Amazing Imogen.

Last Friday was one of those supremely awesome days. I woke up (albeit, a little late, but that's nothing new in my world) to Niall making me some yummy breakfast and much needed strong-ass coffee. He was helping take the pressure off because he knew I was headed to the studio for more vocals (because as we know, I get a little nervous). After a shower and some warm-ups, we were off to the studio. My lovely sister, Shelby, met us at there a bit later. We started with one of my favorite songs, which might actually be my first single - "Hard Enough." It took a few run through's (and quite possibly whiskey-flavored tea) to get comfortable, but after a bit we got it down. Then Shelby was up. I wasn't sure how she would do - performing live & studio recording are completely different beasts... and she nailed it. Sitting there in the booth and listening to her harmonize was definitely one of the most memorable moments of this album so far. I feel so lucky to have such a talented sister, and so lucky that she enjoys singing with me. It was awesome! "Love Again" was next, and was a quickie. Maybe three full runs and we had everything we needed. That felt good :).

The evening only got better. Niall, Shelby & I met up with Barry, Leighdle & Debbie and drove down to the Mountain Winery. We picked up some drinks and dinner on the way, which we ate on a blanket up on the top of that mountain. You could see for miles! Some of our lovely friends from the super-duper band Kindness & Lies joined us and we enjoyed the sunset together. We had SO much fun that we were late (can you believe it?) to the show! The first Imogen Heap song sounded and we all ran like professional sprinters toward the venue. Let me just say this, if you ever have a chance to see a show at the Mountain Winery - don't miss it. It has got to be one of my favorite venues at this point (and I'm excited to see Swell Season there next month)! The beautiful venue was only surpassed by the awesomely talented and always inspiring Imogen Heap. Stream her new album "Ellipse" here. You won't be disappointed. In her live show, Imogen used a pedal board to layer her vocals on top of previously recorded sounds, like birds flocking from overhead trees & harmonics from wine glasses, on top of live sounds she made on stage with her body. It was like watching a scientist work.

A very pretty, musical scientist.

Now for the Best Part...

Recording vocals! This past Tuesday was my first scheduled day of studio time - for just me. And for some reason, instead of being totally psyched, I was nervous! Terrified actually. Why the hell was I nervous? I'm the first to point out my own weaknesses, but when it comes to just singing - I'm pretty confident. So what exactly was so damn scary? I was anxious for days beforehand, and at one point I even started to convince myself that I was sick (not even close) and losing my voice (definitely not). Something told me that I was over-reacting, actually - someone. Niall said to me "You have nothing to be nervous about. This is the best part. You can go in there and do what you do, and no matter what happens, you'll be fine. If you don't like it, Adam can fix it or you can go in another day and re-record it. Don't stress." I took a deep breath and tried to relax. This was supposed ot be the best part...

Tuesday arrived and I was late. I was stressing, trying to prepare for this last minute FREE show I'm playing on Saturday, helping Niall promote his (AMAZING) photography debut coming up next Saturday, and all of the sudden it was time to be at the studio and I hadn't left my apartment yet. Being late is like a disease for me, no matter how hard I try, I can't seem to fix it. So I literally run into the studio and profusely apologize to Adam. If he was pissed, he hid it well, and so we began. The room was dimly lit, with a candle and a small lamp. I took my shoes off - we started with my new song Linger... and the rest was easy. No more stress, no more anxiety - just the 6 hours of music. I let myself get carried away by the melody, and everything happened naturally.

Yep, it was the best part.

Funny Story.

Right before my last show in LA, my opening act called and cancelled. We're talking the day before. I nearly flipped my sh*t. Luckily, she said she knew someone who could fill in. Turns out, her friend and very talented musician, John Torres had agreed to play. I hadn't met him before, so I was looking out for him the night of the show, not quite sure what he looked like in person. So I was setting up for the show - you know, the glamorous load-in that established acts have groupies do, when John walked in.  I was in some super high heels (which I take off while I play anyway, but thats not the point) and I turn and say "Oh, hi! Are you John?  It's so nice to me--"  And then BOOM, I miss a step and face-planted into the beer soaked floor.

Way to make a first impression, Whitney.

It was so tragically embarrassing, that he didn't even laugh. He though I might be actually hurt. Oh yes, it looked that bad. What can I say, I'm a complete klutz. Anyway - Fast forward to showtime and the John Torres band (er, duo) were nothing short of amazing. John on guitar/vocals & Tino on cajon, they are a sexy blend of captivating performance, strong melodies and lyrics that make your heart swell & hurt at the same time. Check 'em out, especially their song Hallelujah, you won't be disappointed.