Texas native Jake Worthington is as country as they come, with fans praising him for helping keep traditional country music alive in an era dominated by pop-country crossover hits.
After his time competing on “The Voice,” season 6, Worthington has released heartfelt songs like “Not Like I Used To” and “When I Write This Song” and upbeat, fun country tunes like “It Ain’t the Whiskey,” easily drawing comparisons to legends like George Jones.
While Worthington’s stardom is certainly growing, he recently announced a hiatus from music to focus on his family.
Jake Worthington Announces Music Hiatus
GettyJake Worthington is taking a much-needed break from music and touring to prioritize his family and personal growth. In a statement on Instagram on Friday, May 22, the country artist shared that he needed to make more valuable time for his wife, Sophie, and their young daughter, Whitley Anne.
“I live a life as my heroes did, but that life has gotten a hold of me,” his announcement began. “I love my family and friends too much to let it take over me. I need to take some time to work on myself for my wife and daughter,” he added.
Worthington also noted that this isn’t the end of his music career, promising his fans, “I will come back even better,” ending his statement with: “God bless Country Music. JW”
According to Saving Country Music, Worthington had planned to open for Luke Combs on May 29 and May 30 in Montreal, and again on June 5 and 6 in Toronto. He was also scheduled to perform at two festivals in June and July and had a few concert dates in June, all of which have been removed from his website. However, his next scheduled performance is for July 24th at the Great Texas Mosquito Festival in Clute, TX, with appearances scattered throughout the summer, September, and October. These shows have not been removed from his site.
Country Artists Show Support For Worthington After Announcing His Break from Music
GettyWorthington received an outpouring of love and support from his fellow country artists after sharing his emotional statement about taking a break from music.
“La you bro! 👊,” Dierks Bentley wrote. “this takes a lot of courage. proud of you! 👏” Carly Pearce shared.
“Take care JW!,” former “American Idol” season 23 contestant Slater Nalley said. “You’re a heck of a man Jake! Will be praying for you!!” Will Banister shared. “I’m here for ya buddy. You are stronger than most,” Jake Owen wrote.
Fans also swarmed the comment section of his post, hoping that the singer would take all the time he needs for his family and himself.
“Takes a real man to admit and do something about it. We’ll be here when you’re ready ole-son!” A fan shared. “Your health is your wealth ❤️ you got this 🙌,” another said.
Worthington’s ‘The Voice’ Journey
GettyIn 2013, Worthington, then 17, auditioned for “The Voice” season 5, choosing to sing “Keep Your Hands to Yourself” by The Georgia Satellites. Unfortunately, he did not receive any chair turns but left with some helpful advice from coach Blake Shelton.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Worthington was back the very next season and during his blind audition, sang Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” Three judges, including Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, and Shakira, turned their chairs, and in no surprise, Worthington chose Team Blake.
Worthington made it all the way to the season 6 finale of “The Voice,” ultimately finishing as runner-up to Josh Kaufman. Still, his success on the show helped launch his country career, with Worthington going on to release two studio albums and singing on country’s most iconic stage, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, in 2023.
