Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

Jacob Whitesides, Why? [Photo Credit: Double U / BMG Rights Management]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?.

4 out of 5 stars


Jacob Whitesides • Why? • Double U • Release: 9.9.16
Photo Credit: Double U

 

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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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