She's had songs featured on networks such as HBO, ABC, and NBC. Her amazing voice is even in an episode of Orange is the New Black. You may have heard her sultry, dark voice on one of these catchy songs and not even known it. Now, she's singing this summer's anthem.
Nashville-based alternative-pop artist Whissell, born Lauren Whistle, has dropped the song of the summer, and you need to hear it.
Her sound, which she describes in a previous Q&A as "Grace Potter meets Adele meets Lana Del Ray," can definitely be heard in new single "Been Here Before." What's it about, you may ask? Whissell, of course, describes it best: "'Been Here Before' is about that time in an unhealthy relationship when you realize the other person is never going to change and you've got to get out. I really wanted to write a song that encompasses all the emotions you go through at that time -- you're upset and vulnerable yet you feel empowered and free."
'Been Here Before' begins with an almost eerie yet seductive electronic opening, but soon the beat drops and you’re nodding your head before you know it. When Whissell's voice comes in, you automatically want to join her in what she's saying, immediately connecting with her frustration. The chorus is incredibly catchy: "I feel like I've been here before with you / No you can't take back what you put me through...And I'm never gonna go back."
There's that sense of being completely fed up and upset from how things have been going in the relationship, but it's freeing knowing that you've recognized it, you're over it, and you're free. Almost anyone can relate to it, and even if you yourself haven't been in that situation, Whissell makes you feel that anger and liberty all within three minutes and four seconds.
It's everyone and anyone's anthem. It's the kind of song that makes you dance, that makes you feel careless, free, and completely bad ass.
I'm officially declaring this song the Song of the Summer. Can't you just envision yourself in a car, windows down, speeding towards the beach? Poolside? On a vacation somewhere tropical? It's perfect for any summer playlist, and you'll have everyone impressed with your new find.
Listen to it for yourself here, I'm sure you'll love it:
Thank you to Morgan DeWitt, Isabella Margot and everyone at FourForty Artist Group for giving me this amazing opportunity.
Oh, and be sure to follow @WhissellMusic on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram to keep up to date on all her happenings.