Jon Newlin grew up in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, but spent his summers at the Association for Research & Enlightenment Camp in Rural Retreat, Virginia. Fieldtrips to fiddler's conventions in Southwest, Virginia were a staple activity for A.R.E. campers. Sitting in the bleachers in front of the stage, Jon soaked the music up like a sponge. After a brief adolescent stint with bagpipes, Jon began playing guitar, mandolin & finally the fiddle.

A long time resident of the North Carolina Triangle, Jon has performed and recorded with a number of groups including The Landfill Ramblers, The Solstice Assembly, New Hope Harmony and The Maudlin Brothers.