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The blues gets mislabeled as “music for older folks” until you hear a young artist explain where it really comes from.

In this episode, Bishop Wright has a conversation with Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jontavius Willis, a Georgia musician whose sound carries something old, something new, and something deeply personal. From his first performances in church to the way he learned by listening to records, he connects the dots between gospel roots, acoustic guitar grit, and the kind of storytelling that still feels like home. Listen in for the full conversation.

Come hear Jontavious and others at the Talbotton Blues Festival at Historic Zion Church on October 24, 2026. This all-day event will feature many artists, dance classes, sacred harp singing, gospel, harmonica sessions, and cultural talks. Learn more and get your tickets here.

Jontavious Willis is resolved in his mission: to reinvigorate today’s Blues with the spirit of the past. Inspired by a time when the Blues were plentiful and rhythm reigned supreme, Jontavious leverages his unique sound—a synthesis of his Georgia heritage and reverence for traditional Blues—to get the world dancing again. A Grammy-nominated musician and songwriter, Jontavious performs original, toe-tapping tunes in the style of Delta, Piedmont, Texas, and Gospel Blues. Dynamic vocals, technical prowess, and an abundance of Southern charm keep Jontavious sending jolts of vitality through the Blues community. Jontavious was born and raised in rural Georgia, an environment with deep cultural roots that provides the inspiration he has continuously drawn upon to create his unique sound. He spent much of his childhood singing Gospel music at the Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church with his grandfather, which provided him his first setting to perform for an audience. An early phenom, his passion for the Blues was sparked at age 14 when he came across a YouTube video of Muddy Waters playing “Hoochie Coochie Man.” He achieved widespread acclaim when living legend Taj Mahal invited Jontavious to accompany him onstage in 2015, with Taj describing him as his “Wonderboy.” Jontavious was invited to open for Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ during their joint TajMo tour in 2018, giving him an opportunity to present his work on a national stage.

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