Jake Thistle - Dressed like Elvis and Johnny Cash

***1/2

Showcasing a new talent

Jake Thistle ***1/2, a twenty-one-year-old from Paramus and a top fourteen finalist on American Idol, discovered his love for music at just three years old, teaching himself to play guitar. By age nine, he was already performing in bars across New Jersey, showcasing a talent and determination far beyond his years.

At the CMA Kickoff event, Jake took the stage wearing black sunglasses and carrying a relaxed confidence. While he didn’t resemble Elvis Presley or even Johnny Cash, there was something about his smile that brought the music legend to mind. He really does look the part, and half the battle is that people need to like what they see. And I have to say, I really liked what I saw.

Combined with his natural stage presence and easygoing personality, Jake left a lasting impression on fans in attendance. And I think gained a lot of fans from playing the CMA Fest Kickoff event, and people will go and check him out again.