About

Musical Journey and Influence

Justin Varnes, known on stage as Jus’, is a bass player whose rhythmic mastery seamlessly bridges the worlds of jazz fusion and funk. Hailing from Chicagoland, Justin began his musical journey at the age of 15. He pursued his passion through formal education, earning a degree in Music Education with a focus on Jazz Double Bass from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2015. His early experiences in Chicago and Denver’s vibrant blues and jazz scenes, performing on both upright and electric bass, were instrumental in shaping his unique style. Strongly influenced by his Chicago roots, Justin further honed his skills through studies with renowned musicians such as Tribal Tech’s Gary Willis and Grammy-nominated artists Ricky Showalter and Paul Erhard. His ability to fuse complex jazz harmonies with deep, groove-oriented rhythms makes him a versatile and compelling force in the jazz fusion genre.

National and International Performances

Jus’ has garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally, with standout performances in six countries and across the United States. His mastery of jazz fusion was on full display at the prestigious International Jazz Festival in Havana, Cuba, where he performed with “The Funky Taters” in both January 2023 and 2024. Known for his complex, innovative bass lines and seamless blending of funk and jazz fusion, Jus’ captivates audiences on a global scale. His discipline and dedication, honed through four years of service with the 1st Ranger Battalion in the US Army (including a combat tour in Iraq), are evident in his powerful and focused performances.