In January 2006, Jacob got married to his high school sweetheart, Tammy. They remained in this married bonding for about three years and they finally got divorced in 2009.
Jacob grew up in Abbotsford. It is said that he was just 4 when he got his first taste of piano. He learned to play it from his aunt who is also an avid pianist. He began playing guitar when he was 12. He received his elementary education from Senator Reid Elementary School and Mennonite Educational Institute. He also attended Yale Secondary School for several years. He formed the band, Hedley in 2003 along with his four friends. Their debut album, Hedley was released on the 6th of September 2005 and it was followed by their second album, Famous Last Words.