Aristotle Jones named as a
2026 UNITED STATES ARTISTS FELLOW

About Aristotle

Aristotle Jones: The Appalachian Soul Man

Aristotle Jones is a celebrated singer-songwriter and storyteller dedicated to the evolution of Appalachian Soul. Based in the heart of West Virginia, Jones blends the grit of the coal mines with the smooth, rhythmic energy of Mountain Doo-Wop, Soulful Folk and classic Rhythm & Blues. Known as "The Appalachian Soul Man," he has become a cornerstone of the Mid-Atlantic music scene, bridging the gap between traditional storytelling and modern regional music.

A Modern Legacy of West Virginia Music

Growing up in a region rich with heritage, Aristotle was deeply influenced by the "Mountain Doo-Wop" sound—a unique intersection of soulful vocal harmonies and the rural acoustics of the Appalachian Mountains. His music reflects the diverse cultural landscape of the Mountain State, moving beyond traditional bluegrass to highlight the soulful, funky, and often overlooked "urban" sounds of the hills.

Storytelling Through Song

Whether performing at major festivals, regional theater houses, or intimate West Virginia music venues, Aristotle Jones delivers more than just a setlist; he delivers a narrative. From his acclaimed project The Streets of Osage to his high-energy live performances with his band, his work explores themes of family, heritage, and the resilience of the Appalachian spirit.

Bookings and Performances

As a versatile West Virginia artist, Aristotle Jones is available for:

Festival Main Stages (Appalachian, Folk, Soul and R&B)
Storytelling Workshops and Cultural Education
Private Event Bookings and Regional Touring

Appalachian Soul Man, Aristotle Jones gains national recognition: USA Fellows are selected based on their artistic visions, unique perspectives within their fields, and potential for the award to make a significant impact in their practices and lives. Each year’s cohort reflects the current cultural and societal moment, honoring a plurality of voices from diverse backgrounds and often-overlooked experiences, identities, and perspectives. READ MORE

OFFICIAL
APPALACHIAN SOUL BRANDED MERCH!!!

GET THE GOOD TONE:
OFFICIAL REVEREND GUITAR ENDORSED ARTIST

Official Reverend Guitar Endorsed Artist Badge - Aristotle Jones

WATCH NOW:
STREETS OF OSAGE
OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Two Men, Aristotle Jones and Al Anderson sitting on a bench in front of a Shoe Repair shop. Aristotle is wearing a blue shirt and black pants and holding a guitar. Al Anderson is wearing a black shirt that reads Osage West Virginia, and blue pants

The combination of Aristotle Jones’s smooth, mellow voice and his warm acoustic guitar is at the heart of this personal and soulful ballad. The accompanying video for ‘Streets of Osage’, created by William Walker Films, takes the viewer on a trip to Scott’s Run Annual Street Fair in Osage, WV and the Scott’s Run Museum and Trail. We get a charming glimpse of life in Jones’s home town as he sings alongside Rock n' Soul Singer and town historian, Al Anderson. It’s delightful to see the joy that Jones takes in his performance; his smile is broad as he plays and performs and takes us on a trip round town. Together with the lyrics, the video creates a real sense of place and history effectively.

-ANDREW FROLISH

AMERICANA-UK.COM