Justin White shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Justin , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Recently, it’s being a dad. It makes me the happiest. My daughter is 2 years old, she absolutely loves Halloween even though she has a tiny memory of it being barely 1, she loves it haha. That and Mickey Mouse. She fills me up like gasoline. Love you Sophia! Can’t wait to take you to Disneyland!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Justin Ray White, my band is The Turnaways, and it’s been my baby for over 10 years. It’s been the best journey writing music, booking my own tours, playing kitchens, living rooms, garages, to white oak music hall and the house of blues. It’s all I dream about every day and night. Currently writing an EP which I feel speaks to home and who I’m really about. Just an insider and also a separation from all the other stuff that’s out on Spotify, Apple Music, etc, at the same time.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Billy Hale. He’s managed bands, been on the road with ZZ Top, and is an absolute Texas legend. He has the best stories. Before I met him I was absolutely having fun with music, but with no direction. He’s the one who saw something in me to make me keep pushing for the right reasons. And to never give up.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, music changes every day to stay relevant. Especially guitar driven music. Look at the top 40 charts. Barely any bands. And social media, tik tok, etc, it’s almost like puzzle pieces and you’re just trying to figure out what works because you want it so bad and it’s so hard to get there. I’m lucky enough to have one of my best friends (Marshall) who’s our guitarist and hasn’t gave up with the identity of pushing through and wanting to do this for the rest of our lives.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Liam Gallagher.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I still do that till this day. Whether if it’s 1 person watching, or 500 people. I’m gonna make sure someone walks out of the venue with a melody stuck in their head. 100% full throttle high energy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @justinraywhite @theturnaways
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/turnaways
Image Credits
First 2 pictures: Robert Rose @regularrobert
3rd picture: @Shelbmathews (Houston Music Classifieds)
4th picture: @kel.newt.media
