Wass performing for Carson Valley Days

Gardnerville troubadour Jakota Wass will be helping to sooth the crowd on Friday night as part of the annual Carson Valley Days celebration.

Wass will perform original songs 8-11 p.m. from his “Battle Born” album, which was released earlier this year, during the celebration’s live music night.

The album honors his love for his hometown and all the people who have inspired and encouraged him over the years.

“All the songs have inspiration from growing up in a small town,” he said. “Anyone who grew up here can relate and connect to it.”

Wass said he started playing guitar around 11-years-old, and fell in love with the never-ending adventure his guitar brings him. He’s performed mostly cover songs from artists, the Eagles, Blake Shelton, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, among others. “Battle Born” is his first original album.

“Writing your own songs is special because you’re not just copying other artist, but displaying and creating your own style as a musician and finding your own voice.”

Wass’ voice is inspired from growing up in the Carson Valley tied into a country, southern rock genre.

“If you grew up listening to Johnny Cash, or anyone like that, that’s where a lot of my inspiration comes from are sounds like that,” he said. “The rest comes from fishing the Carson River, looking up at Job’s Peak and the things that make up home.”

Over the years, Wass has performed at numerous venues in the Carson Valley, Reno and Lake Tahoe and is excited to be this year’s Carson Valley Day’s musician headliner.

“I appreciate the 20/30 club for putting Carson Valley Days together and for the musicians they have chosen to perform,” said Wass. “We are excited for the community to come out and enjoy live music and celebrating the Carson Valley.”

Wass performs at local venues including the Third Thursday Wine Walks and Minden Farmers Market.

Wass’ album “Battle Born” is available across all streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify and CDs are for sale at all of his performances. For more information check out his website https://jakotawass.com/, find him on Facebook at facebook.com/jakotawassmusic/ or on Instagram @jakotawassmusic.