Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Javier Colon

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 7, 2026

Discover the career path of Javier Colon, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Javier Colon is an American singer-songwriter known for his "acoustic soul" style. He gained experience as a member of EmcQ and The Derek Trucks Band and worked with various musicians before pursuing a solo career. Initially signed to Capitol Records (2002-2006) under the name Javier, he later became an independent artist. Colon rose to national prominence in 2011 as the winner of the inaugural season of NBC's "The Voice," securing a $100,000 prize and a contract with Universal Republic Records, although he later parted ways with the label in 2012.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

July 2000: Successful Audition

In July 2000, Javier Colon had a successful audition for The Derek Trucks Band.

August 2000: Joining The Derek Trucks Band

In August 2000, Javier Colon joined The Derek Trucks Band after a recommendation from Eric Krasno and a successful audition.

April 2002: Leaving The Derek Trucks Band

In April 2002, Javier Colon, at 24 years old, left The Derek Trucks Band to pursue a solo career after being signed by Capitol Records.

2002: Signing with Capitol Records

In 2002, Javier Colon signed with Capitol Records, and was known as artist Javier during his time there.

2006: Contract Termination with Capitol Records

In 2006, Javier Colon's contract with Capitol Records was terminated, and he became an independent artist under his own label, Javier Colon Music.

2009: Featured on Vanessa Williams' Album

In 2009, Javier Colon was featured as a singer and songwriter for the song "October Sky" on Vanessa Williams' vocal album, The Real Thing.

May 17, 2011: Advancement in The Voice

On May 17, 2011, during The Voice's Battle Round, Javier Colon was selected by Adam Levine to continue in the show after a performance of "Stand By Me".

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June 22, 2011: Advancement on The Voice

On June 22, 2011, Javier Colon advanced in The Voice competition with the highest score on Team Adam, beating Casey Weston.

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June 29, 2011: Winning The Voice Season 1

On June 29, 2011, Javier Colon won the first season of NBC's "The Voice," receiving $100,000 and a Universal Republic recording contract. He also performed "Landslide" with Stevie Nicks.

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2011: Winner of The Voice Season 1

In 2011, Javier Colon won season 1 of NBC's The Voice, receiving $100,000 and a recording contract with Universal Republic Records.

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June 7, 2012: Departure from Universal Republic Records

On June 7, 2012, Javier Colon announced his departure from Universal Republic Records due to a lack of support for his album "Come Through for You".

2012: Departure from Universal Republic

In 2012, Javier Colon decided to part ways with Universal Republic Records.

2013: Launch of 'Inside Voice with Javier Colon'

In 2013, Javier Colon launched "Inside Voice with Javier Colon", a weekly show on Back9Network, co-hosting with Jenn Bosworth, to discuss season 5 of The Voice.

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