These are just a few titles that Aaron Myers, DC-based jazz musician, has claimed. His life story is far from typical. Myers is originally from Goodlow, Texas. He discovered his love for performing as a youngster while playing in the church’s music. Later, he chose the piano to be his instrument of choice. His unique baritone voice, captivating personality and unrivalled stage presence make him one the most exciting jazz performers. Aaron joined the United States Army as a young man. He served two years in that unit before enrolling at Navarro College, where he studied theater and business. Aaron ran for Mayor in Corsicana while he was at Navarro. Myers lost a close-fought election but decided that advocacy and politics would still play a significant role in his life. Aaron left college to go west to Los Angeles, where he experienced the life of a professional entertainer. He was the featured artist at Fashion TV’s 10th Anniversary Party. He also served as a music supervisor for the film “A Song and a Prayer.” In ministry, he was both the assistant to West Angeles Church of God in Christ’s Youth Pastor and the youth department musician. His gospel roots are still very much alive. Aaron felt the need for a change after a life-changing accident that nearly cost him his right hand. He joined the Obama Campaign for Change as a Field Organizer in Texas and Florida in 2008. There, he discovered his passion for community organizing and engagement and worked his way back to playing shape. He moved to Washington D.C. after the campaign ended. There he developed his advocacy skills and established himself as a well-known musician in the lively Jazz City. Aaron arrived in Washington D.C. immediately and began organizing spaces for live performances. He was Resident Artist at Black Fox Lounge for five years, produced over 150 shows, and is currently Resident Artist at Mr. Henry’s Restaurant on Capitol Hill. As an activist, he remained strong and served as the National Director of the now defunct Global Family Program, which was headed by Linda Grover. He also continued to be active with the DC Young Democrats, and he helped form the DC Jazz Lobby, which in 2016 focuses on arts and music policy issues at both the local and federal levels. He is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQI Rights and Mental Health. He is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation and the Board Secretary of Crittenton Service of Greater Washington. He is a member on the CTE Vision Foundation’s board of directors and Covenant Full Potential Development Center. He has been a leader of the DMV Music Stakeholders group during the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic. They share resources, offer assistance, and advocate for the community’s needs to strengthen and preserve Washington’s music industry. Myers has had many performance, festival, and hosting opportunities in his long career as a musician. He has played at many DC events, including the 50th anniversary of the Peace Corps and the National Legal Aid.
