Teen pop musician Jacob Whitesides shines on soulful promo single “Lovesick,” which appears on his forthcoming album, Why?.
“I had true love now I got none cuz I’m lovesick.” 18-year old up-and-coming artist Jacob Whitesides introduces himself to the world on “Lovesick.” “Lovesick” serves as a promo single from Whitesides’ debut, Why?, which arrives September 9, 2016. Is “Lovesick” the “cat’s meow?” Yes – it’s a stellar single.
“Lovesick” opens excellently with hums (“hmm”), setting the tone for the record which permeates with soulfulness. Among soulful aspects, the groove has a throwback vibe – a mix between jazz and retro-soul. In addition to the percussion, the excellent production includes organ, guitar, and background vocals. The background vocals particularly shine on “no, no, no” and “yeah, yeah, yeah.”
The lead vocals by Whitesides are superb. He has a welcome lightness, easy-going quality about his pipes. Perhaps he dislikes “boyish” as a characterization for his pipes, but it’s the utmost compliment. Among the elite vocals is the falsetto towards the end. It’s a subtle approach taking the melodic line up an octave, but blends well with his middle register (standard vocals).
Finally, the chorus is catchy – among the selling points:
“Because I’m lovesick And there ain’t no cure Cause I keep on coming back for more Oh no, no, no (oh no, no, no) I’m lovesick Guess I got the blues Doctor help I don’t know what to do.”
Final Thoughts
All in all, “Lovesick” is groovy and incredibly soulful. Whitesides showcases a fine set of pipes in which he never over-sings. The chorus is nothing short of infectious. Sound and enjoyable, Whitesides is onto something with “Lovesick.” A great foreshadow to his forthcoming album Why?.
Jacob Whitesides • Why? • Double U • Release: 9.9.16
Photo Credit: Double U