NORWICH – She may be only 13 years old, but a quick look at vocalist and songwriter Kaitlyn Jackson’s musical resume reveals a talented young performer with an bright future ahead of her.
In May, the local country singer competed in – and won – the 3rd annual Central New York Radio Group Jr. Idol competition. Within the next two weeks, she’ll release her debut CD, “Crush,” recorded in and around Nashville with the help of some serious country music talent.
On her first visit to “Music City,” Jackson had an opportunity to record three of the album’s eight original songs with Dolly Parton producer and Reba McEntire guitarist Kent Wells at the famed Sound Kitchen Studio. In addition, the soon-to-be eighth grader had an chance to take some vocal lessons from one-time Carrie Underwood vocal coach Buzzy Orange, work with songwriters Sarah Majors and Marty Brown – who’s writing credits include stints with Trisha Yearwood, George Strait and Garth Brooks – and watch a group of professional musicians chart and record her first studio effort.
The journey, said Kaitlyn, has been an unforgettable one.
“Nashville was amazing. It was a great experience to meet new people and work with professional songwriters and musicians,” she added. “They’ve helped me to grow as a performer and vocalist, and helped me to make some amazing contacts.”
Jackson said she’s hoping the disc – an all original effort that features songs such as “Another Angel,” “You Had Everything,” “I Don’t Wanna Kiss You,” “Who I’m Gonna Be,” “Summertime,” and “With You,” as well as the title track – will help her to gain some exposure and lead to more opportunities to perform. In addition, the teenage crooner’s music industry agency, Nashville-based Artist Development Network, will be shopping the disc to a number of major record labels.
A singer, dancer, actress and all around performer for as long as she can remember, Jackson has shared the stage with some major musical talent over the years. In addition to a guest performance singing Christmas medleys with Kenny Rogers and Linda Davis, she’s opened shows for some of country music’s biggest names, including the Veronicas, Joe Nichols, Bryan White, Sarah Johns, Josh Gracin, Mark Wills, Jeff Bates and Trent Willmon.
In the future, Kaitlyn said she’d love to continue writing and recording music. Ideally, she’d like to have an opportunity to sing, act and dance professionally, she added.
“I would love to return to Nashville but I don’t have any immediate plans right now,” said the singer. “Since my last visit I did write another song with Sarah Majors, one of my favorite co-writers. It’s a fun duet for my father that I call, ‘Know It All.’”
Considering Kaitlyn first got involved in music because of her father, it should come as no surprise that her parents are one of her biggest inspirations. In fact, her first performance was with her father, singing Elvis Presley’s “Teddy Bear” at the Chenango County Fair when she was five.
“I loved it so much I begged my parents to let me enter the talent show, where I sang “Tomorrow,” stated Jackson. “My parents have put a lot of time into my music and they’ve been a big help along the way.”
Kaitlyn said that music is simply a creative way for her to express herself, whether its singing, acting or dancing. Whether she’s feeding off the energy of a live crowd, having an chance to work with professional writers, musicians and producers or honing her musical talents, as long as she’s performing, she’s happy.
“She’s really worked hard at this,” said Kaitlyn’s mother Terri of her daughter’s burgeoning music career. “We weren’t sure if this was something she really wanted, but when she got to Nashville, she worked so hard. We’re so proud of her.”
For more information on Kaitlyn Jackson and her debut CD visit www.kaitlynjacksonmusic.com.