Meet Jon Saxx | Entertainer, Engineer & Project Manager
We had the good fortune of connecting with Jon Saxx and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jon, what is the most important factor behind your success?
“Reflecting on my journey, the success I’ve experienced in my diverse roles – as an Manufacturing Engineer, Project Manager, Entrepreneur, Entertainer, Charity Vice President, and now as Uncle Jon Saxx– stems from a blend of strategic planning, meaningful relationships, and a deep-seated faith. My SWAG – Strategic Way of Achieving Goals – is a mindset heavily influenced by my background in manufacturing engineering and project management. This education from Miami University in Oxford Ohio, and The University of Miami in Florida didn’t just equip me with technical knowledge; it taught me how to approach complex problems systematically, set achievable objectives, and efficiently manage resources. This skill set has been invaluable in every aspect of my career, from engineering precision in product development to project managing ventures and planning musical projects.
The power of relationships cannot be overstated. Building strong, genuine connections across all areas – in engineering circles, the business world, the music industry, and within the charitable organization where I serve as vice president – has been crucial. These relationships have not only opened doors but have also enriched my understanding and approach to various endeavors.
My faith in God has been the guiding force in my life. It has provided me with resilience, a sense of purpose, and a moral compass. My faith influences how I conduct myself in business, how I connect with my audience through music, and how I approach my responsibilities in charity work. It’s about making a positive impact and serving a greater good. My faith turns the challenge of facing life’s hurdles into an enjoyable journey
Becoming an uncle has added a new layer of perspective. It’s reinforced the importance of legacy and the impact of our actions on future generations. It’s a role that brings joy and a profound sense of responsibility, reminding me of the importance of nurturing, guiding, and inspiring the young ones in our lives.
So, in sum, the amalgamation of strategic thinking, relationship-building, faith, and now my role as an uncle has not only shaped my success but also molded me into a more well-rounded individual. It’s about leveraging my skills and experiences to make a difference, in the boardroom, on the stage, within the community, and now within my family as Uncle Jon.”
If I were to prioritize one key factor as the most important to focus on, given the elements we’ve discussed, I will emphasize the importance of my SWAG (Strategic Way of Achieving Goals) mindset.
This approach was shaped by my background in manufacturing engineering and project management and is fundamental to navigating the complexities of my diverse roles.
A strategic mindset allows me to set clear goals and create effective plans to achieve them, whether in engineering, entrepreneurship, music, charity work, or even in my personal life as an uncle. It’s about understanding the big picture while also managing the finer details. This approach ensures that I am not just dreaming big but also taking concrete steps to turn those dreams into reality.
Moreover, a strategic mindset helps in effectively utilizing and nurturing the amazing relationships I’ve built, aligning my actions with my faith, and ensuring that my efforts in charity work are impactful and meaningful. It’s the glue that holds all other factors together and the lens through which I can best apply them.
So, focusing on developing and maintaining a strategic way of achieving goals is, in my view, the most critical aspect of ensuring continued success and fulfillment in all areas of my AMAZING LIFE”
YOU ARE AMAZING
I AM AMAZING
TOGETHER WE CAN DO AMAZING THINGS
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
That’s a great question. What sets me apart, I believe, is the unique intersection at which my skills and experiences meet. As a musician, engineer, and project manager, I don’t just operate in these fields separately; I integrate them, which brings a distinctive perspective and approach to everything I do. In the world of music, my engineering background informs how I understand and play with sound. It’s not just about the artistry of the music; it’s about precision, structure, and exploring the science behind the melodies. This fusion leads to a sound that is not only soulful but also intellectually engaging. As an engineer and project manager, my experience in music adds creativity and out-of-the-box thinking to my approach. I tackle projects not just with technical proficiency but with the creativity of a musician, seeing the harmony in moving parts and understanding the rhythm of teamwork and storytelling.
Why should people care? Because at the core of what I do, whether it’s in music, engineering, or project management, is a passion for pushing boundaries, for creating something meaningful and impactful. My journey shows that crossing conventional lines and integrating diverse fields can lead to extraordinary outcomes. It’s about inspiring innovation and encouraging others to see beyond traditional boundaries in their own pursuits. So, it’s not just about being a musician, engineer, or project manager. It’s about how these identities blend and resonate together, creating a story that drives innovation, inspiration, and a deep connection with my audience and teams.”
