We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan J River Simpkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jordan J River, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and then moved to Canton, Ohio with my parents at a young age. There, I was surrounded by my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Being around my family on a daily basis really molded me into the person I am today. It taught me how to love those around me. My parents made sure to keep me rooted in church and until this day I am a “Church Boy”. Being in the church I learned the tools of my trade that I still use today. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have worked with many artist and musicians from all genres and walks of life. It is very difficult being able to transition from gospel to hip hop to jazz to classical to pop etc. but I manage it by constant refreshing of my talent and continuing to educate myself in music. I direct a church choir and band, I mange a recording studio, and produce music for myself and other artists. Prior to the pandemic I hosted “Hip Hop Church” at Emmanuel Christian Center which was a service for youth and young adults. Other events that I produce that I am passionate about are car shows, dance offs, and women and men’s conferences. I am an artist with a heart after God. I have ministered nationwide to youth and adults. I was birthed for such a time as this. Through music my message will reach this generation to let them know that Jesus is the answer and that no matter what is going on in their lives they can overcome. I use my unique style and outgoing attitude to draw people close.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I definitely would have to show them some of the beautiful nature that Colorado has to offer. I would love to take them on a train ride up to the mountains, on an ATV ride, tubing, ziplining, and on a hike at Red Rocks. I would also take them to some of my favorite restaurants: Texas de Brazil, Red Robin, the Lost Cajun, and Perry’s Steakhouse. I’m a free spirit so most days I would just wing it and take them wherever the day led us.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been so many people who have helped me get to where I am today! I would like to shoutout my parents Carmel and Alvin Simpkins for encouraging me, loving me, and providing me with the tools I needed to create my music. My Aunt Karen and my Uncle Rick who have always given me great feedback and lots of love. My mentors: Pastor Ken Johnson, Pastor Van Brown, Pastor Lee Hall, and Pastor Kyle Speller; each one of these men of God has poured priceless wisdom and knowledge into me and for that I am thankful. My friend and photographer Zsa’nee Gaines who recommended me for this interview; thank you for believing in me. And last but not least my beautiful wife Tolisa. She has been my ride or die since we were teenagers. She has always supported my vision and done what she could to help me move forward. To all of my family and friends thank you all so much for your love and support through the years!

Website: https://www.reverbnation.com/jordanjriversimpkins
Instagram: https://instagram.com/j_river_man?igshid=1u5m33f4e94bb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jriver4443/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYwrV26EmY79KFg6DG3ReMw
Other: https://www.n1m.com/jordanjriversimpkins https://linktr.ee/Jriver4443

Image Credits
Kymora Jaxson Photography

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