Jerry Douglas, Cincinnati, Ohio native, joined the music scene at the early age of 12. He played with groups such as The Dukanes, Free High Spirit, Ruff House, House Guess, EPU, Python Band, The Cincinnati Exciters, Soul Salems, The Chozen Phew, and The Incrediable 5. In 1968, he did a stint with the US Air Force, during this time he was influenced more by the Soulful R&B of Motown and other musicians such as, Stevie Wonder, Cold Blood, Earth Wind & Fire, James Brown, Cameo, Temptations, Chicago, Kool and The Gang, Larry Graham, Sly and The Family Stone, Jimmy Hendrix, Pattie Labelle, Bill Withers, Whittney Houston, Lionel Richie, Tom Brown, AWB, Tower Of Power, Smokey Robinson, Blue Magic, George Clinton, Mother's Finest, Mandrell, and Bootsy Colins. After serving his country, he started touring with Joe Tex, opening for such acts like, The Ohio Players, Roger and Zapp. During his down time, he would set in with Johnny Taylor. He has been rewarded in his life-in-music in ways such as being recognized by and encouraged by his friend and mentor Rick James.