I had the unfortunate experience of being laid off from my position as a Biomedical Engineer at Johnson & Johnson on a Friday. However, things took an unexpected turn when I received a phone call just a few days later. I was invited to audition for the opportunity to play the National Anthem for the Miami Heat. To my delight, I was selected and became the Official Saxophone Player for the Miami Heat. This incredible opportunity opened doors for me, as I went on to become the Official Saxophone Player for the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Marlins. I even had the honor of performing for distinguished guests such as Former President Barack Obama, Current President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris. This exposure ultimately led me to become a brand ambassador for The Growling Sax. Thanks to my newfound ambassadorship, I was able to acquire the Custom Jon Saxx Edition Black and Red Lava soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones. These instruments have become an integral part of my musical journey and have further enhanced my performances.
As I reflect on my path, it is undeniably God who has grounded me in unwavering faith, providing not just strength but also divine guidance throughout. The essence of my approach, termed SWAG (Strategic Way of Achieving Goals), is guided by this faith. Forged through a background in manufacturing engineering and project management, SWAG represents more than just a mindset—it is a sacred covenant, I am a project to be managed by God to set clear goals, create effective plans, and manifest my dreams into reality.
Navigating the complexities of various roles has been quite challenging, requiring a strategic approach and a strong focus on achieving goals. Despite the difficulties, my passion for playing the saxophone has brought joy and played a crucial role in my journey. As Frederick Douglass once said, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” This quote resonates with me and reminds me of the importance of perseverance. I firmly believe that proper planning is key to success. As the saying goes, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” This mindset, combined with my love for music, has allowed me to not only dream big but also take practical steps to transform those dreams into beautiful melodies. Playing the saxophone has provided me with incredible opportunities to perform at various events around the world. It is truly remarkable how music can convey emotions and tell stories. It has become an integral part of my journey. Moreover, I carry rocks inscribed with the empowering message “I Am Amazing” wherever I go. These rocks serve as a way for me to spread motivation and positivity to others. They are not just mere trinkets; they are powerful symbols of God’s love and inspiration.
What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
1. Life is a project to be managed
2. You are always with your younger self
3. When you change the way, you look at things the things you look at change
4. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail
5. Cherish your relationships
6. It’s not what you know its who you know, but then again, it’s what you know about who you know and that makes the difference
7. Master the art of precise communication and become an extraordinary storyteller.
8. Don’t take things personally
9. Don’t make assumptions.
10. Strive for Achievement in every field of human endeavor
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Thank you for that question. The Jon Saxx Experience is more than just about music; it’s a journey of passion, resilience, and innovation. My story isn’t just mine; it’s a tapestry woven from every encounter, every challenge, and every triumph along the way.
Firstly, I want people to know that the Jon Saxx Experience is rooted in authenticity. Whether it’s through the melodies of my saxophone or the strategies in my business ventures, every note and move comes from a place of genuine passion and purpose. My music is a reflection of my life’s experiences – from the soulful rhythms I discovered in church to the disciplined approach I honed as an engineer and project manager.
Secondly, the Jon Saxx Experience is about connection. Music, for me, is a dialogue – a way to connect with others on a profound level. It’s about sharing stories, emotions, and moments. When I perform, it’s not just a performance; it’s an invitation to my audience to embark on a sensory and emotional journey with me.
Lastly, the brand is about impact and inspiration. I believe in using my platform not just to entertain but to inspire, to mentor, and to give back to the community. It’s about showing that with hard work, dedication, and belief, boundaries can be transcended, and dreams can be realized.
So, the Jon Saxx Experience is a fusion of music, life lessons, and an unyielding drive to make a positive impact. It’s about creating a legacy that resonates with and uplifts others, both through music and through actions.”
I’m excited about the path ahead and the positive impact we will create together. YOU ARE AMAZING
And as Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you sayeth the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to bring you hope and a future.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival in Fort Lauderdale • Morning: Arrive at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport Party Bus pickup and bar crawl around fort Lauderdale then check into your hotel (Marriott Brand Hotel).
• Afternoon: Relax at Fort Lauderdale Beach. Sunday Funday – Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
• Evening: Explore Las Olas Boulevard for dining and shopping.
