The 3 J’s band: Bringing people together through music

What started as a few residents singing together at Carnarvon Place has grown into something much bigger. The 3 J’s Band has become a source of friendship, confidence and joy for residents, staff and audiences across the local community.

Made up of Jimmy, Gerry and John, the group now performs at housing schemes, pubs, care homes, charity events and community gatherings. Despite Gerry’s name being spelt with a G, the group proudly calls themselves the 3 J’s. But their story is about far more than music.

A passion that connects people

At the heart of the group is Robert, better known locally as Jimmy Rocket. Well known in Newbury’s entertainment scene for more than 30 years, Jimmy has spent his life performing and sharing his love of music with others.

Even during the Covid pandemic, when residents were isolated from family and friends, Jimmy found a way to keep spirits up. He performed concerts in the Carnarvon Place car park while residents watched and sang along from their balconies and windows. 

Jimmy says music is still his life.

“It brings pleasure to people and gives them something to look forward to. It keeps me sane.”

Finding confidence again

For Gerry, joining the group changed everything.

Gerry moved into Carnarvon Place four years ago, although his love of singing began much earlier.

“I sang in the choir at school and even won a few competitions,” he said.

Despite his early talent, Gerry had not performed for years until Jimmy encouraged him, or as Gerry jokingly describes it, “forced” him onto the stage to sing.

He has not looked back since.

Today, the group rehearses two or three times a week, often for up to five hours at a time, filling the communal lounge with music, laughter and supportive residents offering feedback and song requests.

The band now has a catalogue of more than 600 songs on an iPad, with new tracks constantly being added.

For Gerry, the impact has been life changing. After losing his wife, he experienced depression and struggled with confidence. Performing again helped him rediscover himself.

A new lease of life

John also became part of the group by chance.

Having played music in pubs during the 1960s, John had not performed for around 40 years. After moving into Carnarvon Place a year ago, he happened to hear Jimmy and Gerry rehearsing and dropped in to watch.

Before long, Jimmy encouraged him to join in and another member of the 3 J’s was born.

John says music helped him settle into scheme life and connect with other residents.

“When I first moved in, it was hard to meet neighbours. Now, through music, I know everyone.”

The group has become known not only for their performances, but also for their sense of fun. Between the funky shirts, jazzy ties and their signature hats, the 3 J’s make sure every performance feels like an occasion.

More than entertainment

The band regularly performs at local community events, housing schemes, care homes and Mencap sessions.

Some of their most meaningful performances take place in care homes, where music can have a visible impact on residents.

“You can see their faces completely change when they hear the music,” they said.

At Carnarvon Place, rehearsals have transformed the communal lounge into a lively and welcoming social space. Residents regularly gather to listen, dance, sing backing vocals and enjoy the atmosphere together.

Sandra, Scheme Officer at SNG, said:

“I love them, what they stand for, what it’s done for them all and everyone else. It’s had such a big impact, brings happiness and you can really see the joy in bringing everyone together.”

Friendship at the centre

Although the performances are important, the friendships behind the music are what matter most to the group.

The members regularly support one another outside rehearsals and describe themselves as close friends as well as bandmates.

Their openness, humour and encouragement are central to what makes the group so special.

Whether it is inviting nervous audience members on stage, supporting fellow residents through difficult times, or laughing together after receiving some brutally honest feedback from residents, the 3 J’s create an environment where everyone feels welcome.

As Jimmy puts it, they simply want people to have a go and enjoy themselves.

For the residents, staff and audiences lucky enough to hear them perform, the music continues to bring confidence, companionship and joy wherever they go.

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