Singer/songwriter/guitarist James Willhite was born in Maryland in the spring of 1981. He took up piano at the age of 10 and later began to find his voice. Willhite spent time attending Florida State University on a swimming scholarship, but eventually realized he was destined to play the guitar. He picked up an acoustic in early 2002, then a Fender Stratocaster in 2006 and hasn't put it down since. Willhite often draws comparisons to artists such as John Mayer and Jack Johnson because of his smooth voice, heartfelt songwriting and mellow blue's-inspired guitar work. Although Willhite has discovered his own unique sound as of late, the presence of these contemporary greats is quite prevalent. One may also hear the subtle blues influence of the late guitar legend Stevie Ray Vaughan, who along with Mayer and Johnson is Willhite's biggest inspiration. In late 2007, Willhite met percussionist Ross Friend at a Starbucks in South Florida. Friend, who had been playing drums since around the age of 5, sat in with Willhite on a few acoustic songs out on the coffee shop patio. That night a musical bond was formed between the two and they have been working together ever since. The next logical step was to enter the studio. The Story Unfolds EP was recorded in June/July of 2008 with production & recording by Jamie and Ginny Wilson as well as Erin Ronsen lending his talents on bass guitar. James Willhite's sound is on the mellow side of indie rock or on the bluesy side of folk. James and Ross' live shows are a blend of acoustic guitar, percussion and mellow vocals. The duo often perform extended versions of James' most popular original songs as well as playing cover songs by such artists as Radiohead, Bob Marley, Maroon 5, Jimi Hendrix and many more. This eclectic combination provides a unique twist on the "traditional" acoustic sound.

Location: Southwest Florida Genre: Singer/Songwriter, Rock, Acoustic, Adult Alternative, Pop/Rock, Blues Rock Similar Artists: John Mayer, Jack Johnson, Josh Ritter, Jason Mraz Roots and Influences: Stevie Ray Vaughan, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Bob Marley, Kings of Leon Email: jameswillhitemusic@yahoo.com YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/JamesWillhiteMusic   James Willhite Vocals, Guitars, Piano Ross Friend Drums, Percussion

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