Country-pop is shifting, and Jack Horton is helping shape where it’s going next.
Blending acoustic roots with cross-cultural influence, this bilingual singer-songwriter is doing more than writing catchy songs; he’s expanding the conversation.
With lyrics in both English and Japanese, Horton brings a fresh dynamic to a genre that’s long been tied to one place and one voice.
His sound feels both familiar and new, rooted in heartfelt storytelling but filtered through a lens shaped by global experience.
At a time when authenticity matters more than polish, Horton offers both.
From Courtrooms to Choruses
Before the streaming numbers rolled in, Horton had a very different life. With experience in law, politics, and business, he was on a steady professional path.
But his passion for songwriting never left. Eventually, it pulled him back with perspective and something to say.
That experience adds depth to his music. His lyrics feel grounded, introspective, and honest.
Horton writes with a sense of lived truth that resonates across languages and cultures.
The Breakout Hit: “String Around My Finger”
“String Around My Finger”, released May 2, 2025, marks Horton’s most notable release to date.
Produced by Nate Kohrs (Mark Ronson, Kylie Minogue, Jason Derulo), the track layers polished pop elements with the warmth of acoustic instrumentation.
It tells the story of a songwriter tempted to chase a dream in Nashville, only to realize that what he’s looking for is already close to home.
“This song was incredibly fun to write, produce, and sing,” Horton says. “It brings back memories of Friday night football games and small-town parties.”
The song has made an impact. It reached #9 on the U.S. iTunes Singer-Songwriter chart, landed in the Top 50 on Instagram in both Canada and the U.S., and hit #11 on YouTube’s Canada Daily Shorts.
Global Influence: The Tokyo Sessions
Before the recent chart success, Horton released The Tokyo Sessions, a bilingual project that reflects his performances in both Japan and the United States.
Singing in English and Japanese, he brings listeners into his personal and cultural journey. The result is music that resonates on a wide emotional scale without relying on translation.
Horton has spent years performing across both countries, building a loyal grassroots following along the way.
His live shows are known for balancing energy with emotional intimacy, an experience that often leaves a lasting impression on first-time listeners.
What’s Next: Operator
Following the energy of his breakout single, Horton’s upcoming EP, Operator, takes on a more reflective tone.
It explores themes like personal growth, acceptance, and change. The project is set to expand his sound and connect with listeners who value emotional honesty.
A Broader Vision for Country-Pop
Horton represents a shift in the genre. His music moves between languages, places, and styles, while still staying rooted in emotional storytelling.
He proves that country-pop doesn’t have to follow a single formula. It can stretch, include new voices, and still hold onto the feeling that makes the genre meaningful.
Follow his journey on Instagram and Twitter, where he continues to share new work and connect with fans around the world.
Country-pop may be changing, but Jack Horton isn’t chasing trends. He’s staying true to his voice, and that’s exactly what’s making people listen.