Before forming the full band, however, Jaden had already explored his love for blues rock music by creating a smaller trio earlier that spring. He teamed up with Ryan Choi on drums and Terry Deng on bass to form a blues group inspired by groups like the John Mayer Trio, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and the Phillip Sayce Trio. that emphasized raw, expressive musicianship. The trio performed their first show on May 10th their high school, playing a set of blues-rock songs that allowed Jaden to showcase his lead guitar skills while building confidence as a live performer and bandleader. This early experience helped him develop the musical coordination and leadership necessary to later guide a larger ensemble.
With both the trio and main band ready, Jaden began organizing further live performances. The full band debuted on at Kudos Society Café in Teaneck, performing and calm and chill set that drew strong community support. They went on to play a second concert in August at the Ramsey Farmers Market, further expanding their reach and bringing together local audiences through the shared joy of live music. These performances became the heart of Jaden’s project, using collaboration and creativity to make a tangible impact.
Across the three concerts, Jaden and his fellow musicians raised a total of $500, which they donated to the Heart and Armor Foundation, a nonprofit founded by John Mayer to benefit veterans’ health. The donation symbolized a full-circle moment for Jaden, channeling his admiration for Mayer’s artistry and his own commitment to service into meaningful action. Through this project, Jaden demonstrated how music can transcend entertainment, becoming a bridge between passion and purpose, and how one student’s dedication can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
