Is lasting love in the entertainment industry just a myth? Howard Jones and his wife, Jan Smith, stand as a vibrant contradiction, their decades-long relationship a compelling narrative of unwavering support and shared artistic fire. Their story is not just a footnote to Jones's illustrious career; it's the very foundation upon which his continued success has been built.

The Welsh musician, born John Howard Jones on February 23, 1955, in Southampton, England, carved his niche in the 1980s with his unique blend of synth-pop melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Hits like "New Song," "What Is Love?" and "Like to Get to Know You Well" propelled him to international stardom, captivating audiences with his energetic performances and innovative use of technology. Yet, behind the dazzling lights and catchy tunes, a constant presence has been Jan Smith, his wife and confidante. Their journey, which began during Jones's ascent to fame, is a testament to the enduring power of love amidst the tumultuous landscape of the music industry.

Category	Howard Jones	Jan Smith
Full Name	John Howard Jones	Jan Smith (maiden name Johnson)
Birth Date	February 23, 1955	N/A
Birth Place	Southampton, England	N/A
Age	70 years (as of October 26, 2024)	N/A
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Musician	Vocal Coach, Music Educator
Spouse	Jan Smith	Howard Jones
Children	Osheen, Mica, Jasper	N/A
Early Career	Piano Teacher, various odd jobs	High School Music Teacher
Musical Style	Synth-pop, New Wave	N/A
Key Achievements	Multiple Top 40 hits, international recognition	Worked with Justin Bieber, Usher, Drake, and other notable artists.
Religious Beliefs	Nichiren Buddhism (Soka Gakkai International)	N/A
Residence	Somerset, England	N/A
Website	howardjones.com	N/A

Before the synthesizers and stadium concerts, Jones honed his musical skills, even working as a piano teacher and taking on various odd jobs to make ends meet. Music was always in his blood, leading him to form his first band, Warrior, with his brothers. The band's sound was rooted in classic rock, drawing inspiration from progressive giants like Genesis and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. While Warrior didn't achieve mainstream success, it served as a crucial training ground for Jones, allowing him to develop his songwriting and performance abilities.

It was during this period, while balancing his musical aspirations with the demands of everyday life, that Howard Jones met Jan Smith. Some accounts suggest that Smith was a student of Jones, while others indicate their paths crossed at a music-related event. Regardless of the exact circumstances, their shared passion for music sparked an immediate connection. They married when Jones was just 21 years old, embarking on a life journey together that would intertwine personal and professional aspirations.

The early years of their marriage were marked by both challenges and triumphs. Jones continued to pursue his musical dreams, while Smith provided unwavering emotional and practical support. One anecdote recounts an incident where Jan was injured when a runaway vehicle crashed into a van they were using to sell fruits and vegetables. While her injuries were not severe, Howard encouraged her to seek compensation. She then selflessly used that money to purchase Howard a synthesizer, a pivotal moment that would significantly impact his musical trajectory.

The 1980s witnessed Howard Jones's meteoric rise to fame. His innovative use of synthesizers, combined with his melodic songwriting and relatable lyrics, resonated with a global audience. Tracks like "New Song" became anthems of optimism and self-belief, while "What Is Love?" explored the complexities of human relationships. As Jones's star ascended, Jan Smith remained his steadfast anchor, providing a sense of normalcy and stability amidst the whirlwind of celebrity.

Jan Smith's influence extended beyond emotional support. She is often described as Jones's creative muse, offering feedback on his music and helping him refine his artistic vision. While she remained largely out of the public eye, her impact on Jones's career was undeniable. The couple's ability to navigate the pressures of the music industry while maintaining a strong and loving relationship is a rare and remarkable achievement.

The couple's enduring bond is not just a matter of luck; it's a result of conscious effort and shared values. In a 2011 interview, Jones reflected on his marriage to Jan, stating, "I've been married to my wife, Jan, for over 30 years. And our relationship has just got better and better as we got older together. So it is the thing that gave me most joy in my life." This sentiment underscores the importance of communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to growth in their relationship.

