Remembering Western Colorado Club Owner and Music Lover Jumpin’ Jimmy Rose

Long time Western Colorado club owner and music supporter James "Jumpin' Jimmy" Rose has passed away at the age of 68. In addition to operating some of Grand Junction's most loved night clubs, Rose was an unmatched supporter of live music.

For several years back in the 1980s and 90s, Jumpin' Jimmy owned an operated J.J.'s Lounge on 30 Road just of the I-70B. In later years, he moved the operation to Jimmy's Roadhouse, farther East on the I-70B, near Central High School.

Jimmy was well known as a strong supporter of the local music scene. During his tenure as a bar owner, Jimmy would run live bands five nights a week, Wednesday through Sunday.

Among the bands Jimmy hired through the years were: Rumor Hazzit, Ralph N' Clyde, Windfall, Shot Gun, and The Grand Junction All Stars.

Put simply, Jimmy made it possible for many Western Colorado musicians to earn a living. Having a local, five-night-a-week gig was a rarity for local bands. At the same time, locals had a venue they could visit to hear live music, all without the added cost of a cover charge.

One of Jimmy's long-time friends, Clyde Jorgensen, bassist for the band Ralph N' Clyde, had this to say about Jimmy Rose:

Jimmy and I dead sure agreed to 'no one is good enough to be an ***hole.'" This, of course, was referring to musicians. I can tell you this as well... Jimmy was an honest man and too damn rotten to lie. Since Jimmy and I are good friends, you can quote me on that." - Clyde Jorgensen

In addition to be a music supporter, Jimmy was an excellent bassist, drummer, and vocalist.

(left to right: Jimmy Rose: bass; Steve Moser: drums; Gordon Nielson: guitar, and Rusty Estes: guitar.)

While it is certainly none of my business, I do have to wonder one thing about Jimmy's business dynamic. By running bands five nights a week, at very reasonable pay, and without the income of a cover charge, Jimmy would had to have lost money all those years. Certainly, the cost of live entertainment would have devoured all his daytime receipts. I always admired his willingness to bite the bullet and lose part of his profits in order to keep music alive in the valley.

I always thought Jimmy was probably the best club owner I ever worked for. He treated the bands, and for that matter, anyone who worked for him, with an honesty and fairness that you seldom find. He had a heart of gold and never hesitated to help you out if you were in need! He will be sorely missed." - Greg Achord

To all who love Country music and live entertainment, Jimmy Rose certainly touched your life. Thank you, "Jumpin' Jimmy" Rose, for your endless support of Country music and those who love to play it.