Texas Tech University

Rise & Research: Christopher Smith on Music, Coffeehouses and Community Building

Jacob Gordon

January 6, 2026

SOM Faculty Chris Smith at coffeeshop in conversation with the producer

Christopher Smith enters J&B Coffee Co. with the energy of a person coming home. There appears to be a little bounce in his step, as if walking through the coffee shop’s doors relieved some of the tension in his shoulders. He smiles widely as he approaches the counter and checks in with the two baristas working hard to keep the customers well caffeinated.

Read the rest of the story on TTU Rise & Research.