You know how you have that one singer or musical group who just the mention of their name turns you into a straight-up crazed fan? Or when the sound of your fave song’s first few chords gives you the shivers and instantly turns your frown upside down? And—although I’m sure you’d never admit it—maybe you’ve even found yourself shedding a tear (or two) out of the sheer excitement of seeing that person, group or band in concert, live and up close? Go ahead, admit it….

Because I’ve been there, too!

So, which singer makes me all wobbly in the knees and feel like I can take on the world all at the same time? That would be the one and only, supremely talented and wickedly cute Gavin Degraw!

You can imagine how psyched I was to find out that his new self-titled album was finally set to come out May 6th—five (long) years after his debut album, Chariot.

Just a little background: Gavin quickly became popular back in 2003 when his hit single, “I Don’t Want to Be” became the theme song for The WB teen drama, “One Tree Hill” (starring former cheerleader and AC cover girl Hilarie Burton!). With “OTH” enthusiasts on board and a growing fan-base of his own, his first CD easily skyrocketed to platinum-status. Most recently, Gavin wrote and recorded the single, “We Belong Together” for the 2006 film Tristan and Isolde, which is also included on his upcoming album.

After hearing all 12 of the tracks off his new album, I’m happy to report that Gavin’s back and better than ever! Seriously…he’s still THAT good!

Gavin Degraw still boasts the love-inspired lyrics (worthy of any good mixed CD) that the New York native’s known for, but adds a slight rock sound to his tunes. But don’t let the swoon-worthy themes fool you—his first single “In Love With A Girl” will totally make you wanna reach for your guitar and rock out.

So, mark it down on your calendar and then get ready for Gavin Degraw to become your next favorite CD! In the meantime, take a look at the video for his first single (featuring Kristin Cavallari from “Laguna Beach” as his flirting buddy—SO jealous!).

☺
Brittany

Tell me who rocks YOUR world at brittany@americancheerleader.com