Whitton Blog

Whitton's News and Live Appearances Update!

2012-02-25T14:53:00.002-08:00

Happy Spring Everyone! I hope you're having a wonderful start in 2012! My 10 day northwestern tour went smashingly! Such a beautiful experience each day, truly! My traveling bandmate, Ben Burget and I sailed up north until we hit Seattle, WA, where we played at the Benaroya Hall! One of my best shows yet!! Stay tuned, there will be video and tour photos to be shared shortly.

Live at the Benaroya Hall in Seattle, WA. Photo taken by Tim Durkan.

Below are some updates on news and some March appearances. Thank you to everyone that came out to support me on my tour!

Buzzing bees and blooming apple trees,

~ Whitton

NEWS

~~Exciting news about my brother Michael's film, "Exit Strategy", with Big Boy from KPWR Power 106 & Kevin Hart. Also, produced by family friend, Kellie Maltagliati! TICKETS are on sale MARCH 9TH! I've already gotten the pleasure of laughin' my buns off at this movie!! It's a must see comedy. It was also fun hearing my acoustic song, "Mercy" play in the background of a scene too! Check it out!!

~~"I Fell in Love" (track on my EP) found a spot on a national commercial for a Valentine's Day promo on "Gossip Girl". The commercial is on YOUTUBE! Wow, I'm honored!

~"Apple Tree" (track of my EP) is featured in the film, "The 5th Quarter", starring Aidan Quinn, Andie MacDowell and Ryan Merriman. I've also gotten the pleasure of seeing this movie already. It's such a moving true story! A must see. It's now available on BlueRay and DVD! You can also purchase the whole sound track to this movie on iTunes!

SHOWS

March 5th - GVB RADIO INTERVIEW on the show "Indies in Motion" @ 1pm to 2pm PST on Ch1 of www.GVBRadio.com

March 7th, 21st - April 4th, 18th - May 2nd, 16th and 30th! - Residency at downtown LA's - Villain's Tavern. Every other Wednesday of the month. Starts at 9pm-midnight. 1356 Palmetto St., Los Angeles, CA 91003. 21+, great food and drinks and no cover!

March 9th - San Diego Fox Morning Show @ 9:15am. Live performance

March 11th - The Brick by Brick - "Acoustic Alliance" - 1130 Buenos Ave., San Diego, CA 92110. 21+ and $8 cover. TICKETS

Please come and be my friend!

"I Fell in Love” is featured on “Gossip Girl

2012-02-16T16:05:00.000-08:00

My song "I Fell in Love" is featured on “Gossip Girl”! YAHOO!!

Hope everyone had a lovely Valentine's Day!!

Benaroya Hall in Seattle, WA this SATURDAY!!

2012-02-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Catch my performance with Andre Feriante at the Benaroya Hall in Seattle, WA this Saturday @ 8pm! So excited! Tickets available: 206.215.4747 or http://www.seattlesymphony.org/symphony/buy/single/production.aspx?id=12206&src=t&dateid=12206%20

Valentine's Day Show in Chico, CA!!

2012-01-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

CHICO DATE ADDED: FEB. 14th - Naked Lounge - 118 West 2nd Street - Valentine's Day show @ 7pm

https://www.facebook.com/events/303080826405525/

Whitton's Northwest Tour & NEWS!

2012-01-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!
I looking forward to seeing all of you Northwesterners! I'm lucky to have my muli-talented musician friend, Ben Burget accompany me along the way. Los Angeles, San Francisco, Hayward, Eugene, Portland, Seattle and Chico here we come!!!

If you're not located near these cities, don't worry I have a tour later this year coming your way! If you have friends in these northern cities whom would like my music, please let them know! I'd love to have them at my show! Hope you all had a marvelous New Year!

~ Whitton

Ps... Stay tune LA folks! I have a special residency coming up in March! =)

Northwest Tour Schedule

LOS ANGELES, CA : Feb 1st - "The Falls Lounge" - 626 S. Spring St. • @ 10pm • 21+ • No Cover • Trio performance.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA : Feb 5th - "Hotel Utah Saloon" • 500 4th Street @ Bryant • @ 8:30pm • (415) 546-6300 • $8 cover • 21+ Sharing the stage with "The Left" • TICKETS

HAYWARD, CA : Feb 7th - "The Bistro" • 1001 B Street. 94541 • @ 8-11pm • No cover • 21+ Sharing the stage with "Graham Richards".

EUGENE, OR : Feb 9th - Cozmic • 199 W 8th • @ 4-6pm • Happy Hour • All Ages

SEATTLE, WA : Feb 10th - Private House Concert • Seward Park • @ 7pm • Sharing stage with Sarah Schmidt!

SEATTLE, WA : Feb 11th - "Benaroya Hall"- "In The Theater of Love" event • 200 University Street 98101 • @ 8pm • Sharing the stage with Andre Feriante, Overton Berry, Steve Thoreson, Swil Kanim, Stella Rossi and Jeff Davis • Tickets available at: 206.215.4747 or TICKETS

PORTLAND, OR : Feb 12th - "The Landmark Saloon" • 4847 SE Division • @ 8pm • Sharing the stage with "Jake Ray" and "Yonder" • No Cover

CHICO, CA : : Feb 14th - The Naked Lounge • 118 West 2nd Street, 95928 • @ 7pm • Valentines Day Show!

GVB RADIO : WORLDWIDE : March 5th - Indies In Motion • LIVE RADIO INTERVIEW • Monday from 1pm to 2pm PST on Ch1 of www.GVBRadio.com • Hollywood, CA.

SAN DIEGO, CA : March 11th - Acoustic Alliance at The Brick by Brick • 1130 Buenos Ave. 92110 • Sharing the stage with Steve Harris • Ryan Hiller • Rob Carona • Ian Alexander • Lenny Morris • Seaholm Mackintosh • Carl Durant • Tim Flack • Jessica Hull • 21+ • TICKETS

Please be my friend!

Reviews!

Deli Magazine - Whitton Wants You to "Turn Off The Light!"

West Hollywood Patch - "Whitton Brings a Sense of Flair to Modern Day Songwriting"

Cliché Magazine - "Whitton: Vintage-Inspired Songstress on the Rise to Stardom" by BRITTANY REDDEN

Reno Gazette Journal - Reno native Whitton takes flight on Rare Bird, will perform Saturday

The NeoConartist by Craig Boehman - Album Review for Whitton's "Rare Bird"

Love Lost - The Temper Trap

2012-01-11T00:09:00.000-08:00

Captivating.

HOB Shot!

2011-12-30T13:12:00.000-08:00

A phone shot of Ben Burget (trumpet & piano) and I at the House of Blues in San Diego

A New Song a Brewin'!

2011-12-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

Recording vocal ideas on my new song, "Show Me"

with John Avila, Angela Michael Kiesel and Ben

Burget! Yahoo! Soundin' real good!

STAY TUNED!

Salads!

2011-12-26T14:18:00.001-08:00

Do you know you that you can tell a lot in a person by the salad they choose to eat? It's true! Here's mine. Wonder what mine says... What's yours like?

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!

House of Blues - San Diego TOMORROW!

2011-12-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

Hey SD folk,
I'm going to be performing an acoustic show at The House of Blues on the Voodoo Stage at 7pm. No Cover. Sharing the stage with act: James Morris, The Mickie Arnett Band, the prizms and The Fynd

Hope to see ya there!

House of Blues, 1055 5th Ave, San Diego, CA

“New Classic Music For Tomorrow” Write-Up

2011-12-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

A nice little write-up in "New Classic Music For Tomorrow" about my new album, "Rare Bird". Check it!

DEC6

Whitton-Rare Bird

Posted on December 6, 2011 by newclassicmusicfortomorrow

Whitton-Rare Bird

Whitton – Rare Bird

Sultry, poppy, sweet, elegant all descriptions of Jaime Whitton lead singer of Whitton. Jamie has a voice that has many different qualities, so she is easily able to shift from easy flowing folk into more sultry jazz influences, a bit of Billie Holiday mixed with Melanie, with a dash of Dusty Springfield or Shelby Lynne thrown in and a trek into pop standards. There in lies the appeal of Whitton, the band are able to reach broader audiences by dipping into many different pools of music and handling all of them well.
Beginning with Turn off the Light, Whitton delivers a happy sounding pop ditty with twist and turns engaging the listener with each change of the vocals melody. Not to be outdone Rare Bird take on the air of sixties psychedelic folk rock, with a pop feel.
Until the End the next track starts as one of those sultry, blues, jazz influenced tracks that quickly bounce into a fun filled Tin Pan Alley pop track with its bouncing piano and horn arrangement, with a banjo making a suggestive appearance to cement the roots of the song
Monster is probably the most Billie Holiday influenced song, though Jaime uses whispers of Holidays’ style in different songs though out the CD.
No matter if it is the stark beginning of B Sting with invokes the memory of Billie Holiday but quickly shifts into a fun swing number that would make Minnie the Moocher proud. Or the
Follow up, New York with its Tin Pan Alley feel with vocals that bring back memories of sixties female artist.
Whitton mixes and blends styles that take listeners on journeys of musical styles and variations on those styles with very subtle use of instruments in each song. Like the trumpet on the end of New York.
The Tin Pan Alley style songwriting is rich in each song, with memories of great songs written by Carole King or Laura Nyro come to mind. The jazz influence is never falls back into a dated sound, instead propels the songs with its combination of styles into the future creating a new sound that is unique to Whitton.

http://newclassicmusicfortomorrow.wordpress.com/2011/12/06/whitton-rare-bird-2/

2011-11-20T11:27:00.001-08:00

My grandpa's 5th redheaded poodle named Fred is gettin' ready for the holidays, so get your Whitton De Fleur Flower pins and my new album release "Rare Bird" now! http://www.whittonmusic.com/#!store

Whitton Store Online!

