Jacob Whitesides releases debut album 'Why?'

Performing 'Lovesick' on NBC's 'Today,' ABC's 'LIVE with Kelly'

Jacob Whitesides today released his highly anticipated debut full-length album, "Why?", via his own Double U Records. The album debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes singer/songwriter chart and is available now HERE.

To celebrate the release of "Why?", Jacob will perform the album's lead single, "Lovesick," on NBC's "Today" on Wednesday, Sept. 14, and on ABC's "LIVE with Kelly" on Thursday, Sept. 15. Tune in to NBC at 7 a.m. and ABC at 9 a.m. ET to catch the performances.

"Why?", produced by Nashville-based David Spencer, showcases the soulful singing and songwriting of an 18-year old whose independent approach has captured the attention of critics and industry tastemakers, as well as connecting with millions of fans around the world.

The album is a powerful 13-track collection of songs, brimming with standouts like the finger-clicked soul-pop of "Lovesick" ("A fun song about getting in trouble with your girl") and "Focus," which reflects on the stress of a love in our current culture of distraction.

Whitesides' songs are, by and large, heartfelt and relatable. Sometimes they're lighthearted, but even when they're upbeat, there's often another level to the lyrics as the listener dives deeper into the music. "Love Slow" was inspired by the struggle of being 18 and in a relationship, and on "Bury Our Love" when he sings, "I was old before I was young" the line rings particularly true, echoing his musical talents and accomplishments.

"Why?" is the follow-up to Whitesides two chart-topping EPs, "A Piece of Me" and "Faces On Film" (both OF which stood for days at No. 1 on iTunes singer/songwriter chart in 2015).

Later this month, Jacob will embark on a fall tour supporting Ben Rector. Tickets and on-sale information can be found at www.jacobwhitesides.com.