Power Take Off is a rock-pop/punk band making waves in the music world with their pulsating performances and chart-topping singles. At the heart of this band lies Jakob “JR” Ripp, the talented bassist whose journey from a young music enthusiast to a full-time member of Power Take Off has deeply shaped his unique sound and style. Passionate about music, his commitment and versatility continue to fuel the band’s growing success.

Jakob Ripp’s Musical Beginnings

Jakob Ripp came from a very musical family that provided the foundation for his career as a musician. He grew up with music in the house; his father, Jim Ripp, was a gifted pianist and guitarist who played a major role in Jakob’s early development in music. From a very tender age, Jakob was exposed to a variety of sounds, and his father even gave him his first piano lessons. Though Jakob’s two brothers did not pursue music, his passion for the craft blossomed early, eventually making him a key figure in Power Take Off.

At age 16, Jakob took up the bass guitar and promptly began learning songs such as “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes and Green Day’s “When I Come Around.” It wasn’t until age 19, though, that Jakob’s bond with the bass really began to form. This came in the form of an invitation from Scott Theis to handle merchandise and sound during Power Take Off shows. Still quite green in both roles at the time, Jakob’s commitment and energy shone through, and he soon became an official part of the band.

Photo Courtesy: John Flores

Joining Power Take Off and Finding His True Passion

Jakob’s big break came when Ayden Theis, Power Take Off’s drummer, asked him to learn and then play tracks like “Breaking the Law” by Judas Priest and “Kingdom of the Car” by Jason and the Scorchers. That was the spark that really lit Jakob’s fire for the bass, and he started playing with The Cattlemen. This project included Ayden as a singer and guitarist. His growing love for the bass led him to his current role in Power Take Off after the invitation from Scott.

Faced with the task of mastering the entire Power Take Off setlist in just two months, Jakob’s commitment paid off. By the time he officially joined the band, Jakob had proven himself a reliable and skilled musician. He was given the nickname “JR” by Scott, marking his transformation into a key member of the band.

Power Take Off: Chart Success and Future Tours

Since Jakob joined Power Take Off, the band has seen incredible success. Power Take Off’s music is described as a blend of rock, pop, and punk, resulting in a unique sound that fans worldwide can hear. When their single “Revolution” hit #23 on the SMR Top 50 in the week of September 9, 2025, the band finally achieved huge chart success. “Revolution” marked the band’s fourth consecutive single to make the top 50 on the SMR Mainstream/Active Rock Chart, continuing a string of successes.

Success for “Revolution” speaks to the band’s hard work and their collaboration with notable producer Malcolm Springer. Recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, at Stoner Creek Studios, the single features production from Springer, who is known to have produced multi-platinum artists. Power Take Off also recorded in Detroit with Chuck Alkazian, another renowned producer; a new release is scheduled for January 2026.

The band’s popularity continues to grow, and their following is growing as they prepare for several large tours. Power Take Off recently completed a tour that included an appearance at the Launch Music Conference and Festival in Dallas, Texas, in October of 2025. The band also toured through 10 Southern and Southwest states. Looking ahead to 2026, Power Take Off has several tours lined up, including “The Welcome Home Tour” with multi-platinum group Rehab and “The Borderlands Tour” with former Saving Abel frontman Scotty Austin. These tours, among others yet to be announced, are set to propel Power Take Off to new heights.

Photo Courtesy: John Flores

The Many Talents of Jakob Ripp

Few people know that Jakob Ripp is a man of many talents aside from his musical prowess. When he is off-stage, he deeply respects the instruments he plays, as is reflected in his vast collection of bass guitars and vintage amplifiers. His love for crafts does not stop there, as Jakob is also into restoring cars, trucks, and motorcycles. With his mastery in welding and expertise in fixing just about everything, he is also respected not only as a musician but also as a very versatile handyman.

Another very important aspect of Jakob’s personality is his adventurous nature. He and his friends like to explore abandoned houses in Wisconsin’s woods and enjoy late-night cruises. These types of adventures give a thrilling dimension to his life and balance his hardworking nature with excitement and discovery.

A very special moment in Jakob’s life was when, in January 2025, his father, Jim Ripp, joined Power Take Off on a trip to Nashville to record five songs for their full length record Revolution. Jim is an amazing keyboardist, and he played all the keys during the Nashville sessions. This was one of those moments in Jakob’s career when he finally got to work with his father in the studio-a moment that came full circle in his musical journey.

The Future of Power Take Off: What’s Next for Jakob Ripp?

Jakob Ripp’s journey with Power Take Off is only just beginning, and his potential keeps on growing. The band’s growing success, involvement in major tours, and the release of new music will ensure that Power Take Off stays at the top of the rock scene for many years to come. His role in this successful story cannot be downplayed, as his skill and passion have helped shape the band’s sound and contributed to their continued rise.

Jakob Ripp’s journey is one that any Power Take Off fan surely keeps an eye on. His commitment, musical ability, and adventurousness make him an essential component of the band’s identity and success.