Day 2: Exploring Fort Lauderdale
• Morning: Breakfast at Betty’s Soul Food Restaurant – then Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.
• Afternoon: Take a water taxi tour to see the city from its famous canals.
• Evening: Dinner at Rustic Inn Crab house a waterfront restaurant.
Day 3: Miami Dolphins Game Day
• Morning: Drive to Miami. Visit Wynwood Walls to see vibrant street art.
• Afternoon: Attend the Miami Dolphins game. Enjoy the pre-game festivities, tailgate, and the game.
• Evening: Experience Miami’s nightlife, possibly in the Brickell area – Sugar, Moxies, Better Days
Day 4: Discovering Miami
• Morning: Breakfast and Explore in Little Havana, enjoy Cuban coffee and pastries.
• Afternoon: Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, then wet willies & cheeseburger baby for lunch.
• Evening: Duck tour of South Beach, enjoy dinner at an oceanside restaurant – CJ’s Crab shack, or Joes Stone Crab
Day 5: Miami Heat Game Day
• Daytime: Relax at Miami Beach or visit the Miami Design District for shopping.
• Evening: Attend the Miami Heat game at the American Airlines Arena – Dinner, Drinks, Game, then after party at the club inside the Kaseya Center.
Day 6: The Florida Keys Day Trip
• Daytime: Take a day trip to Key West. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and enjoy the scenic drive – Deep Sea fishing Excursion or swim with the dolphins at Dolphins Cove .
• Evening: Dinner at the Fish House in the Florida Keys then Return to Miami. possibly drinks in Miami’s Bayside Marketplace.
Day 7: Departure
• Morning: Breakfast and drinks at the hotel
• Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and depart from Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It is with great honor that I partake in the Shoutout series, and in this moment, I wish to express my deep appreciation for those individuals who have made a substantial impact on my journey. Above all, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Polly Wilkie, the esteemed CEO and Founder of the Prestige Club Charity. Their unwavering commitment to community service and unwavering support for families in need have been a wellspring of inspiration, optimism, and have undeniably played a pivotal role in both my personal and professional development.
I also want to recognize the profound impact of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. The brotherhood, mentorship, and values I’ve experienced in this fraternity have been instrumental in shaping my character and guiding my path with achievement in every field of human endeavor on purpose with purpose.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. My tenure at this esteemed institution was marked by a deep sense of admiration, respect, love, honor and an abundance of transformative educational and life experiences. The knowledge, connections, and guidance that I acquired during my time there have played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. I am truly indebted to Miami University for its invaluable contribution to my career.
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to my mentee, author, and fraternity brother Kenny Glenn. I am truly honored to have been quoted in his book, titled “Question Everything – Advice for Students and Graduates”. The profound statement, “YOU ARE ALWAYS WITH YOUR YOUNGER SELF,” resonates deeply with me. I am immensely grateful to Kenny for providing me with a road map and instilling in me the bravery to constantly challenge the status quo. I am indebted to him for penning this remarkable book.
I would like to express my utmost gratitude to my beloved parents, Hazel Ross and Charles Ross, who reside in Cincinnati, Ohio. Their unwavering support, unconditional love, and invaluable guidance have played a pivotal role in shaping my path. Their unwavering faith, selfless sacrifices, and unwavering belief in my abilities have served as a constant source of inspiration, propelling me towards achieving greatness in all my pursuits.
Each of these entities – Polly Wilkie and Prestige Club Charity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc, Miami University, Oxford Ohio, Kenny Glenn, and especially my parents – have been pillars in my life’s story. They deserve immense recognition and credit for their roles in nurturing, guiding, and supporting me. My journey is a testament to their influence and the strength of their support.”
Website: www.jonsaxx.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonsaxx/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonsaxx
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialJonSaxx/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jon-saxx-entertainment-group-hialeah
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonsaxxentertainment9541
Other: https://linktr.ee/jonsaxx
Image Credits
Ian Walcott – Graphic Designer Selines Silverio – Photographer DJ Mike Tee – Disc Jokey Kimberly Sarni SFBW Magazine Loan Depot Stadium Miami Dolphins Miami Heat Prestige Club of SW Broward SFBW Magazine Walt Disney World
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