2011-11-18T14:41:00.000-08:00

Introducing Whitton’s Package Deal! Check it out!

ONLINE STORE

Whitton's LIVE performance and interview on: "Love That Dog Hollywood!"

2011-11-18T14:40:00.000-08:00

To hear my interview please go to: http://gvbradio.com/archives/doglove-111611.mp3 I come on at 54:20. But please listen to the whole show! Addie Daddie is such a cool animal host! This show is great.

Whitton on GVBRadio.com today at 2:45pm! Call in!

2011-11-16T12:20:00.000-08:00

Today, all you animal and music lovers!!! I'll be doing a live interview and performance of a few acoustic songs on: http://gvbradio.com/love-that-dog-hollywood . You're welcome to call in and chat with us! 323.522.5482.

Cliché Magazine Review!

2011-11-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Whitton: Vintage-Inspired Songstress on the Rise to Stardom

BRITTANY REDDEN OCTOBER 31, 2011 0

Singer-songwriter Whitton takes vintage to a whole new level with her timeless voice and sense of style. The Nevada-born crooner sat down with Cliché and told us all about her childhood, road to fame and what’s to come in her life as a budding artist. Check out Whitton’s newest album “Rare Bird” on her website or Facebook page now!

Photo by Jeff Fasano

Cliché: Tell me about yourself, where did you grow up, where are you living now?

Whitton: Well, I grew up in Reno and I went to catholic school. I started dazzling Reno folks at the age of 6 in a theater show called “Sunshine Generation” where I would sing in all the old age homes. Now I’ve finished my new album “Rare Bird” which I’ve been in the studio for two years making, so I’m just getting my touring boots on and getting ready to go out and tour the US this coming spring. I typically like to tour with only about a four piece because you know how much money that is to have such a big band on the road, but I have a CD release on the 22^nd in Reno with my full 10-piece band.

C: What was it like growing up in Reno?

W: As you can tell my stage name is Whitton, but my first name legally is Jaime. My parents decided to have 6 kids because of the movie sound of music. My mother cut her hair like Julie Andrews, she made all of our clothes out of curtains, and she sings and plays the ukulele. My dad is an actor in Hollywood, James Lawrence Whitton, so they decided to raise us there and now we all have our own musical endeavors.

C: Did you always know this is what you wanted to do?

W: I graduated high school when I was 17 and then had a record deal in Malaysia with my first band called “Jaime and the Blue Suits,” which was a big 10-piece band. We played jazzy techno-blues music, a very interesting, very European sound. So, that actually fell apart and from there I joined a reggae band for a couple of months. At the end of my 17^th year I moved with my sister, Stacey Whitton-Summers, to Myrtle Beach, SC where we recorded my second album, but our first album together. She’s actually a Marilyn Monroe, Shania Twain and Gretchen Wilson impersonator. I was so fortunate to get to travel with her because she goes all over the world. We would just go play music on the side. It was really a fun experience. However, as far as this album I’m just releasing, I saved all my pennies that I made over the last few years installing voice and data cables for computer connection, building microwaves and radios for corporate buildings and then bartending on weekends. So I really saved all my money to get the top players, the top recordings, the top engineers and even down to the illustration, so I’m very, very proud of this new record.

C: Can you define for us your current musical style and what influences how you developed that?

W: I’ll tell you how this endeavor got started. I play guitar, and anytime you play guitar and you’re just a vocalist you have acoustic music or folk music or Americano or what not its all in the same family. So I was playing guitar at an open mic in Pasadena and there were four people in the audience and my current producer with this album, Ian Coyne, was one of them. I had just been hired for a 1940s review show on a cruise line and I was getting ready to leave and he wanted to write a song together. I decided to go in and we wrote a song together and it was immediately placed in a film called The Fifth Quarter with Andie Macdowel and Aiden Quinn. So then I thought, “How can I leave now? I can’t leave!” So we just ended up writing a handful of songs. He produced a couple of my acoustic songs. I’ve also had the liberty of writing with a couple of great writers on the album in Joe Solo, who’s written for Macy Gray and Fergie, and Peter Fox who’s written for Rachel Yamagata, so its been quite the experience. As far as my music, you take my natural acoustic sound and intertwine it with a little big band, singer-songwriter stuff and that’s what the sound came out to be on this album.

C: What about your lyrics?

W: They’re all very, very personal. I was the last of 6 kids so I have just a natural ability to observe, so I’m always observing strangers, people, family, and friends. So I do write about other people, but they all come from a very personal place.

C: Was the 40s big band idea something you’ve always been attracted to?

W: Well when I met Ian, I had a few side projects coming up where I would sing big band songs and jazz songs and blues songs, so yes. But I’ve always loved the style of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. I used to sing them in my room in front of the mirror, so I’ve always had a love for that type of music. But Iam a singer-songwriter and that’s where my roots are. My acoustic music is a little more vulnerable and melancholy sounding. I don’t know if you’re familiar with Jeff Buckley, but that’s kind of where I stem from. Ian really dissected my vocal ability and saw a little bit of vintage in it, so we built the instrumentation that was appropriate around the songs. When I met him he had never done big band or jazz music either. It’s just naturally what was developed.

C: How would you describe your fashion sense?

W: I’ve always had a love for vintage type clothing, like flowers in the hair. Actually, my sister Stacey makes these amazing flower pins that you can pin anywhere. They’re actually part of my merch called “Whitton de Fleur.” I them in my hair and they are a very vintage cloth with a little sparkle to them. Anything vintage and off-collar I am attracted to.

C: You said it took you two years to put together this album. What was that process like?

W: It took a long time, but all good things take a long time. We really crafted the songs and focused on making them the best they could be by getting the best players, building relationships and networking. That all takes time. It was definitely a process. But I’m seeking a manager right now. I have a marketing team, a publicist and a good group of people, but there’s always a time and place when you’re ready and now I’m ready to find management! I’m planning to tour all text year through the US and parts of Europe. The tour is not booked all the way but that is my intention. So in the next couple of months it just depends on who I meet, but it’s all beginning to roll and I’m very excited. I have a handful of shows coming up in the next couple of months and I have two residencies that I’m going through until the end of the year. Now I’m just getting people to my shows and by next spring definitely doing a lot of shows outside of California

C: Is there someone you dream of doing a collaboration with in the future

W: Absolutely! I would love more than anything to write and sing with a handful of artists: Rufus Wainwright, Amos Lee, Colin Hay, Ray Lamantaign. And Thom York would be absolutely… well my life could end that day!

C: So you’re big fans of those guys! Who is somebody that really inspires your music?

W: I had a friend named Shane Gooding and he was probably one of the most amazing and gifted musicians and songwriters that has ever lived. I was very close with him and he passed away of cancer three years ago at 25. He really was a huge person in my life that I walked with and just adored.

C: Who would you say your role model is?

W: I’m very, very fortunate to have such a brilliant family. All my siblings are very unique in their own way and have such a gift specifically and I admire all of them. They’ve all taught me so much.

C: Have you ever felt pressure to fit in growing up, in high school or even now?

W: Well, I was a complete loner! [laughs] I was kind of in my own world, I didn’t have a specific group of friends. I had one friend here, one friend there, I was friends with everyone! But I always had older friends that were out of school. I looked up to different mentors in music or in health and yoga, and I really look up to my family so I spend a lot of time with them.

C: Did you ever go through a rebellious stage when you were growing up?

W: Sure! I made tie-dye clothes and traveled to all the festivals around California and Nevada selling hemp necklaces and tie-dye clothes. That definitely has a package of being a little bit of a rebel. I did date a guy in high school that drove a Harley. He used to show up at my high school with a rose in his mouth and pick me up! He was only about five years older, but it was still the fact that some guy on a Harley was picking me up. He used to drop me off at the end of my street so my parents wouldn’t see.

C: Have you ever had your heart broken?

W: Oh yeah, of course!

C: What kind of advice would you give someone to get through something like that?

W: I really think real heartbreak never goes away. It sits with you and you either accept it or you don’t and that’s how you survive in your life; just accepting a lot and trying to do the best that you can to deal with it. I don’t really have the best advice for that sort of thing!

