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.
