October 18th, 2024

BRIAN JACK

By: Shelley McKinley, Ed.D.

Brian Jack, CEO and Owner of Brian Jack Produc-tions, LLC was born and raised in Dayton, Texas. Music seems to be his birthright since he watched and studied other family members as they per-formed in their zydeco and gospel bands and later picked up the accordion without any formal training. His mother is from Lebeau, LA and his father is from Barrett Station with roots in Elton and Washington, LA so time spent with extended family in Texas and Louisiana gave Brian the opportunity to learn how to play the guitar at 14 years old. Taught by his uncle in Louisiana, who played in zydeco bands, and his uncle in Texas who had his own gospel group, Brian stated, “I got lessons from both uncles. I got lessons in Lebeau in the summertime from my mother’s brother and lessons from weekend to week-end from my father’s brother in the Crosby area.”

On a trip to Baytown for boudin, Brian’s Godmother bought a toy accordion for her grandchildren, however they never played with them. “I asked my mother, ‘do you think she’ll give it to me?’ because I’m looking at a toy but once I fooled around with it, it was tuned and had the buttons and played like a real instrument,” explained Brian. His Godmother gave him
that toy accordion and within a few days Brian had learned several songs. Th at motivated him to continue to learn how to play the accordion.

ow to play the accordion.
While still a guitar player in the family band, they had a show at Ellington Field and Brian’s cousin realized that he left his accordion at home. He went back to get it, but was not back by show time. Brian said, “Well I got my little toy with me, so we put the little toy on the micro-phone and we played some instrumental songs. My uncle sang a few songs that I knew until my cousin got back with his accordion.” Even though he got back on guitar that night, the experience motivated him to stick with the accordion.  Brian saved his money to buy his first real accordion in Louisiana the next summer. “My uncle who taught me guitar took me to the local music store where they sold accordions and that’s how I got my first accordion.” His love for the accordion took over and in 1994 he started his own band now known as Brian Jack and the Zydeco Gamblers. He is known for hits like “Pretty Face, Ugly Ways”, “Gotta Be Me” and “Good Good Lovin’” just to name a few.
Zydeco has always been a fun, upbeat, uplifting kind of thing for Brian. “Trail riding and zydeco are cultural and about family. I write trail ride-driven songs. I don’t really write songs from real life experiences,” stated Brian. Th e music is for the culture and passed from generation to generation. “I always say I’m Brian Jack from Low Woods, TX!” Brian is known to be a jack of many trades. In 2012 he decided that he want-ed to spearhead his own marketing so he picked up the camera and taught himself the photography business. He now owns a successful Professional Photography business, Brian Jack Vision that was founded in 2020. “My brother is a photographer, and I started calling him to do promo shots for me. I think I started calling him too much,” laughed Brian. Brian’s brother, Eugene Jack Jr., told him what camera to buy and gave him pointers to get him started.

It was during a show at Jack’s Grill that Brian met his future wife, Jenna. “I don’t think she knew who I was, I was still up and coming then,” shared Brian. They are happily married and have three children, Christopher, Carter and Brianna. Brian is also a dynamic studio engineer and owns Rock da House Studios of Humble, TX, where he has released several studio albums. His music can be found on all digital streaming platforms.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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