Jackson Guthy has been building a notable music résumé since he was a teenager. He first performed on a national stage as a 17-year-old in 2011 and soon joined major tours with Big Time Rush and One Direction on the Better With U Tour. After that run, Big Time Rush invited him back for the Summer Break Tour the following season. He then returned to television when an invitation came from Ellen DeGeneres to perform his track Roll. The momentum continued as he joined the I Wish Tour, sharing stages with Zara Larsson, Fifth Harmony, and Cher Lloyd across marquee cities in the United States and Canada. In parallel, Guthy has rolled out new singles like One of These Days and Bad Boy, keeping a steady stream of releases ahead of him. The kid’s career is moving fast, and there’s no sign of slowing down!
Details about Guthy’s journey highlight what it felt like to tour with Cher Lloyd and One Direction, to answer a call from Ellen, and to learn about his favorite surfing spot. The energy, the crowds, and the studio moments all weave into a portrait of a young artist who loves performing as much as he loves writing songs.
On being on the road with Zara Larsson, Fifth Harmony and Cher Lloyd during the I Wish tour: It’s awesome. This tour is super cool. It’s different from the Summer Break Tour with Big Time Rush but everyone is lucky to be out here doing it. Guthy has been on the road for about three months so nerves aren’t a big factor anymore. He recalls feeling a bit nervous at the start of the summer, but now the focus is on having fun and delivering the best performances possible.
On touring with Big Time Rush: They’re awesome dudes. He toured with them about a year and a half ago with One Direction, and that memory sticks. Entering the Summer Break Tour with familiarity made the experience feel natural and rewarding. It was a terrific opportunity, and he’s glad he got to be part of it.
On touring with the world’s biggest boy band right now, One Direction: He had brief chats here and there, but meeting them left a strong impression of their warmth and professionalism.
On the best advice he’s received: It’s his career and it won’t fall into his lap. It’s up to him to go out there and make it happen, keep believing despite the haters, and always strive to craft the best music possible.
On being invited by Ellen DeGeneres herself to perform on her show in 2011: That moment was unforgettable. The call felt electric, and the first live performance before millions marked a pivotal step in his journey.
On his sound: It’s pop, but he writes his own material, blending singer-songwriter sensibilities with modern beats and hip-hop influences. The result is a sound that may surprise some, yet feels true to everyday life and relatable experiences.
On his celebrity crush: Kendall Jenner.
On his amazing group of fans — the JackPack: The fans mean everything. Without them, a career doesn’t exist because they buy the music, show up for the shows, and keep the wheels turning. They’re the reason this journey is possible.
On his secret love for surfing: Surfing has been part of his life as long as music. He’s taken to Hawaii’s North Shore when time allows, chasing waves once or twice a year and letting the sea set the rhythm between gigs.
On his favourite songs that he has released to date: Roll and Brothers & Sisters stand out. Roll has a mellow, sly vibe, while Brothers & Sisters grew from a piano idea into a full studio track with a personal touch he particularly cherishes.
On the most played music on his iPod: His taste runs wide. He’s into The Weeknd’s latest, impressed by John Legend’s new release, and eagerly awaiting Justin Timberlake’s upcoming album. Take Back the Night by Timberlake and Best Song Ever by One Direction have both earned a loyal rotation.
On the upcoming release of his first EP, Launch: It’s slated to arrive soon, either later this year or next. People will get to hear it, and he’s genuinely excited about how it will be received.
Thank you, Jackson!