John Bell (musician)

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John Bell performing with Widespread Panic

John Farmer Bell (born April 14, 1962) is the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for the southern rock band Widespread Panic. He is frequently called "JB" by fans.

Bell, originally from Cleveland, Ohio, attended the University of Georgia when he, Michael Houser, and Dave Schools met while Houser was playing at an open mic night. "Panic," as Houser was nicknamed, began playing with JB and Schools at local Athens, GA clubs, playing mostly covers.

JB is known for his raspy southern drawl that hits a variety of octaves.

John Bell is an active philanthropist, most notably as an advocate for SMA (spinal muscular atrophy). Bell has helped raise over $2 million for SMA reasearch, mostly through his involvement with "Hannah's Buddies," named for Bell's goddaughter, who lives with SMA. Bell is involved in an annual fundraiser featuring a golf tournament and evening concert by "JB and Friends," featuring John Bell solo, as well as performing with guests. Guest performers at the benefit have included Col. Bruce Hampton, Vic Chesnutt, Sam Holt, John Keane, and Bloodkin, as well as grammy winner Robert Randolph and his family band and North Mississippi All Stars, and Nickel and the Polar Bears. John Bell is also active in other philanthropic areas. He now resides in the north Georgia mountain town of Dahlonega.