J.T. Braxton was a legendary musician, music educator, and long-time Lubbock resident.
During a two-year sabbatical from the historic Tuskegee Institute, Braxton performed with various jazz bands in Philadelphia, New York, and Atlantic City and toured with the famed Russel Jacquet Band. The Braxton’s moved to Lubbock in 1960. James worked with his brother-in-law Roy Roberts to build great band and orchestra programs that became widely recognized throughout Texas. During this time, he also had a hectic performance schedule with the Roy Roberts Combo, the JT Braxton Band, and several other dance bands. He performed with the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra in the 1970s under the direction of William A. Harrod. James retired in 1985 after twenty-five years of service with the Lubbock Independent School District; however, he continued to perform and serve as a mentor for more than 30 years after he retired from LISD. Mr. Braxton passed on December 1, 2020, at 101.
James “J.T.” Braxton was inducted into the West Texas Walk of Fame in 2017.
