Jackson Harden is a singer-songwriter from Utah, currently based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Combining elements of traditional folk, alt-country, and chamber pop, his music has a timeless quality that creates an airy, open atmosphere tinged with imagery of the vast desert landscapes and towering mountains of the western United States. His gentle vocal style, intimate songwriting, and intricate guitar picking are often compared to the likes of Nick Drake and Elliott Smith. His debut EP Dakota Blue Moon was released in November of 2023.

Jackson and seven other finalists will perform, network, and compete at the 11th annual LEAF Performance & Songwriter Competition, presented by NewSong Music, at LEAF Global Arts Retreat on Saturday, May 10.