C: What would we be surprised to know about you?

W: I’m a really good cook!

C: What kind of things do you like to cook?

W: I’m a nutrition freak, so I do try to mix different vegetables and fruits and all sorts of fun green things in juices. I make a mean peanut butter and jelly sandwich with fresh berries and nuts. I just kind of put things together! My mom had to piece things together in the fridge if we didn’t have a ton of food, so I’ve just learned to do that and make masterpieces out of almost nothing.

C: What do you like to do in your down time?

W: I toured up to Seattle and I have a friend up there whose dad said to me, “What do you like to do when you’re not working?” I thought about it and I realized, wow, even on vacation I’m always working! Sometimes that can be overwhelming, so even on vacation I love doing yoga. Another really therapeutic thing for me is gardening; I love to garden. It goes with my cooking. I’m actually working on a cookbook for my merchandise. I’ve been trying to rack my brain on what’s different, what unique merchandise can I come up with. I love to support local artists and I’ve been looking into getting a person who makes mugs by molding them and making them look really cool and authentic. I already make these matchboxes with my face on it for your fridge and my sister’s flowers. I try to be as creative as possible. But a cookbook is definitely on my agenda.

C: From here what does your future look like?

W: This coming year while I’m touring (probably the beginning of spring or summer) I’ll be working on my next album. I have 40 songs under my belt that I’m finessing and now I’m working with a new producer named John Avila, who is the bassist of Oingo Boingo. I’m so excited about working with the top guys in the studio and I hope for a release next fall or next winter after the promoting “Rare Bird”

C: You seem like a very down to earth person. Is there a motto you try to live your life by?

W: I was raised catholic, but I don’t necessarily think I’m a religious person. I’m more of a spiritual person. I connect with nature and just try to get to a place where I can mediate and just think about the good things in my life and look at other peoples’ life and be thankful every day for what I do have.

Reno Gazette Review - written by Forrest Hartman

2011-10-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

Reno native Whitton takes flight on 'Rare Bird,' will perform Saturday

Written by Forrest Hartman

FILED UNDER

Entertainment

Jaime Whitton says she spent the last two years pouring her soul into “Rare Bird,” a ten-song CD that was released Sept. 24.
“It took me that long to really save all my pennies to get the top musicians and the top mixer, engineer and mastering guy, and designer for the cover,” she said. “So, I’m very, very, very proud of it.”
Saturday, the 28-year-old singer-songwriter will show off the fruits of her labor during a CD release concert at Cantina Los Tres Hombres in Sparks. The show will not only celebrate “Rare Bird’s” release, it will be something of a homecoming performance. Whitton – who uses only her last name on stage – was born and raised in Reno.
“My mom grew up in L.A. and my dad grew up in Reno,” she said. “My dad moved to Hollywood to become an actor, and that’s how they met. Then, they moved back to Reno to have six kids.”
The youngest of those six children, Whitton said the movie musical “The Sound of Music” inspired her parents to have a large family. So, it’s not surprising that their household shared similarities with the Von Trapp siblings depicted on screen.

Whitton's video for 'Turn Off The Light'

“I started singing when I was six,” Whitton said. “All of us kids were in our own musical endeavors. … My first four siblings, they were in big band. You know, my brother played trumpet and my sister played saxophone. My other sister played trombone and my brother plays guitar and drums.”
Many of Whitton’s siblings, including Reno-based sister Stacey Whitton-Summers, are still active in the arts. Whitton-Summers is a singer and stage performer who works as a celebrity impersonator, portraying the likes of Shania Twain and Marilyn Monroe.
Although Whitton, and the majority of her family now live in Southern California, she said she visits Reno about four times a year. Her trip this weekend will be special, though, as it’s allowing her to show off the new collection of tunes that she worked so hard for.
“The feedback’s been really great, but as we all know it takes awhile to really get some buzz going,” she said. “So, I’m excited for it. I’ve got my touring boots on, so I’m ready to hit the road. … We just put our tears and blood into that album.”
“Rare Bird” is a jazzy collection that takes traditional pop influences and blends them into a sound reminiscent of the music of the 1940s. In part, that’s because Whitton’s voice shares traits with classic jazz singers like Billie Holiday. It’s also due to the vision of the album’s producer and co-writer Ian Coyne.
Whitton said she used to perform more stripped down material that featured mostly her voice and acoustic guitar. A chance run in with Coyne changed everything.
“I was used to playing guitar solo and doing my own tours,” she said. “My acoustic stuff, it’s kind of hard to categorize. It’s just acoustic. … When I met Ian, he had this whole vision of developing a bigger sound.”
That sound leans heavily on jazzy horn parts and swinging rhythms that reinforce the nostalgic feel of the music. Although Whitton is hoping to spend a lot of time touring in 2012, she’s the first one to admit that it’s tough to break through in the music industry, particularly these days.
That’s one reason she had to self-fund “Rare Bird,” an effort that has required her to work two part-time jobs for the last several years. Despite the struggles, Whitton has had some success in the music industry. Tracks from her previous recording, a self-titled EP, were placed in two 2011 movies: “The 5th Quarter” and “Exit Strategy.” She was also featured as a guest vocalist on an episode of the popular Showtime TV series “Dexter.”
As for concerns about the instability of the music industry, Whitton said she just keeps moving forward.

“It frightens me sometimes when I really think about it, but I don’t really have another alternative,” she said. “I mean music is just something I have to do.” As long as I’m doing it, I think I’ll be OK.”

If you go

What: Whitton concert and CD release party. Also on the bill is local band Jelly Bread.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22
Where: Cantina Los Tres Hombres, 926 Victorian Ave., Sparks
Admission: Free
Learn more: To learn more about Jaime Whitton or purchase her music, visit www.whittonmusic.com

http://www.rgj.com/article/20111019/ENT/111019010/Reno-native-Whitton-takes-flight-Rare-Bird-will-perform-Saturday?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Local%20Life

Reno Tahoe Tonight Review by Oliver X

2011-10-18T13:12:00.001-07:00

Singer-Songwriter Whitton to Host Record Release Oct 22 for new album “Rare Bird” w/ Special Guests Tyler Stafford & Jelly Bread

by Oliver Ex on Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 1:03am

Singer-songwriter Whitton has taken giant steps toward break through success in her music career. With an impressive list of song placements and major club appearances already under her belt, it is delightful to see the Reno native on the climb and making good in the industry. We have local music impresario Todd South to thank for sending the talented artist and her publicist our way to help promote her upcoming record release event at Cantina Los Tres Hombres in Sparks on October 22, 2011 @ 7 p.m.

Whitton’s videos and press materials show an artist on the rise, with an easy stage presence—evident even early on in her career travels. The willowy blonde chanteuse and veteran road dog with the stunning Bettie Davis eyes, has a decidedly throwback persona that melds a juke joint jazz tonality, with light inflections at the end of her phrasings that recall Billie Holiday. Her voice is sultry and emotive, with a round, soft feminine sweetness that can easily swing from folky to throaty and smoky. Somehow these elements combine to make Whitton’s sound both fresh and familiar.

Whitton has been a guest vocalist on Showtime’s Emmy-Nominated hit series “Dexter” and her recent tour in support of “Rare Bird” has brought her to the best venues in Los Angeles and Vegas, including performances at the Hotel Café and The House of Blues.

Her new LP, “Rare Bird” is available now with 10 new tracks including several co-written by Peter Fox (Rachel Yamagata) and Joe Solo (Macy Grey) and mixed by engineer Michael James (New Radicals, Hole). Several tracks have already received feature film placements in: SHE WANTS ME (starring Charlie Sheen, Hilary Duff and Josh Gad) and METH HEAD (starring Lukas Haas, Wilson Cruz and Necar Zadegan). The “Turn off the Light” music video is also available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efa2Vtox40M

For a sneak-peek of Whitton’s LP “Rare Bird”, please go to: www.whittonmusic.com.

Tracks from Whitton’s previous, self-titled EP also received placement in the 2011 films: THE 5TH QUARTER (starring Aidan Quinn, Andie MacDowell, and Ryan Merriman), EXIT STRATEGY (starring radio host Big Boy from Power 106, Jameel Saleem and Kevin Hart), and was featured on Delta Air Lines Sonicbids Radio Channel and in Delta’s “Sky Magazine”. WHITTON has recorded three full-length albums with acclaimed producers David Hauser (Redbone, Supreme Beings of Leisure, Iron Butterfly), Kevin White (writer for Billy Ray Cyrus) and Ronan Chris Murphy (King Crimson, Dishwalla). She also has won numerous awards including “Best Female Acoustic Rock Artist” by the New York Music Festival.

We spoke to the artist by phone and online to get her views on the music business, her busy career and her upcoming record release.

Reno Tahoe Tonight: You worked with some accomplished producers and writers on your new album “Rare Bird.” Talk about your songwriting process, and the collaborative experience you had while recording the record.