Howard Jones's artistic journey has also been influenced by his spiritual beliefs. In the late 1980s, he began practicing Nichiren Buddhism as a member of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI), a worldwide Buddhist association. He has credited his daily practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, a core mantra of Nichiren Buddhism, since 1991, with having a profoundly positive effect on his life. This spiritual practice has provided him with a sense of inner peace, resilience, and a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.

Jones's commitment to Nichiren Buddhism is not merely a personal practice; it also informs his music. His lyrics often explore themes of compassion, social justice, and the power of the human spirit. He believes that music can be a force for positive change in the world, and he strives to create songs that inspire and uplift his listeners.

Beyond his musical achievements, Howard Jones is a devoted family man. He and Jan have three children: Osheen, Mica, and Jasper. The couple has prioritized creating a loving and supportive home environment for their children, shielding them from the intense glare of the spotlight as much as possible. Jones has often spoken about the importance of balancing his career with his family responsibilities, recognizing that his role as a father and husband is just as important as his role as a musician.

In addition to his own musical endeavors, Jones has also collaborated with other artists and explored different creative avenues. He has composed film scores, written music for television, and even ventured into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the potential of AI to create new and innovative music. His willingness to experiment and embrace new technologies has kept his music fresh and relevant throughout his career.

While Howard Jones continues to tour and release new music, Jan Smith has also pursued her own professional path. She is a renowned vocal coach and music educator, known for her work with a diverse range of artists, including Justin Bieber, Usher, and Drake. Smith's expertise in vocal technique and performance has made her a highly sought-after mentor in the music industry.

Born Lula Grace Johnson, Jan Smith has made a significant impact in the world of vocal coaching and artist development. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in music education and initially worked as a high school music teacher before transitioning into a full-time vocal coach. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to nurture talent have earned her widespread respect and admiration.

While some sources suggest that Jan Smith was previously married to Howard Jones, and that she may be single now, other sources contradict this information. The majority of credible sources indicate that Howard Jones and Jan Smith have been married since 1977 and remain a couple to this day.

Howard Jones's longevity in the music industry is a testament to his talent, his adaptability, and his unwavering commitment to his craft. But it's also a reflection of the strong and supportive partnership he shares with Jan Smith. Their relationship is a reminder that even in the demanding world of entertainment, lasting love and mutual respect can thrive. Their story offers a beacon of hope and inspiration to anyone seeking a meaningful and enduring connection.

As Howard Jones continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music, Jan Smith remains his rock, providing unwavering support and creative inspiration. Their love story serves as a powerful example of how love, support, and shared passion can create a lifetime of happiness and success.

The enduring partnership between Howard Jones and Jan Smith is a reminder that true success is not just about achieving professional accolades, but also about building meaningful relationships and living a life filled with love, purpose, and joy. Their story will continue to inspire generations of musicians and couples alike.

The impact of his daily practice of chanting Namu Myh Renge Ky (), which translates to "Devotion to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra" or "Glory to the Sutra of the Lotus of the Supreme Law," has been profound, and is a testament of his success with Jan smith.

British musician Howard Jones with his wife Jan Smith, circa 1989. News Photo Getty Images

Details

British musician Howard Jones with his wife Jan Smith at the Brit... News Photo Getty Images

Details

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Mr. Halle Witting DDS
Username : uziemann
Email : hkshlerin@predovic.com
Birthdate : 2004-05-17
Address : 695 Genoveva Mountains Apt. 315 West Era, WA 68781-4615
Phone : (323) 453-5363
Company : Casper and Sons
Job : Biochemist
Bio : Quasi dolor fugit architecto quae dicta. Qui omnis modi voluptate temporibus delectus quod. Illum sint iste numquam quas rerum est eius nihil. Reprehenderit qui modi quae culpa placeat aut aut.

Socials

tiktok:

url : https://tiktok.com/@antonette_lebsack
username : antonette_lebsack
bio : Sint quia laudantium deleniti amet officiis laborum.
followers : 6775
following : 883

facebook:

url : https://facebook.com/antonette_id
username : antonette_id
bio : Occaecati voluptas sunt aut. Explicabo earum accusantium rem eum.
followers : 5976
following : 1490

instagram:

url : https://instagram.com/antonette5953
username : antonette5953
bio : Sed est exercitationem aliquam consequatur quo neque. Perspiciatis consectetur quod sit et.
followers : 620
following : 1169