Journey Tribute Frontman Jason Paulino Scores National Recognition for Solo Music

Musician Jason Paulino grew up in Hudson, Massachusetts, before moving to Clinton in 2005. Last year, he moved to the Nashville area to pursue a solo career as a singer-songwriter and recording artist. The move is paying off already.

A Major Milestone in Nashville

Paulino is nominated in the category Song of the Year-Rock Artist at the 12th Annual Jose Music Awards for his current single, "Don't Give Up On Me." The winners will be announced on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the famed Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.

Jason, or Paulino as he is known these days, said, "It is truly an honor to be nominated for a Jose Award, and I'm incredibly grateful to be recognized in the first year I've entered my music."

Courtesy Paulino

"I'm excited to be considered alongside so many other talented artists, and I appreciate the support," Paulino said. "Words cannot express what I am feeling. The recognition of being heard and understood in such a personal song confirmed I'm achieving my dreams and right where I'm supposed to be."

Deep Roots in the Massachusetts Music Scene

Paulino is no stranger to the Massachusetts music scene, having been part of the band The Great Escape: A Tribute to Journey since its formation in 2008. The band, with Paulino as its frontman, has performed at clubs, casinos, fairs, and feasts throughout the region and beyond, including the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford.

While striking out on his own, Paulino still performs with The Great Escape when he can.

Courtesy Paulino

Coming Home to New Bedford

Friday night, August 14, 2026, The Great Escape: A Tribute to Journey will give a free, live performance at the Senhor da Pedra Feast at New Bedford's Madeira Field. Paulino will be front and center.

"I'm looking forward to returning to the Senhor da Pedra Feast and couldn't be more excited to headline Friday Night," Paulino said. "I am very proud of my (Portuguese) heritage and hope all my people show up in support of me."

The band returns to The Vault Music Hall and Pub in downtown New Bedford on Saturday, December 5, 2026.

Paulino's nominated song, "Don't Give Up On Me," can be found on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.

There are several options for viewing the Jose Music Awards broadcast live from Nashville on September 20.