The characteristic sound of the jug is low and hoarse, below the higher pitch of the fiddle, harmonica, and the other instruments in the band.

[2] Jugs will also produce sound at their main resonance frequency when air is blown across the top opening.

The pitch of a bottle played in this way may be controlled by changing its volume by adding or emptying contents.

A version of the jug known as the botija was played in early Cuban musical forms such as the son.

Josh Smith, (1979–present) of the Glade City Rounders, is one of the most famous jug players touring and playing live.