Artist Spotlight: TJ Hooker-Taylor
Live at Denton Blues Festival 2025 September 20th!
Born into one of the most respected musical legacies in Blues and Soul, TJ Hooker-Taylor carries forward a tradition that runs deep. The son of legendary Blues and Soul recording artist Johnnie Taylor and singer Mary Ann Hooker, TJ was steeped in the rich traditions of gospel and soul from a young age, performing church music alongside his family in Kansas City.
By age 10, he had formed The Young Golden Voices, captivating church audiences throughout the region. At just 16, TJ founded the R&B group The Grand Jury Band, which quickly rose to become a #1 funk ensemble, sharing stages with acts like The Bar-Kays, Cameo, and Slave.
At 21, the unmistakable “Taylor Sound” began to emerge in TJ’s voice, and by 25, he stepped into his father’s world, experiencing firsthand what it meant when “The Blues hit me.” Since then, TJ has released independent projects including The Total Package, Your Babies Need A Daddy, and Taylorized—each one echoing the timeless artistry of Johnnie Taylor while carving his own path as a dynamic performer.
His latest project, Taylorized The 45’s, brings a fresh Southern Soul sound, blending tradition with innovation. With the help of collaborators like his Grand Jury bandmate Lo-Key? and production expertise from Flyte Tyme Productions, TJ Hooker-Taylor is carrying the torch forward while honoring the Taylor name.
Catch TJ Hooker-Taylor live at Denton Blues Festival Saturday night! This is a free, family-friendly event—bring your lawn chairs and experience the unforgettable voice and energy of a true heir to the Blues and Soul tradition.