Whitton: Each song off my new album “Rare Bird” came from a very personal place. Most of them were songs I wrote on guitar years before, but took the lyrics from them and put them over new chords and arrangements. With my producer/writer, Ian Coyne, he had a huge influence on the arrangement and production of this album. Being brilliant in his craft, Ian dissected the characteristics of my singing voice and we built around it musically. I also was fortunate to write with a handful of writers, Peter Fox (Rachel Yamagata), Joe Solo (Macy Gray) and the exquisite jazz pianist, Michael LeVan. The process was enlightening and very eye opening. I learned so much from everyone who played and wrote on this album. I’ll never forget it. It’s made me realize so much about myself and what I want.

Reno Tahoe Tonight: You’ve done exceptionally well with film and industry song placements. How early on did you discover the importance of the publishing side of the business? What career-building advice can you give Reno’s talented artists seeking breakout opportunities in the industry?

Whitton: Well, I can’t give too much advice on this because I’m still climbing the ladder of success!! I think the most important thing to do is enjoy what you’re doing. If it feels like work and beats you up until you’re blue in the face, it might be time to look into doing something else with your life. My advice is own everything. Own your recordings, equipment and do your best to hold onto your publishing rights. But realize at the same time that you have to give some to get some. To me, the only real way of getting a strong foot in the door is creating buzz—a fan base. And how to do that is touring and TV/film placement. If you’re lucky to get a great publicist or manager, that makes your job soooooo much easier. I love the job of being the musician! Management/publicity can help get you interviews/reviews/press in the cities you tour through and much, much more. It’s an arduous battle representing yourself. You can do it… but most people don’t like to deal with the artist. Besides, being a salesperson isn’t one of my best qualities, I must admit. Trying to pitch yourself wears you out—or at least me.

Reno Tahoe Tonight: Talk about how you’ve been able to build your fan base and secure major showcase and performance engagements at top venues like House of Blues and Hotel Cafe?

Whitton: Consistency. It takes a long time to develop a strong buzz. Networking is very important. Sharing the stage with fellow musicians and building relationships with them, fans and industry. It’s extremely important to have the “right” team of people. Performing in Los Angeles regularly, I’ve gotten handfuls of deals/offers from industry professionals… but that doesn’t mean that any deal through the door is the right deal. You have to be selective and be aware. But don’t let fear take the wheel because you might end up in a dead end with no deal. Intuition and knowing what you want is key in finding the “right” team.

Reno Tahoe Tonight: Your upcoming CD release at Cantina Los Tres Hombres is something of a homecoming for you. Who’s on the show bill and what do you have in store for your Reno fans?

Whitton: Yeah, I guess it is like a homecoming for me. I’m excited to see old faces and new faces! I’m jazzed to perform at my brother’s childhood friend, Shawn Plunket’s restaurant. Shawn’s been like a big brother to me, so it’s like I’m hangin’ with my family as well. I’ve heard fabulous things about local songwriter, Tyler Stafford, who’s opening for me at the Cantina. Also, one of my favorite funky bands, Jelly Bread will perform later in the evening. I’m excited to reconnect with Dave Berry (singer/guitarist), whom I toured with for a while years back. It should be a wonderful night of just plain ‘ole good music.

Find Whitton on Facebook, Twitter and Pandora.

Photo by Jeff Fasano

Photo by Natalie Gamble

Review by Tracy Heck for Detroit Live Music Examiner!

2011-10-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

Review by Tracy Heck for Examiner.com!

Whitton releases Rare Bird

Tracy Heck

, Detroit Live Music Examiner - October 1, 2011

Singer/songwriter Jaime Whitton is bringing the big band era back with the release of her latest album Rare Bird, which came out on Tuesday.

Whitton’s voice is a throwback to the days of Billie Holiday but with a modern twist that harkens more towards Norah Jones and the contrast between the vintage and current bluesy pop is a delight to listen to.

Whitton herself cites Nick Drake and Jeff Buckley as two of her biggest influences and certainly many of her songs also have a folksy feel to them, “I love the music of the forties and the big band era and I always wanted to bring that into my own music. With this album I also brought in a flare of Americana.”

Whitton’s love of music began at a early age after being born into a musical family as the youngest of six children.

Whitton says her parents chose to have that many kids because of their love for the movie the Sound of Music, “I was raised in a house of musicians so it was always there. I began performing at the age of 6.”

However, after her family moved to the L.A. area Whitton’s musical career really took off and is most responsible for the artist she is today.

When asked about being from Reno, Nevada and that besides the Killers it does not seem that much music comes out of the area Whitton laughed and explained that yes it is true that the area does not feature a big musical background and that you really had to search for it.

Although she is a naturally a observer and loves to play guitar she found herself in the singer role as the result of some personal tragedy but feels at home there now.

She is involved in the writing and creation of all of her music and with the self-released Rare Bird she worked with Peter Fox (Rachel Yamgata) and Joe Solo (Macy Grey) as well as engineer Michael James (Hole).

Rare Bird is one of those albums that you can sit down and be involved in all the way through; there are no filler tracks.

The album opens with the fun, spirited “Turn Off the Light” and continues on with tracks like the powerful “Monster” and the energetic “B Sting”, which Whitton says is her favorite track off of the album and her favorite to play live.

“Turn Off the Light” is the first single off of the album and features Whitton as the bored housewife searching for the light in her own life.

As long as the funds are there Whitton does plan to release more videos with “B Sting” being tops on her list, “It’s such a great track to perform live and I would love to do a video for it as well.”

Whitton says that performing live is her favorite thing to do and that people should come out to her shows because, “It is all about the connection between myself and the audience. Seeing the fans singing my lyrics and feeling the songs is what it is about and I think that connection is what people look for.”

Depending on the situation Whitton sometimes is backed up by a 7-10 piece band but at times goes out with a trio or quartet behind her creating a more stripped down version of the songs and making it a unique experience for the audience.

Whitton is currently just scheduled for a few shows in Nevada and Los Angeles but is planning a longer tour in the Spring towards the end of February and beginning of March.

There are many areas she has not been to yet including the Detroit area and she hopes to hit all of them and eventually move out of the country as well.

She says that the Seattle area is one of her favorite places to play after falling in love with the city while out exploring.

She says she enjoys wandering off while out on tour and exploring especially since, “People watching is my favorite thing to do. It’s a great way to get lyrical inspiration.”

Whitton’s music has been finding a home in the entertainment world being featured on shows like Dexter and in movies like the upcoming Charlie Sheen film All I Want To Do.

Continue reading on Examiner.com Whitton releases Rare Bird - Detroit Live Music | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/live-music-in-detroit/whitton-releases-rare-bird-1#ixzz1ZfRUWR00

http://www.examiner.com/live-music-in-detroit/whitton-releases-rare-bird-1

Deli Magazine & Me

2011-10-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

Deli Magazine wrote a blog on me. Check it out!! There’s 3 days left to vote!!! Coming in 2nd, so close to 1st place for The Deli Magazine LA’s artist of the month where they will feature me on the front! It’s one click! http://la.thedelimagazine.com/. The poll is on the top right, in the red box. Polls will be open until OCTOBER 18th at 9pm!! Help spread the words. Thanks guys!

Whitton Wants You to “Turn Off The Light”

Whitton’s sweet-sassy single, “Turn Off The Light”, showcases the doe-eyed songstress as a 1940s housewife begging her aloof, lazy husband for some sexy time. The single is from her new album, “Rare Bird”, which honors the mid-20^th century Americana sound. Whitton is currently touring about the Westcoast to promote the release. See her live at Villain’s Tavern, every Tuesday beginning November 1^st. - Nicole Dawley

http://la.thedelimagazine.com/

Featured on the Front Page Sonicbids!!

2011-10-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Yay! So cool being featured on the front page of Sonicbids!!

Review by Mickies Zoo Blogspot!

2011-10-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

Whitton at Hotel Cafe Oct. 12

Whitton brings a flare of the 1940s to her wishful, singer-songwriter sound. Take the sounds of an alluring Billie Holiday, mixed with the curious intensity of Norah Jones, and eclectic complexity of Regina Spektor, and you’ll get the best kept secret in Los Angeles - WHITTON.

Whitton will be performing at Hotel Café, on October 12th, at 9PM. For tickets and more information please visit
https://www.hotelcafe.com/tickets/?s=events_view&id=1216

Her new LP, “Rare Bird” is available now with 10 new tracks produced and co-written by Ian Coyne . There’s also several other co-writers including Peter Fox (Rachel Yamagata) and Joe Solo (Macy Grey) and mixed by engineer Michael James (New Radicals, Hole). Several tracks have already received feature film placements in: SHE WANTS ME (starring Charlie Sheen, Hilary Duff and Josh Gad) and METH HEAD (starring Lukas Haas, Wilson Cruz and Necar Zadegan).

