whoa dakota, “lovefool”

whoa dakota, “lovefool”

If you haven’t experienced the ethereal vocal wonderment that is Whoa Dakota (Jesse Ott), then why not try the act on for size with an updated version of one of your favorite 90s tracks? The indie pop songstress has mastered several throwback options — trust us, we’ve seen her multiple times live and she absolutely destroys every stage she’s on — and this is one of our favorites. And is there a more perfect time of year to be pulling this one out of our back pockets, anyway?

Happy Valentine’s Day, and every day, with this flirty, fun track!

Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.

whoa dakota + chase the horseman @ the brick

whoa dakota + chase the horseman @ the brick

On the chilly evening of Thursday November 21st, Chase the Horseman and Whoa Dakota entertained an enthusiastic crowd at The Brick in The Crossroads district of Kansas City, MO. To experience either is an absolute joy, but we will always sing the praises of Whoa Dakota. The project — championed by singer/songwriter Jesse Ott — is so much fun to watch. In fact, this is an act we urge you to see live. Though the song recordings are incredible, they still give no justice to Ott’s far-ranging, angelic vocals, the true instrumental leader of the project. If you get a chance, check them out next time they’re through town!

Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.

whoa dakota @ riot room

whoa dakota @ riot room

On June 29th, one of the most extraordinary voices in up-and-coming pop music visited the patio at Riot Room in Westport. Whoa Dakota (Jesse Ott) entertained in some of the sweatiest weather, the lighting and fan giving the tone a Beyonce effect, while the crowd basked in the glow. Photos below!

Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.

whoa dakota, “right now”

whoa dakota, “right now”

Exploding out of the starting gate with a new single that has already been pitted to be a fan favorite is Whoa Dakota with her single, “Right Now.” Along with all of the well composed musical aspects of this single, this track also comes with a heavy lyrical message that almost makes it feel like pure, undiluted lament. Throughout its entirety, Whoa Dakota explores the toxicity of self-sabotage within a relationship and the overwhelming fear that can be born from such a damaging experience. Despite the rave over the intensity of the lyrics, there is something to still be said of the vocal and musical talent that is demonstrated throughout the track. As words are coupled with tangible emotion in the vocal work, listeners are transported to an atmosphere that is controlled completely by Whoa Dakota.

Not only does this single have the immediate staying power based off of meaning and wonderfully crafted beat and rhythm, but it has also proven to be a full blown success. Since the release of “Right Now,” it has racked up over 130k streams on Spotify alone. With this exploding popularity comes many more opportunities. In the future, fans can expect Whoa Dakota to be performing on bigger, grander stages. Based off of this track alone, it is clear that this Nashville, TN artist is ready to reach a whole new level in her music career.

Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.

whoa dakota, “patterns”

whoa dakota, “patterns”

On Friday, Nashville’s intensely talented Whoa Dakota (Jess Ott) released the first step to her sophomore effort – a debut full-length titled Patterns, a follow up to 2015’s I’m a Liar EP -, the album’s coveted title track. “Patterns” is a groovy, nostalgic tribute to the 90’s in its composition and feel, a buoyant lead in for your fall season. It’s not always you find an artist whose vocals expertly complement instrumentals, especially one who hasn’t yet released a full-length. But Whoa Dakota brings every element to the forefront in a very clever and divine way. So take a four minute and nineteen second break to put a little more bounce in your work ethic today, with this sweet narrative on breaking “Patterns”.

Keep up with Whoa Dakota here.