FAST FIVE: Kick up your heels with Rusty Jackson

Meet Rusty Jackson, an entertainer based in Post Falls who performs over 150 shows a year. He is also the director of the Northwest Country Music Association (NW-CMA). The NW-CMA is having its annual awards show at the Bing Crosby Theater at 6 p.m. Sunday. Details can be found on Rusty's website, rustyjackson.com.

1) How long have you been a musician, and why country music?

I started learning to play the guitar when I was 11. My dad was a big influence and he loved country music. I got into a band when I was 19 but then at age 21, I decided to pursue a "normal" life. For the next several years I only played music in church. Then 10 years ago, I got the idea to get back out and play country music again. The funny thing is that the country songs that were popular when I was 19 are still pretty popular!

2) What joy and fulfillment do you experience when you are on stage performing?

Playing and creating music has always been my passion. I love to see people react to what I'm doing. I like making people laugh and I love to entertain — I feel most alive when I'm on stage!

3) Who are some of your musical idols and why?

Johnny Cash — his voice communicated such strength. Kris Kristofferson - best writer ever and his voice communicates everything. James Taylor — I love his writing and his guitar style. 

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

Rusty Jackson is my "stage name." My birth name is Russ Reese, but when I was a kid everyone in my family called me "Rusty." When I started performing country music again (10 years ago), I decided to use the name Rusty Jackson because my dad's name is Jack — thus Rusty, Jack's son. I'm glad I did it — he passed away many years ago and it's my way of honoring him.

5) What is your favorite song of all time, or if you don't have a No. 1, what are a few of your favorites and why?

"Loving Her was Easier Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again" by Kris Kristofferson. I love it for three reasons. First is just the pure poetry of the lyrics. Second, it was popular when I was a teenager and it was one of the few songs that I could sing well at that time because my voice liked the melody. And third is a very personal reason — a few years ago that song took a new, deeper meaning for me that made me love it even more!