The “Turn Off The Light” music video is also available at:
www.youtube.com/whittonmusic

For a sneak-peek of Whitton’s LP “Rare Bird”, please go to:
www.whittonmusic.com

Tracks from Whitton’s previous, self-titled EP also received placement in the 2011 films: THE 5TH QUARTER (starring Aidan Quinn, Andie MacDowell, and Ryan Merriman), EXIT STRATEGY (starring radio host Big Boy from Power 106, Jameel Saleem and Kevin Hart), and was featured on Delta Air Lines Sonicbids Radio Channel and in Delta’s “Sky Magazine”. WHITTON has recorded three full-length albums with acclaimed producers David Hauser (Redbone, Supreme Beings of Leisure, Iron Butterfly), Kevin White (writer for Billy Ray Cyrus) and Ronan Chris Murphy (King Crimson, Dishwalla). She also has won numerous awards including “Best Female Acoustic Rock Artist” by the New York Music Festival and been featured as a guest vocalist on Showtime’s Emmy-Nominated hit series “Dexter”.

Performance schedule:

10/12 Los Angeles, CA Hotel Café – CD Release Show

10/13 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues – Acoustic Strip

10/22 Reno, NV Cantina Las Tres Hombres

11/1 Los Angeles, CA Villain’s Tavern- Every Tuesday Residency

www.whittonmusic.com

http://mickieszoo.blogspot.com/2011/10/whitton-at-hotel-cafe-oct-12.html

2011-10-10T15:52:00.001-07:00

Whitton has been nominated for The Deli Magazine LA's artist of the month. Friends and fans please VOTE by ONE click of a button at:http://la.thedelimagazine.com/. The poll is on the top right, in the red box. Polls will be open until OCTOBER 18th at 9pm!!

The winner of the poll will be rewarded with: - photo+link on top of our LA website (next to the Deli's logo) and also on the homepage with the other scene's winners (www.thedelimagazine.com) for the 2 weeks after the poll. - Two free mastered songs at Peerless Mastering, with one of the engineers in the US, Jeff Lipton. How wonderful would that be!??? Thanks for the support everyone!!

FRONT PAGE of Broadwayworld - Concert Listing Post

2011-10-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

Whitton Performs Record Release Show at Hotel Café 10/12

Back to the Article by BWW News Desk

http://concerts.broadwayworld.com/article/Whitton-Performs-Record-Release-Show-at-Hotel-Caf-1012-20111004

New CD Release Show At Hotel Cafe Announced in LA!

2011-10-04T12:21:00.000-07:00

Oct. 12th - CD Release - Hotel Cafe @ 8:45pm

1623 1/2 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles. $10 cover, 21+ & sharing the stage with friends, Amber Rubarth, Leftover Cuties and Coby Brown!

TICKETS AVAILABLE

Interview with LA-based Musician Whitton by GIRLGEMRADIO

2011-10-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

Interview with LA-based Musician WhittonOCTOBER 3, 2011

by girlgermsradio

Photo by Natalie Gamble

Jaime Whitton (known musically as simplyWhitton) just released her album Rare BirdSept. 24. Her music has been featured in feature films Meth Headand She Wants Me(her vocals have even appeared on Dexter!), and she won Best Female Acoustic Artist at the New York Music Festival. Girl Germs intern Emma had a chance to chat with the Reno, Nevada-born, LA-based singer-songwriter about the new record and her unique, vintage-inspired sound.Girl Germs: Tell me about your sound — it seems almost like a cross between Joanna Newsom and Billie Holiday, especially on Rare Bird. How did you arrive at this mix between folk and '40s?Whitton: I admire both of these inspiring women very much. Stemming from the same tree, they both have something in common and that's truth… in their lyrics and vulnerable voice… Yet they're completely different styles of music. I'm honored to remind you of such greatness. How did I come upon this mix? Well, it's kinda what has poured of me, naturally. When I met my producer Ian Coyne, I was singing while playing acoustic guitar to a crowd of four people. Just by myself with my guitar, I lean more in the simplistic folk genre like Joanna Newsom. We decided to get together and talk about future recording possibilities. Being brilliant in his craft, I think Ian dissected the characteristics of my singing voice and we built around it. I've always had a love for '30s/'40s classic music: Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, etc. It was fantastic mixing the two styles in this album.I'm also really interested in your guest vocalist stint onDexter. How did the opportunity arise? What was it like? Would you do TV again in the future?I had a great time singing as a guest vocalist on one of Dexter's songs. I met the composer, Dan Licht, and spent an evening at his recording studio experimenting with ghostly vocal sounds that added an eerie atmosphere to the song. I never appeared on TV physically, but my voice did!On your MySpace page, you talk a little about what tough times these are for musicians. How are you navigating the changing industry? What is it like for someone whose sound is more of a nod to the classics, rather than pop? What advice would you give to those just entering it?Well, I can't give too much advice on this because I'm still entering! I just try to keep trucking along with the gifts I possess and try to share it with the world. To me, the only real way of getting a strong foot in the door is creating buzz—a fan base. And how to do that is touring and TV/film placement. If you're lucky to get a great publicist, that's like having a cherry on top. They get you interviews and reviews online and press in the cities you tour through. It's an arduous battle representing yourself. You can do it…but most people don't like to deal with the artist. Besides, being a salesperson isn't one of my best qualities, I must say. Trying to pitch yourself wears you out—or at least me. I think I'm lucky to have a classic pop/singer-songwriter appeal because my music seems to be pretty universal. Who don't love classic music? Who doesn't love singer-songwriter music? And who doesn't love popular music?Ten-song albums always seemed a bit on the short side to me, but this year's releases have really changed my mind: The Decemberists, Bon Iver and most recently one of Minnesota's own, Caroline Smith. How did you decide on this length yourself? Was it difficult to limit the number of songs?Of course it's difficult to limit the number of songs! I had a handful of tunes that I wanted to put on my new album, but I try to put songs together that make a nice thread of emotion, color and sound. And it also came down to budget as well! Ha ha ha! Which was probably a blessing in disguise, because I'd still be working on it and wouldn't have released it yet!What are your plans for 2012? Will you mostly be promoting your new album? Are there any other projects on the horizon? Uh, 2012 is going to be very interesting on so many levels. I'm anxious to see how it all unfolds. My plan is to promote Rare Bird while touring the majority of the year. And in the early spring, I'll begin to record my next album with the ever so talented producer/musician, Jon Avila (Oingo Boingo) and the extremely gifted musician, Ben Burget (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy/Erykah Badu).Just for fun—if you could play a concert anytime, anywhere, and with anyone, what would it be? Venue? Time period? Fellow musicians?Well, in the future my ultimate venue would be the Hollywood Bowl and I would have a stunning visual performance on screen behind me throughout my show. But right now at my current status, I'd LOVE to perform at the Largo in Los Angeles with any of these marvelous acts: Rufus Wainwright, Andrew Bird, Colin Hay, Ray LaMontagne, Jesca Hoop, Damien Rice and/or Amos Lee.–Emma Nelson
..

http://girlgermsradio.wordpres..s.com/2011/10/03/interview-wit..h-la-based-musician-whitton/

2011-10-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

Recent Touring Photos. Check ‘em out on my Facebook!

www.Facebook.com/Whittonmusic

Meeee Band

2011-09-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

What a fine bunch, I do say! Pizza and beer at 1pm after my performance with my sexy band for the Filter Magazine & Newcastle event.

Ben Burget : trumpet & clarinet

Adam Alesi : drums

Stephen Hughes : trombone & tuba

Jon LaTona : upright bass

Todd McCool : acoustic guitar

Whitton in Seattle, Washington !!

2011-09-14T23:54:00.000-07:00

Whitton performing live in Seattle, Washington !!

Sept. 19th - Sonyas Bar and Grill @ 8pm - 1919 1st Ave., Seattle, WA

Acoustic appearance, supporting new album release, “Rare Bird”. (The night is called Palabra.) Ben Burget will be accompanying me on piano and trumpet! Sharing the stage with the amazing classical & flamenco guitarist, Andre Feriante!

WHITTON TOUR SCHEDULE

Indie Band House Review on "Rare Bird"

2011-09-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

Whitton – Rare Bird (unreleased!)

Whitton’s 10-track LP has been announced to be released on September 24th (this month, people!). If you have ever heard Whitton, you know that you almost feel as if you have gone back in time a couple decades. This is something rarely seen in the music industry these days; tell me when the last “speakeasy” song was produced!

Whitton is self-releasing her upcoming album release, Rare Bird. Lucky for us, we got the chance to speak with Whitton, and even got a couple of autographed albums from her! Quite the nice person to speak to. The even better news is that since we got our hands on her unreleased album, that means you guys get a sneak peak of her album that has never been heard before.

Whitton has a single released on YouTube, “Turn Off the Light”- the setting of the video is just as it sounds, pretty cool! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efa2Vtox40M a link to her single that has been released. Talent, charm and good looks- Whitton most definitely has all three of these covered without-a-doubt. So here it is- Whitton’s unreleased Rare Bird here on indiebandhouse.com. It’s quite difficult to self-release an album so make sure to purchase the album if you like it on the 24th!

http://www.indiebandhouse.com

2011-09-05T22:39:00.000-07:00

Joanna Newsom is definitely an acquired taste... you either are annoyed/terrified by her screechy horror film voice or enamored by her poetry, musical harp and pure presence on stage. I adore her.

