Branches (2004) Photographie par Jessi Hamilton

Though only 20 and not even born at the onset of the Women-Who-Rock movement, Jessi Hamilton is sure to be a name that will soon be added to the list of important female singer/songwriters.

Currently recording her debut album, Jessi Hamilton writes, sings and plays music that is both passionate and compelling. Hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, Jessi has spent years honing her craft, which is a radio friendly blend of piano-driven soulful rock'n'roll and ethereal, yet powerful ballads. Though she refuses to be trapped by having to always deliver one specific style of music, Hamilton is able to keep her recordings consistent by means of her exceptional voice. In addition to her ability to write and sing her songs, Hamilton is also an exceptional piano and keyboard player. Formally trained in piano since the age of four, she has extensive experience in playing rock, classical, Broadway and some jazz styles of piano. After hearing Jessi Hamilton's current recordings it all comes together: amazing musicianship; songs from the heart and a voice that is undeniable.

At the age of 14, Hamilton connected with Raleigh-area producer and recording engineer, Chris Stevens, who helped her make her first demos. Hamilton and Stevens worked off and on for four years, until her current style (and some of these songs) had been developed and recorded.

In 2002, she caught the attention of music journalist and artist manager Bruce Pilato who has worked with several platinum artists as diverse as Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Foreigner, The Tubes and Asia. In addition to signing with Pilato Entertainment, she also was able to retain the North Carolina law firm that represents platinum superstars Hootie & The Blowfish.

Rather than follow the traditional method of using demos to get a record deal and having the label pay for (and own) her records, Hamilton's family was able to fund the remaining equipment necessary to allow her and Stevens to make a world-class album in his Raleigh-based studio. Bruce Pilato is also involved in the album's production.

RockRGrl Magazine recently named Hamilton as one of the best unsigned female acts in the country. She will also be featured on their Discoveries Compilation CD and in the magazine later this year. Jessi is currently working with her band in Upstate N.Y. in preparations for a summer tour.

• Nationalité: ÉTATS-UNIS
• Date de naissance : date inconnue
• Domaines artistiques:
• Groupes: Artistes Contemporains Américains