Jacob Whitesides Releases Debut Album 'Why?'

Why?, produced by Nashville-based David Spencer, showcases the soulful singing and songwriting of an 18-year old whose independent approach has captured the attention of critics and industry tastemakers as well as connecting with millions of fans around the world.

The album is a powerful thirteen-track collection of songs, brimming with standouts like the finger-clicked soul-pop of "Lovesick" ("A fun song about getting in trouble with your girl") and "Focus," which reflects on the stress of a love in our current culture of distraction. Whitesides' songs are, by and large, heartfelt and relatable. Sometimes they're lighthearted, but even when they're upbeat, there's often another level to the lyrics as the listener dives deeper into the music. "Love Slow" was inspired by the struggle of being 18 and in a relationship, and on "Bury Our Love" when he sings, "I was old before I was young" the line rings particularly true, echoing his musical talents and accomplishments.

Why? is the follow-up to Whitesides two chart-topping EPs A Piece of Me and Faces On Film (both which stood for days at #1 on iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart in 2015). A Piece of Me produced the unintentional hit "Not My Type At All." The track became the No. 1 most requested on Radio Disney and received heavy rotation on Sirius XM's "Coffee House" alongside such heavyweights as Coldplay, Paul Simon, and Ray LaMontagne. Additionally, Jacob enters his debut album campaign as the only artist to be chosen as MTV's "Artist to Watch," Radio Disney's "Next Big Thing," Pandora's "Artist to Watch," and Spotify's "Artist to Watch" for 2016, all concurrently.

Later this month, Jacob will embark on a fall tour supporting Ben Rector. A list of dates can be found below. Tickets and on-sale information can be found at www.jacobwhitesides.com.