"Apple Tree" featured in true story, "The 5th Quarter"!

2011-08-24T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!
My producer Ian Coyne and I wrote a tune called "Apple Tree" and it's featured in this incredibly moving true story, "The 5th Quarter". I cried like 5 time through... very touching film. Honored to have my song in it! Check out the story... http://the5thquartermovie.com

"Rare Bird" New Release - SNEAK PEEK!

2011-08-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, I'm so excited to announce the release of my new 10 song CD release, "Rare Bird"! Have a SNEAK PEEK at: www.Whittonmusic.com. "Rare Bird" will be available for purchase SEPTEMBER 24th worldwide on iTunes, Amazon and CDBaby! And stay tuned for my live performances soon after. Dates TBA.

In this day and age, times are tough. Music is struggling to survive... If you like to help spread the word about my music, you can help by:

~ FACEBOOK ~

Invite/share my music with your friends:
1. Go to: "RARE BIRD" SNEAK PEEK INVITE"
2. On the left hand side of the invite it says, "Select Guests to Invite". Click on it.
3. All your friends come up and you can check anyone's box you'd like to invite
4. You're welcome to add a personal message to them at the bottom.

~ YouTube ~

Share/email my music video, "Turn Off The Light" with your friends. This song is first on "Rare Bird"!

~ Write-ups/reviews from Bloggers/Magazines ~
ONLINE or PAPER reviews, know anyone in this position,
send them to: www.Whittonmusic.com and/or Whittonmusic@gmail.com

You guys are AMAZING! Thank you for all the love and support!! See you from the stage sometime soon!

~ Whitton

"All I Want To Do" placed in new Charlie Sheen film!

2011-08-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

Yay! My song, "All I Want to Do" has been placed in the upcoming film, "She Wants Me" (starring Hilary Duff and Charlie Sheen)! Keep your eyes peeled!

"Nothin' At All" placed in movie, "Meth Head"

2011-08-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

My song, "Nothin' At All" got placed in the movie, "Meth Head" (starring Lukas Haas, Blake Berris, Necar Zadegan and Wilson Cruz)!! Yay! Keep your eyes out!

METH HEAD

Need help finding a title for my NEW tune...

2011-07-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

If you had five titles for one tune to choose from, which title would you want to listen to first???

Help My Musician Friend, Kelli Rudick!

2011-07-29T23:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I want to turn you on to a friend of mine, Kelli Rudick (whom I previously toured with) is trying to finish her album, but needs your help. Support amazing music! She's worth it!

living walls ALBANY

2011-07-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

Albany, NY Peeps and/or Visitors, seeking inspiration and purpose?! LIVING WALLS bring community art and performances to you! Please support these artists. They're amazingly gifted and have so much to say, but can't continue without your support. Many thanks to artist, Samson Contompasis for being such a true ringleader! Check 'em out!

living walls ALBANY

"From This Angle" Volume 1, 2, 3.

2011-07-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

If you want a glimpse into the overlooked and often unwonted charm and evocative natural beauty of both the Ancient and Modern World, please check out my brother Michael's photography books, "From This Angle" Volume 1, 2, 3. Amazing!

"From This Angle" - Volume 1, 2, 3

What's Been Going On????

2011-07-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Ya'll!!
Been busy wrapping up the design work with Claire Flint for my new album, "Rare Bird"! Congratulating her on recently winning "Best Visual Artist" in Eugene, OR. She's amazing. Check her out. Meanwhile, I've been writing like a mad man and found myself back in the studio with producer/engineer, Ronan Chris Murphy and multi-talented arranger/musician, Ben Burget. I'm super inspired and have so much to say, it feels. I'm on a roll! Feeling my best is yet to come! Here are some fun pictures of my latest recording adventure... Stay tuned for the new tune, "Cars & Mars" written by Mr. Burget and I! I had a live string section, drums, piano, guitar and of course, me on vocals!

Mary Keating (violin), Jon LaTona (upright bass), Max Mueller (cello), Vicki Scotto (viola)

Ben Burget (pianist), ME and David Raven (drummer)

Ronan Chris Murphy (engineer/producer), Ben Burget (pianist) and Jon LaTona (upright bassist)

Ben Burget

Ben Burget (pianist), Ronan Chris Murphy (engineer/producer) and David Raven (drummer)

The NeoConArtist: Interview with Whitton

2011-02-14T22:16:00.000-08:00

The NeoConArtist: Interview with Whitton: "Whitton, the youngest of six siblings, began singing and performing at the age of six. She's recorded four full-length albums with acclai..."

While in the Studio Clouds... =)

2011-01-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

Hey guys!

Just a few fun moments while in Ben Burget's studio. Producer, Ian Coyne, Mr. Burget and I spent an evening recording lushes orchestral strings on my tune, "Better Days" with the ever so talented violinist, Emily Moore. Also, Mr. Burget on soprano saxophone!

Check out a clip of her layering parts...

Can't wait to share my album with you all!!! Ian and I have worked soooooo hard on writing and producing great tunes for your ears! Stay tuned!

~ W

Interview w/ John Carrillo for the "OC Music Scene"

2011-01-17T12:52:00.000-08:00

17JAN/110

A FEW WORDS WITH WHITTON

photo by Natalie Gamble

OCMS: Your new album is scheduled to be released in the spring. What's the status?

W: Early spring, still working on production, then mixing.

OCMS: Are you happy with how the arrangements are working out?

W: Absolutely...so excited! I've been working on this album for one year and half.

OCMS: I heard you spent some time doing shows on a cruise ship. How was that experience?

W: I didn't end up going...I wrote a song for a feature film so I decided to stay. I couldn't leave when things are hoppin'.

OCMS: Yes, the Aidan Quinn movie, "The 5th Quarter". How did you get involved with that?

W: I was working with this manager Danny Sembello at the time and the director asked for a song...So... my producer Ian Coyne and I wrote "Apple Tree" for a certain part in the movie.

OCMS: If you had only five albums to listed to on a desert island, what would they be?

W: Hmmm... depends.. would I have a guitar with me? if so... I'd like to play to myself mostly. The waves and the clouds could be my band. Hmmm... second...I'd love to remember the sweet words and voice of Shane Gooding...third would be my touring buddy Izzy Cox...fourth- Elizabeth Fraser and Jeff Buckley...fifth- The Fence Jumpin' Leaf Kickers.

OCMS: How did you like acting in the video for your song, "Turn Off the Light"? It has a very distinct 1940's visual style. Were you inspired by any particular actress of that era?

W: Nope... although after the fact I've been compared to a few... like Betty Davis, Marlene Dietrich. My music has a flair of 40's... the song is about a couple being together, married for some time...this couple's love has lost it's spice, so she imagine's the beginning... when things were new...back in the 30's that's when the depression hit...a lot of women felt like that.

OCMS: Some of them probably feel that way now.

W: Suppressed. Absolutely. Some things are better in the dark...time speeds by that way...

Whitton's new song, "Apple Tree" will be featured in the new film, "The Fifth Quarter" starring Aidan Quinn and Annie McDowell. The film will be released in the spring of 2011.

OC Music Scene

Checkin' in... Happy New Year!

2011-01-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. The holidays have come and gone, so I'm consumed in the studio until my album is finished. I'm shooting for a early March release! Let's cross our fingers. I'm so excited!! Below are a couple pictures of my studio life, fun with friends and networking outings. Happy New Year!

A night at the "Echo" in Silverlake while watching my bass player's other band, Marcus Very Ordinary! My bassist, Jon LaTona, my horn player, Ben Burget, my producer Ian Coyne and his lovely lady friend, Luz Abril! Good times!

HunnyPot with writers Peter Fox (Rachael Yamagata) and Joe Solo (Macy Gray).

In Peter Malick's studio writin' my next tune, "Nothin' Left to Lose" with Peter Malick (Norah Jones), Ian Coyne and I.

BBQing with members of my band, Angela Michael and Jon LaTona.

Singin' by the piano for the holidays with my sweet sister, Stacey!

In Ian Coyne's studio recording Ben Burget on trumpet on my song, "B Sting". Wait 'til you hear it!!

"Cirque Berzerk" outing with good friends, Catrina Carson and Chris Hall (owners of Black Heart Graphics)

BRADY SPINDAL!! One of LA's Cirque Berzerk's finest characters! If you haven't seen their show, I highly recommend it! Check it out, they're only at the Nokia for the month of January!

I'll letcha know when my next show is. Can't wait to see you all again!

PANDORA!!!

2010-11-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

Whitton is now on PANDORA!!!

WHITTON on PANDORA!!!

http://www.pandora.com/music/album/whitton/whitton

2010-10-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

"Turn Off the Light" has been chosen to be featured as the Songwriter Spotlight this week on Songwriters Vantage! Check it out!

