Jonathan Williams' music career is beginning to take off. The Vernon country artist is busy playing shows, has a new EP in the works, and just released a new single called That's What a Heartbreak Tastes Like, recorded and co-written by Vernon's Jeff Johnson.
His music career has been a journey over the past couple years 害羞草研究所� one of profound healing.
In 2021 Williams medically retired from his career as a police officer due to severe PTSD sustained on the job. that he knew he needed help when he found himself "uncontrollably sobbing" in his police cruiser.
He'd started a band with his wife before his policing career, and in therapy he was encouraged to revive his passion for music.
Williams picked his guitar back up and felt the symptoms of PTSD melt away.
He's been chasing that feeling ever since 害羞草研究所� and with great success.
"My therapy has become my full-time employment now," he said after performing at Armstrong's 123rd Interior Provincial Exhibition (IPE) on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
He also performed at the IPE Thursday and will play the main stage from 7 to 8 p.m. Saturday and 9 to 10 p.m. Sunday with his band, known as Jon's Jamboree.
Looking back on his darker days, Williams remarked on the relief music has brought him, especially in public settings.
"I was totally isolated just because of the PTSD. Everywhere I went I always felt like there was going to be trouble or there was going to be a fight of some sort, or I'd be triggered by traffic incidents," he said.
"But what's amazing is that the music has gotten me out in front of people and instead of being hated for going to places and putting people in jail, I'm being loved for playing music that I like. It's a complete 180."
Williams said it was perfect timing between the release of That's What a Heartbreak Feels Like and the IPE. Crowds listening to Jon's Jamboree this weekend will get to hear the new single, some of Williams' other originals and a mix of country classics.
Williams' music can be found on Spotify and Apple Music.
