Justin Tibbs

Acclaimed saxophonist Justin Tibbs makes waves in Northeast Ohio’s vibrant music scene with dynamic performances and innovative projects. A native of Akron, Tibbs has established himself as a versatile and expressive performer, captivating audiences with his signature sound.

Since 2010, he has been a professional musician, delivering electrifying performances across the region. He leads three standout projects: JT’s Spark Trio, JT’s Electrik Blackout, and The Bourbon Sour Quartet, each bringing a unique blend of jazz, funk, and experimental sounds to the stage.

In addition to his original projects, Tibbs has collaborated with artists including Ryan Humbert, Angie Haze, Tommy Lehman, Smokeface, Mike Weber, Benny Lava & The Guavas, Free Black!, The SpeedBumps, Bethany Joy, Mr. Chair, and Acid Cats. His talent has also placed him alongside members of The Canton Symphony Orchestra and The Akron Symphony Orchestra, further showcasing his versatility across musical genres.

Tibbs’ performances have graced prestigious venues and events in the region, including The Rubber City Jazz and Blues Fest, Porch Rokr, Hello Akron concert, John Brown House Sweet Sounds of Equality Concert, Canton Symphony Divergent Series, The Summit’s 330 Day, EarthQuaker Devices Sessions, EarthQuaker Day, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Lock 3, and The Knight Center Zenith Awards. He has also made television and radio appearances on NBC’s Channel 3: Good Company Morning Program, PBS’ Idealstream, Summit FM Studio C Sessions, WKSU’s Shuffle, and Fox 8 in the Morning. Justin was voted Best Jazz Musician in Akron Life Magazine 2024 & 2025.

With a passion for pushing musical boundaries and dedication to his craft, Justin Tibbs continues to leave an indelible mark on the Ohio music landscape. Fans can catch him live at upcoming performances and experience his engaging, soul-stirring saxophone artistry firsthand.

Gear

Soprano Sax
Yanagisawa S901
Rafael Navarro or Syos original Steady mouthpiece 8
​Magatone Bronze
Reeds Rigotti classic 3M

Alto Sax
Selmer Mark VII
D'Addario Jazz Select Alto
Bonade Ligature
Reeds Rigotti Jazz 3M

Tenor Sax
Yanagisawa T902 Pink Gold Neck
Aaron Drake Contemporary I
Rovner Star w/Boosters
Reeds Rigotti Wild 3.5

Microphone
Nux B-6 Wireless Mic
Canvas Passive Re-Amp
Canvas Line Isolator / D.I.

Pedaltrain Boards:
Nano+
​Metro 20
Classic

Justin is an artist for Earthquaker Devices & Barefoot Buttons. Currently, his pedalboards are:

Classic Board
EQD Tone Job                                              
EQD Speaker Cranker
EQD Sea Machine
EQD Rainbow Machine
EQD Dispatch Master X2
EH Pitchfork
EH Neo Mistress or EQD Spatial Delivery 

Metro 20
EQD Tone Job 
EQD Speaker Cranker
​EQD Sea Machine
EQD Dispatch Master X2
EH Pitchfork

Loopers
TCE DITTO Looper
Donner Looper

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