"Turn Off the Light" Video & New Web Site!

2010-10-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! My new web site is up and running with my new music video, "Turn Off the Light"! Check it out!

www.WhittonMusic.com

“Turn Off The Light” is on “Rocketfuel” playlist!

2010-10-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

‎My song, “Turn Off The Light” is currently on the “Rocketfuel” playlist, which will air approx. once per day between 4AM – 8AM PST (7AM –11AM EST) until November 1st! YAY!

Turn Off the Light

LA Peeps ~ Hotel Cafe ~ October 13th @ 9:45pm

2010-09-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

Bordello Show in LA - August 31st!

2010-08-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! Gettin' my singin' boots on this month! Come on down to "Bordello" in downtown LA on Tuesday, August 31st at 8:30pm for my live show with my 10 piece band. 21+ and $10 cover. You don't want to miss this night!! Sharing the stage with "Leftover Cuties" and "R. Scott"

Bordello - 901 E. 1st, Los Angeles, CA - @ 8:30pm

New Pics Launched! New Website TBA

2010-08-15T22:59:00.000-07:00

To view more new photos, please go to: Whitton Pics

Photos taken by Natalie Gamble

New Website TBA

Whitton featured on "The Highway Girl"

2010-07-14T22:53:00.000-07:00

Hey! I'll be featured on "The Highway Girl" this weekend starting on Thursday, July 15, 2010 and will run through Sunday, July 18, 2010. Check it out!

The Highway Girl

MusicMonday 2010 [Week 29]

2010-07-12T17:54:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! I wanted to let you know that I'm featured on “Music Monday” with WomensRadio Music Review! Check it!

MusicMonday 2010 [Week 29]

“Dirty Up" on WomensRadio Music Review Podcast

2010-07-06T14:48:00.000-07:00

My tune, “Dirty Up" is featured on the 24th Episode of WomensRadio Music Review Podcast. Check it out!

NEED YOUR VOTE! "Midas Rock Highway" Contest!

2010-07-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! So... I entered this contest called "Midas Rock Highway", whom have teamed up with Sonicbids. I'm trying to reach the top 10 qualifying artists in the "Totally Amped Up" category. And if I do, I'll move one step closer to Road Song royalty. In addition, I'll have the chance to win up to $5,000 in cash and be included in an upcoming ad in SPIN Magazine! That cash could help finish my upcoming record!! PLEASE VOTE for my song "TURN OFF THE LIGHT". Now, I know everyone is super busy with life, but if you remember lil 'ole me, please VOTE for me EVERYDAY thru the month of July! The more votes, the closer I get. Love you guys, thanks soooooo much for the support!

~ W

PS... Vote here: VOTE

July News... So far!

2010-06-30T22:32:00.000-07:00

Yell..O! Hope everyone is gearin' up for a fabulous 4th of July! I voted to play Monopoly... alas, I find myself at a table with empty chairs. I guess this means get a life, join the party or be alone, eating dried mangos and daydreaming about how nice it'd be to own Boardwalk and Park Place in real life. Well... whatever you guys decide to do this red, white and blue holiday, be safe and smart. Drinking and driving are for lameos, losers and boozers.

So... July news... hmmm. Nothing too too exciting as of this second, but in a few weeks you're gonna witness something pretty freakin' awesome that's stashed away in my back pocket. No way can I spill all the beans just yet, but I'll give you a few tasters... My NEW live performances and music video,"Turn Off the Light" will be released. I'm relaunching my entire web site with new photos and upcoming show dates. I'm cookin' up some fun merchandise ideas, watch out! Will be available at my live concerts. Oh, and I've been finger pickin' away on my new Martin! Soundin' real fine ladies and gentlemen. That's all I can reveal from the Whitton curtain for the time being... I know, I know... Got you all riled up. You're just gonna have to wait.

Here's a snap shot of a couple of talented folks while jamming in the studio: Peter Fox, Jon LaTona, Darius Minaee and singer, Emily Jane. Photo taken by Ian Coyne.

More to come. Have a blast this weekend ya'll!

~ Whitton

"Turn Off the Light" - Photos!

2010-06-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek of the stills from my new music video "Turn Off The Light".

Actor Evan Dumouchel played my drunk, low beat husband whom turned into a suave, charming catch by the end of the night. Photography by my director, Michael Whitton.

The OneString King, a good friend of mine, let us shoot at his house in Long Beach, CA. One of the best experiences I've ever had.

I wouldn't have gotten to do this without my fantastic Producer - Kellie Maltagliati! Endless hugs and thanks Kellie!

I want to do it all over again!

Myra Penate (amazing makeup artist) and Natalie Gamble (exceptional photographer) are watching quietly during each take. Photo right is Julie Hinton (beautiful singer & pianist) who performed on the whirly during outside porch takes.

Todd McCool on the guitar!

Director of Photography - Robert Baliszewski and lighting assistant - Pat O'Malley. Also, to the right are my band mates: Jon Latona (bass) and Shaunte Palmer (trombone), but this night I had him play drums. =) Nice one Shaunte!

It was indeed a fabulous night! Except... the only thing I'd do different is make sure my hair doesn't go flat by 4am. I needed the extra extra extra hold! Damn ocean air. Stay tuned!

~ Whitton

Ps... Don't want to forget one of the most important talents in this process, my production designer, Shalome Pilon! She rocked it out like no one's business! And a special thanks to everyone who contributed costumes, props and time! You're the best! Amazing crew all in all. Thank you everyone... I really look forward to working together again!

Video/Photo Process

2010-06-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! I'm now recovering from major sleep deficiency this past weekend. But all worth it because of such an AMAZING video/photo shoot and an incredible crew involved! We filmed a music video of my song, "Turn Off the Light". Truly, just a pleasure and privilege! I'm soooooo blessed and thrilled with the results. Thank you to everyone involved! Especially the OneString King, my band, video crew, photo crew, Michael Whitton, Robert Baliszewski and producer - Kellie Maltagliati! Without you, this couldn't have happened. Stay tuned, more to come...

Wait until you all see the magic!!

~ W

Fun News in June

2010-06-01T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Hope ya'll enjoyed your Memorial Weekend. I sure did! Just getting back from the "Lightning in A Bottle" Festival in Oak Canyon! Lots of funky fashion, stunning beauty and lovely company. =) I'm definitely submitting to perform next year.

Now for little bit of news...

My song, "I Fell In Love" is featured on Sonic Eclectic Radio!

Also, my new EP release is featured on Radio Crystal Blue Novus Ordo's podcast on 5/30 and will be distributed the day after. This edition will be rebroadcast once on this Live365 station on Saturday 6/5 10pm ET

Last but not least, I recently got my finished mix of "Turn Off the Light" by Michael James from IndieProMix! So impressed and extremely fortunate! If you're a musician and need a perfect mix, I HIGHLY recommend.

More to come! ~ W

Whitton De Fleur

2010-05-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I hope this message finds you smiling today. I wanted to share with you my sister's handmade "Whitton De Fleur" designs. I'm so very lucky to have such a talented sister! Cool thing is is when you attend my live concerts, you'll be able to purchase them.

Ok, ok now... don't get your feathers all ruffled out of towners... these beautiful vintage flowers will be ready to order online soon. Let's give a hand to these fabulous models: My sister - Stacey, my Mom - Linda, our friend - Lana Zeligman, and I forget the blond girl's name... oh, Me. Special thanks to Dean Z (photographer)!

Ciao Bellas and Guidos!

~ Whitton

"New York" LIVE Footage

2010-05-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

Seek a peek at my tune "New York" LIVE. Taken by a fan at Stronghold in Venice, CA. Check it. =)

Flat Tire

2010-05-09T13:57:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! I have a new/old revamped acousticly naked tune I wanted to share with you. I'm good at revamping and revising, as you can see I'm constantly doing so. I see it like this, even though you physically can't see music like a breathing person standing before you, songs are indeed living creatures. You have to nurture them for they are constantly changing. Some stay by your side forever. You witness them in different lights as time ticks away...

As far as this sliver of my life goes, just be thankful this tune isn't about you... ha ha.

2010-05-09T13:49:00.001-07:00

"I Fell in Love" with...

I wanted to remind Delta Airline passengers to take a gander thru their Sky Magazine and tune into my song " I Fell in Love" while flying during May and June. =) Also, Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful Mommies in the world!

Spring blooms of desert plumes,

~ W

Black Heart Graphics

2010-04-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

Good evening all...
As a very, very thoughtful gift, my two spunky lady friends
from BLACK HEART GRAPHICS added some WHITTON
decals to my merch selection! YAY! So, next time ya'll come
out to my shows, you can pick one up. Is it lame to have my
own decal on my car? Hahaha! Maybe... so. Ahhh hell, at least
I can see them on your cars or where ever you want to stick
them! Anyways, if anyone needs vinyl decals, check these fine
ladies out!

Cheers to you, Cat and Chris Pee!

