By Nila Harris
FALMOUTH — “I just decided that I had nothing to tie me back,” 2016 Pendleton County High School graduate Ian Tackett said.
“Something burns inside me and makes me want to reach people with my music.”
Tackett headed to Salt Lake City last month to pursue his lifelong dream of making music as a career.
On his way out West, Tackett stopped at Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Staying there for two weeks, he made his way to the Lincoln Theater for a jam session. Tackett pulled out his guitar and joined in.
While in Cheyenne, Tackett made lots of contacts in the music business, including one person who wants him to play in Santa Fe in the fall.
Although he enjoyed the people he met and playing in Cheyenne, Tackett faced a devastating blow when his $2,300 Taylor guitar was stolen.
Accustomed to life’s difficulties and being “hard-headed,” “I looked at what I still had left; still have a cheap $200 guitar I could use and equipment,” Tackett said.
“It’s not my goal to be rich and famous. I just want to make a living playing music.”
Tackett went on to Salt Lake City, where he is rooming with other musicians. He plans to delve into his music full force in the fall and wants to play music in every state.
He has several original tunes that he plans on recording, including Rebel Soul which “has to do with my life.”
His first music goal is to release the single “Celestial Bodies” co-written with Falmouth native, songwriter Chris Collins.
The music Tackett plays is what a “lot of people call Americana”, but he says it’s more “bluesy.”
Tackett started playing in a band while in high school and has played locally in a couple different bands.
Tackett gives credit to his step grandfather, Darrel Clark for encouraging him with his music. Clark played on the circuit and spent several years traveling and playing music, mostly in Florida.
Tackett also stated that local musician “Dennis Hutchinson has been one of the best influencers for me as far as music goes and as far as being a better person. He’s like a big brother to me.”
Tackett explained that he has greatly missed Hutchinson since he left Pendleton County.
While in Salt Lake City, Tackett will be working in sales. A friend of his told him about the job opportunity which will last three months.
After he finishes his commitment with the sales company, Tackett plans to focus full time on his music.
“The job gave me an excuse and a destination.”