Rogue Audio: Carving a Unique Path in the Car Audio Industry - Jon Kent Interview

How did you get your start with Rogue Audio?

Jon Kent: There are two of us at Rogue Car Audio. We both had previous experience working for different companies in the car audio industry. After facing the disappointment of layoffs, my partner Rolando ventured into working for various shops, taking on freelance projects for custom box builds and fabrication work. Over time, he managed to save up enough funds and decided to take the leap and start Rogue Car Audio. A year later, I joined him, and here we are, going strong in our fourth year. What's even more incredible is that we've earned five World Championships in MECA Dueling Demos using our speakers, and that's all thanks to the belief and support of our competitors.

How did you come up with the brand name "Rogue Car Audio"?

Jon Kent: "Rogue" holds a special meaning for us. It represents forging our own path, diverging from the norms and conventions of the industry. We wanted to challenge the stereotype that pro audio speakers are all about sheer volume at the expense of sound quality. At Rogue Car Audio, we take immense pride in selecting premium parts and crafting speakers that deliver both power and exceptional sound quality.

How long have you been involved in organizing and hosting car shows?

Jon Kent: My journey into organizing and hosting car shows began around 2012 or 2013. It started with a charity show that I initiated. Then, in 2014, I was given the opportunity to manage the audio segment of The Made of Steel Show. Since then, we've expanded our repertoire to hosting around seven shows each year, with a couple more in the pipeline that I'm currently working on.

Your shows consist of more than just Car Audio; can you tell us about the idea behind combining car audio with 'normal' car shows?

Jon Kent: While this is something Jeremy can elaborate on more, the idea behind merging car audio with traditional car shows is to bring together people with automotive interests. It's undeniable that at some point, every car enthusiast wanted more bass and better audio in their vehicles. By creating events that encompass all aspects of custom vehicles, we provide a space where everyone can enjoy and appreciate the diverse automotive culture.

What are some of the most memorable experiences you've had with Rogue Audio and your car shows?

Jon Kent: There have been numerous unforgettable moments in my journey with Rogue Car Audio. One that stands out is the first time I walked around a larger show and spotted cars and trucks proudly showcasing our products. As a small company, that was a monumental moment for both Rolando and me. It demonstrated the impact and reach of our brand.

Regarding car shows, the most memorable aspect is the remarkable growth we've witnessed. Creating events where people can come together, have fun, hang out with friends, and indulge in their passion for bass and custom vehicles is incredibly rewarding. The sense of community and camaraderie that these events foster is truly special.

Jon Kent's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one's passion. His dedication to Rogue Car Audio and his commitment to organizing exceptional car shows have left an indelible mark on the car audio and automotive community. As Rogue Car Audio continues to thrive, it's clear that Jon Kent's innovative spirit and dedication to excellence will continue to drive the brand forward, inspiring enthusiasts and car audio aficionados along the way.