First, we’re excited to drop the first episode of the GCMG Podcast — a show that puts our local musical talent center stage. Hosted by Matt Kelly, founder of GCMG, the podcast is our way of serving the Scenic City music scene through in-depth interviews, special events and tips to help our local musicians thrive.
We’re honored to be joined by Adam Stone, founder of the Chattanooga Jazz Fest, who invites us to a celebration of the Jazz arts Sunday, October 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., at the Chattanooga Choo Choo. He and Matt talk the past, present and future of the Chattanooga music scene in this episode of the GCMG Podcast.
About Adam Stone
Adam Stone is an award-winning guitarist and composer based in Chattanooga whose sound lives at the crossroads of jazz, blues, rock, and funk. Inspired by the innovative spirit of Herbie Hancock, the soul of Stevie Wonder, and the melodic storytelling of James Taylor and Pat Metheny, Adam crafts music that speaks to both the heart and the head. With a sound that bridges genres while staying grounded in the Southern spirit. His artistry on guitar, bass, keys, and vocals showcases not only versatility, but a genuine commitment to musical storytelling.
Whether he’s laying down smooth grooves or pushing the edge of improvisation, Adam’s playing invites listeners into a space where passion, deep emotion, and familiarity meet. His compositions carry threads of humor and peace, weaving together complex harmonies and intricate rhythms with a grounded, deeply human feel.
Adam was born in Chattanooga and grew up enthralled by the sounds and soul of southern music, from a very young age he was drawn to bands like The Allman Brothers, Lynard Skynard, and Little Feat. As he got older his attention was captured by the otherworldly sounds of progressive rock/fusion groups such as Yes, Return to Forever, and Haken. This transition fostered a deep appreciation for densely crafted intelligent music that still speaks to the soul.
He spent his high school and college days in school practice rooms, always working on music for marching, symphonic, and jazz bands. He graduated high school in 2012 winning the Louie Armstrong Jazz Award, and later went on to win Chattanooga’s Road to Nightfall Best Guitarist in 2017 after studying music theory/composition at The University of Chattanooga. Since then he has formed several original bands of his own, namely Over Easy, Le Gato, Et Cetera, while
also crafting songs for his solo work.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamstone_music/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adam.stone2/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@adamstone_music
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/2vVfqNagBogVQCIAvBbRmr?si=8f8518e759484c2b
About the Chattanooga Jazz Fest
“Our Mission is to represent the diverse jazz, blues, and funk artists we have right here in Chattanooga.
We aim to continue to enrich our community and support our musicians by amplifying their talents and musicianship through local live music events, partnerships with local arts focused non-profit organizations, and educational initiatives.
The Chattanooga Jazz Fest is programmed almost exclusively by local jazz musicians that proudly call Chattanooga our home.”
Website: https://www.chajazzfest.com
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/2024353068393410
