Cody Jinks Biography: Instagram, Real Name, Net Worth, Songs, Family, Birthplace

Meredith Cody Jinks — known professionally as Cody Jinks — is an American singer-songwriter who evolved from a teenage thrash-metal frontman into one of the most successful independent artists in modern outlaw country.

Born on August 18, 1980, in the Fort Worth/Haltom City area of Texas, Jinks builds bridges between classic country storytelling, Texas/Red Dirt grit, and a hard-earned authenticity that fans worldwide connect with.

Profile

• Full Name: Meredith Cody Jinks
• Stage Name: Cody Jinks
• Born: August 18, 1980
• Age: 45 years old (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Haltom City, Texas, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Musician
• Religion: Christian (reported)
• Spouse: Rebecca Jinks
• Children: 2
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: Approximately $8 million (estimated, 2025)

Early life and musical beginnings

Cody Jinks grew up in Haltom City, Texas. He learned basic country guitar from his father at about age 16 but gravitated first toward heavy metal — forming and fronting a thrash-metal band called Unchecked Aggression in the late 1990s and early 2000s. That band experience shaped his stage presence and work ethic, but by the mid-2000s Jinks shifted toward the country music he’d grown up with.

Transition to country and independent grind

After taking a break from music following Unchecked Aggression, Jinks restarted his career as a country artist around 2008 and released several independent recordings over the next decade. Early albums and EPs (including the 2012 release 30 and the Blacksheep EP) helped him build a grassroots following through relentless touring and word-of-mouth. His DIY approach — owning his catalog and working outside the mainstream Nashville machine — became a core part of his identity.

Breakthrough: I’m Not the Devil (2016)

Cody Jinks’ breakout moment arrived with the 2016 album I’m Not the Devil. Released independently on August 12, 2016, the record cracked mainstream attention by debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, marking a turning point in his reach and reputation. The album’s raw honesty, haunting melodies, and outlaw themes connected with both traditional country fans and a growing audience looking for authenticity.

Continued growth: key albums and milestones

• The Massacre Begins (with Unchecked Aggression, 2002) — thrash-metal roots.
• 30 (2012) — early solo country work.
• I’m Not the Devil (2016) — breakout album; No. 4 on Top Country Albums.
• Lifers (2018) — critical and commercial follow-up.
• Change the Game (2024) — introspective project released during a period of personal change.
• In My Blood (2025) — announced/issued 2025 release continuing his independent streak.

Style, themes, and influences

Musically, Jinks is rooted in outlaw and neo-traditional country, with clear Southern rock and Americana influences. Lyrically his work revisits classic country topics — heartbreak, redemption, regret, blue-collar struggles — but often with a modern, confessional edge.

Live show and band

Cody Jinks tours heavily with a backing band often referred to as The Tone Deaf Hippies. His live performances are noted for their intensity, singalong-ready choruses, and the chemistry between Jinks and his audience — a factor that’s helped the independent artist sell-out venues without mainstream radio support.

Independence, fan culture, and industry recognition

Jinks’ independence — owning releases and operating outside the major-label pipeline — is central to his story. He’s cultivated a loyal fanbase and industry outlets have recognized his role in reshaping how independent country artists reach audiences.

Personal life and challenges

Cody Jinks is relatively private about many personal details, but he has been candid in interviews about struggles with addiction and life changes. In 2024 coverage, Jinks publicly discussed quitting drinking and reflecting on how recovery and maturity have influenced his songwriting and outlook.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where was Cody Jinks born?

Born August 18, 1980, in the Fort Worth/Haltom City area of Texas.

What genre of music does Cody Jinks perform?

Outlaw country/Texas country with elements of Americana and Southern rock.

What was Cody Jinks’ first major album?

I’m Not the Devil (2016) — his breakout album.

Did Cody Jinks start in a metal band?

Yes — Unchecked Aggression was his early thrash-metal band before transitioning to country.

Is Cody Jinks signed to a major label?

No — he has released music independently and built a strong DIY career.

Is his family life public?

Jinks generally keeps family details private; public coverage focuses on his music and touring.

Conclusion

Cody Jinks’ path from heavy metal to outlaw-country mainstay shows how craft, honesty, and independence can build a devoted audience. His discography and live legacy make him a standout figure in modern country music.