In late 2009, Chicago-based singer/songwriter Jill Dawson returned to music. Her new sound is infused with jazz, pop, blues and soul. She's currently recording demos for music licensing, as well as her third CD, tentatively titled "The Basement Tapes. Recently, song "Never Home" (co-written with songwriter Greg Steele) was recorded by the winner of the Midwest Artist Search, Gaia Galvan, and schedule for release in July 2010.
Jill Dawson is also the founder of the nonprofit endeavor the MELODY FOR CHANGE PROJECT, writing and releasing songs to encourage and empower youth. She kicked off the endeavor with the release of her "girl anthem" theme WHEN I DREAM. The song was recently endorsed by Jess Weiner, Global Ambassador for Dove's Self Esteem Fund, and is currently the official theme song for apparel company Pigtail Pals.
Through the MELODY FOR CHANGE PROJECT, Jill's also partnering with LeaderSpark, providing her song "Change Our World" as a backdrop for the nonprofit organization's 2010 promo videos and fundraising campaign. Proceeds from these songs will support further MELODY FOR CHANGE PROJECT releases. Go to www.melody4changeproject.org learn more.
BIOGRAPHY
"Very fresh tasting acoustic pop ... destined to grab increasing attention soon" ~Muse's Muse
Chicago-based singer/songstress, Jill Dawson, has released two CDs of her unique fusion of styles, described as a "remarkable blend of folk and pop". Her music has been critically acclaimed and highlighted by some of the major regional media, including Chicago Centerstage, The Reader, and the Illinois Entertainer. Her CD, First Time Around, was nationally and internationally distributed, and her songs have been featured on NPR, PBS and college radio stations from east to west coast and across Europe. Her follow up CD, Acoustically Yours, was recorded in Australia at Spring Studios. Several of her songs ranked #1 on AAA Adult Contemporary chart on Australia's premiere MP3 website. Her live performances have captivated audiences, and she's been featured as a performer for the Midwest Artist Search Songwriter Showcase, the International Songwriting Competition, Folk Alliance (represented by CRM Management), Chicago's Singer Spotlight, the infamous Chick Singer Night, as well as the Venus Rising showcase in Melbourne Australia. Jill also founded FAB Chicago, a networking organization for female artists and bands which hosted sold-out showcases at the Heartland Cafe in Rogers Park.
PRESS COMMENTS!
Patrick Derksen, Rambles
“It’s sort of an alternative pop/folk sound… The result is a remarkable blend of music, always brought together by Jill’s expressive singing talent…. This album is very good; if you’re a fan of female vocalists, then Jill Dawson is someone you don’t want to miss. Her next album is anxiously awaited!”
Kate Schwartz, Centerstage Chicago
"She's a singer/songwriter with a folk/pop fusion, joining the rather crowded world of acoustic femmes. Dawson doesn't get lost in the shuffle though. Her voice is a lucky combination of strong and sweet with lyrics that don't put undue stock in the sweet end of the equation. She's honest, singing sung themes with a refreshing twist"
Chad Bowar, Suite 101
"Jill Dawson stands out in the crowded indie female singer/songwriter genre... She has a voice that is strong, warm and sweet... Her thoughtful lyrics match her vocal abilities and make for a very enjoyable listen."
Mark Cunningham, Grass Roots Entertainment
"Illinois-based singer/songwriter scores HIT with her first release... You can feel the quality, effort and talent combined from the first track. Jill Dawson is an example to all indie artists... Exceptional work."
Ben Omhart, Muse's Muse.
“Does Jill get it right the first time around. Well yeah! ...very fresh tasting acoustic pop...Jill is destined to grab increasing attention soon"
Jennifer Layton, Indie-Music
"The song "She" is a standout for its beautiful description of love’s saving grace. I played that one several times. It really touched me. So did the heartbreaking final track, "When I’m Gone," about a woman slipping away from life... "First Time Around" is a beautiful debut from this Chicago artist.
Joseph Filipak, Chicago Gigs
"What stands out from the first listen is how well she sings. Her lilting voice can be both powerful and sweet.... and if you have the chance to see her live, do so, you will be in for a real treat.”
SHORT & SWEETS...
4 of 5 stars! **** “tell your friends to go get it and to give you your copy back!… the whole album is screamingly good”
–PersyGrrl Review
"Melodic, compassionate....captivating" -John Noyd, Maximum Ink
"As a mature women with a bit of experience...she brings a different inflection to the usual tales..." -Monica Kendrick, Chicago Reader
"From the first listen, I felt a rare quality in her music…we should all keep our eyes on this treasure." -Nancy Walker, FSYWH
"A shining new talent who creates her own genre with an effortless blend of sophistication and warmth" -DWM Music Company
“Dawson… has a uniquely delicate style, in perfect balance …that never abandons its lovely floating quality even in the lower register and hums.” –Go Girls Music
