HEALTH AND RECOVERY ACTIVIST
CBS Story about Jam’s work
Before & after
It’s not every day that the hard, gritty world of rock ‘n’ roll intersects with the equally intense sphere of addiction recovery. But for Jam Alker, these two worlds are not just interconnected—they are inseparable. In a career that reads like the most dramatic of rock operas, Alker has transformed his life from the depths of heroin addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar demons.
The Highs and Lows of a Rockstar Life
Alker’s journey begins like many classic rock tales: with a guitar in hand and a dream in his heart. Born in Bearsted, England, and raised in the United States, Alker's early life was marked by turbulence, with frequent relocations and family dysfunction. He found solace in music, a passion that carried him through the ups and downs of his teenage years.
The Formation of The JAB and Consume
Alker wasn’t content with just a solo career. He sought to build something bigger, forming the band The JAB, a five-piece ensemble comprising some of Chicago’s finest musicians: Tom Stukel (drums), Terry Byrne (guitar, keys), Ryan Herrick (lead guitar), and Alex Piazza (bass). Together, they crafted a sound that defies easy categorization, blending elements of blues, punk, and classic rock.
Recovery through Activism