~ Whitton

"HOT HOT" EP Party!

2010-04-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

Ook... I've been totally sucking at blogging lately... I thought I should share some photos taken by photographer, Natalie Gamble, of my EP release party at a quaint little hip "speakeasy" called Stronghold in Venice, CA. I performed with a full 13 piece band! It was wild! And it went perfectly... except for my hair! Ha ha! I also videotaped that evening... so... those of you that couldn't attend, you'll have a second chance to witness the magic of March 21st! It was fun to have my sweet brother, David sing back up vocals and have my Papa sell my CDs, which he had a kick doing...

Before the show, as I was powdering up for the cameras, I had the pleasure of one of the club owners helping me pick out just the right pair of heels to perform in. Then, I was interviewed with honest questions about my musical direction for the future.

Look at how cute my band is!

I serenaded 2-3 songs from my new Ep, plus a few new beees that I'm sooo in LOVE with.. In the moment with closed eyes while wholeheartedly engaged, I made myself so at home, I kept hitting the microphone with my teeth and forehead. Ha ha! It was a special show for me... It just reassured me this is what I'm born to do...

To view more photos from this performance please go to: www.Facebook.com/Whitton

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Kellie Maltagliati, Michael Whitton (video crew), my BIG beautiful band, all my fans that gave donations, Ian Coyne, Natalie Gamble and last, but not least, Stronghold.

iTunes ~ CDBaby ~ FREE MP3 ~ WATCH OUT!

2010-04-09T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! The time is finally here... My new EP release is now available for purchase on CDBaby and iTunes! Just click on the link! If you're feeling brave and inspired, I highly encourage you to review my tunes and leave any comments on CDBaby and iTunes. It'd be much appreciated.

If your keeping up with my sporadic blogging, I'd like to offer you a gift! If you sign up by clicking on the box marked FOLLOW, I'll personally email you an exclusively, unreleased FREE MP3! You may then email me at: WHITTONFANS@GMAIL.COM and write "FREE MP3" in the subject box. Thanks for the wonderful support. I'm sooooo looking forward to sharing my music with you! Stay tuned, my producer, Ian Coyne and I have been working nonstop on the full album that will be released sometime this fall.

Swirls and twirls,

~ W

This Saturday's SD IndieFest Show

2010-03-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

I've literally been trying to play this festival for quite sometime now! And I finally got booked! If you can't afford to go to the SD IndieFest for the whole day, just got wind that my show on Saturday the 27th is FREE! I'm performing on the Women's History Stage at 5pm - inside Claire de Lune Coffee House! Just know you'll be missing a handful of amazing indie artists, so I highly recommand trying to go the whole ...day. =) Hope to see your sweet eyes!

"Is Good Radio" Interview

2010-03-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

If you missed my "Is Good Radio" appearance on 3/11/10, I was lucky enough to be interviewed, videotaped and recorded by Jon Hershfield. To listen to the podcast click: TUNE IN . To watch my solo acoustic performance, please click on: WATCH .

I truly had a wonderful time chattin' it up with Jon. I highly recommend continuing to tune in to "Is Good Radio". Knowing Jon over the years, I can see how much passion and love he has for all types of music. He chooses the bands he interviews and really takes to heart quality music.

I thank you for reading my blogs. =) I hope you all are enjoying the sun today.

~ W

A Bag Full of Goodies

2010-03-10T12:52:00.000-08:00

Wow, I've got a lot of fun things happening, but I can't tell you everything just yet!! But what I can tell you is...

"Dirty Up" is currently ranking in the top 100 of the Female Singer-Songwriter Onstage channel! There's still plenty of time for "Dirty Up" to move around the charts, so to my lovely army of loyal fans, please help judge and vote for my music to rise to the top. Onstage's Female Singer-Songwriter competition isn't even half way through the month so a lot can change.... Thanks everyone, you rock my world.

It seems "Dirty Up" is getting a lot of attention lately! “Dirty Up” is also currently on rotation until May 1st on WomensRadio Independent Channel on Live365 . Tune in anytime and you'll also get a chance to discover a bunch of new female artists as well!

Also, tomorrow (March 11th) at 2pm, I have a LIVE online radio appearance with Is Good Radio. There, Jon Hershfield will interview me on my new EP release and I'll perform 3 acoustic songs. Everyone can tune in online at: Is Good Radio

To be a part of these events, please click on the links above. Lots more to come!! I'm getting excited about my show on the 23rd in Venice. Hope to see you all! Cheers!

~ W

"I Fell in Love" with Delta Airlines!

2010-03-05T17:36:00.000-08:00

"I Fell in Love" with

Based on the time of year, the theme for Delta Air Lines' show is Spring/Summer Spirit. The "Sonicbids Indie Showcase” is featuring 6 Sonicbids artists on an audio channel on Delta Air Lines domestic and international flights. So... I decided to enter and kinda put it out of my head for a while.

Well, guess what???? They chose my song "I Fell in Love", which will air on this channel for 45 of every 90 minutes for two months (May/June 2010). It will be announced on air and listed in Delta’s online Sky magazine as well! This breaks down to my song being played approximately 20,000 times on 42,540 flights to over 5 million listeners. Over 61% of Delta’s passengers listen to the in-flight entertainment.

So, if by chance you're deciding to fly somewhere, and it happens to be during May and June, and by chance you choose Delta... Keep your eyes out for me!! I might just book a flight to celebrate. =)

Reconnecting for Haiti

2010-03-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday at the Haiti benefit festival, it was fantastic to see so many different types of people and local art come together to support such a tragic event. I enjoyed all the unique original talent from poetry readings, different styles of live music, little kiddies chasing each other with glittered flowers and butterflies painted on their cheeks and local artist's colorful art pieces hanging in the gallery. There was a canvas that took up an entire wall for anyone to freely paint their vision for the collage.

Outside, the bands played and the smell of yummy bbq lingered with a horrifying stench of burning sage, which I'm extremely allergic too. Unfortunately, I was also suffering from a tiny fever and the chilly night didn't help. As you can see, I was heavily bundled up in my performance. Ha ha. I looked like a version of a golden Rapunzel Phantom. I did revel in revisiting my acoustic songs that I hadn't played live for quite sometime. I love that feeling... that feeling of truth and nakedness. I'm so glad that I got to be part of something good, hopefully, we all made a dent in helping the people of Haiti.

A Day Away with Mickey

2010-02-27T14:29:00.000-08:00

Oh my gooooooodddness! Being as dedicated and focused on a music career as I am, I physically and mentally geared and prepared myself for the long day of a million foot steps around Mickey's home. It seems no matter where I am or what I'm doing, I'm constantly crafting and contemplating my next move with my music. It was my sister's, my nephew's and my niece's birthday bash, I had to let my daily thoughts fizzle out and join the fun for one day! I forgot what it was like to be a kid... A bliss of innocence. On a handful of different rides, I couldn't help but to laugh from the deepest part of my core and scream as LOUD as I could as my gut dropped to the floor. The speed of wind pulled my cheeks back to my ears permanently it felt like. Ha ha! It was so good... kinda therapeutic in a way. (Yes, that's me in the front row on the left with my nephew! I know it's not flattering, but hey, it's Disneyland man, Mickey doesn't care what you look like.)

Throughout the day, I observed all the amusingly funny children that run around with their cotton candied faces and their forgotten balloons trailing behind them, the unique couples holding hands, the fabulous parade of smiles and familiar cartoon celebrities. I found myself singing along in my head to the speakers that covered Disneyland. I have to say, by the end of the magically "It's a Small World" tour, there was a moment that I took a deep breath and realized, this is how it feels to take a REAL vacation. I let go of all my worries for 24 hours and just simply enjoyed the moment. And the most important joy of all was, how amazing my family is and how grateful I am.

"Carvinal Del Corazon" Benefit for Haiti*

2010-02-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

Hey Long Beach fans! I'll be performing 5-6 solo acoustic songs for the Haiti benefit "Carvinal Del Corazon", which will continue to support the people there. I've also donated one of my songs for the "Carvinal Del Corazon" compilation CD of all the Long Beach artists that they'll be selling throughout the day. 100% of the proceed will be given to Yele.org. ♥ .

I'll be serenading loud and proud by 6pm just me and myself and I. Silent Art Auction, Sirena Serpentina (tribal fire/belly-dancing), AXE L.A., ACRO YOGA LA & many others. All ages! On Sunday, February 28, 2010, 4-9pm at Hancock University and 8pm – 1am at

The Cellar - 21+.1638 Long Beach Blvd. LBC.

Together their creating an unforgettable day offering a silent art auction, five live music/performance stages, kids activity area, live painting, live screen printing, fashion show, culutral dance performances, haircuts for donations, food, fire dancing, CD Compilation, free bike valet and safety check. They're asking the community to donate a $5-20 entry fee (no one will be turned away).

Hope to see ya there!

	Show Me
	Have To
	Not Gonna Make It
	Can't Go
	Shore Me More