Biography

Born in Borger, Texas into a musical family, Jackson Haney, affectionately known as Jackie during his upbringing, was immersed in a love for music from a young age. His father, Jack Haney, a talented guitarist who occasionally played with Bob Wills & The Texas Playboys, fostered a musical environment where impromptu jam sessions were the norm.

At the age of 8, Jackie received his first guitar — a Sears Silvertone. Tragedy struck when his father passed away in 1966, making Jackie the family's breadwinner at just fifteen years old. He formed “Jackie Haney & The Wild Mustangs” and his younger brother Dickie, who was only nine, formed “The Young Four.” Their mother Dora became their manager and booking agent.

Jackie's musical journey continued through “The Rockin Mods” to “The Click” — a band that became one of the most well-known acts around the Texas Panhandle, belting out all the popular hits of the day. Playing lead guitar and vocals alongside his brother Dickie on drums, they built a reputation as one of the finest live acts in the Southwest.

In Oklahoma City, Jackie and The Clique held a legendary 16-year residency at Friends nightclub, where a young Toby Keith was known to sit in. The connections forged during those years would shape the rest of Jackie's career.

With encouragement from friends, Jackie moved to Branson, Missouri — the “Live Music Capital of the World” — and decided to pay tribute to his father by becoming professionally known as Jackson Haney. He landed a gig within 30 minutes of arriving.

Jackson's big break came when he auditioned for Bill Haley's Original Comets — beating out over 300 guitarists from across the country for the lead guitar and lead singer position. He quickly became a fan favorite, affectionately called “Baby Comet” by the band. He toured worldwide with the Comets and was named Branson “Entertainer of the Year” and “CD of the Year.”