Departure is Jesse McCartneys newest
release and has already generated two
huge hits, "Leavin" and his second single
"It's Over."  How Do You Sleep, his third
single, will be released soon.  Departure
is based on his creativity and growth in
his musical career and as a Rhythm and
Blues artist.  His immense fan base has
already embraced his new style.  The
video for "It's Over" premiered on My
Space  with over 500,000 views in just
two days. Jesse said it was his favorite
video to do to date and appreciates his
fans support.  He said, " It's really nice
to see all the fans reacting so positively."
The concept behind Departure was
Jesse's desire to make an album that
was a reflection of the music he grew up
listening to.  The foundation for his music
came from listening to great artists of the
past. He was digging through his parents
albums when he was younger and found,
Thriller, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder
a great basis for a music career to come.
The first albums Jesse bought himself
were "Crazy, Sexy, Cool" by TLC and
Seals "Kissed By A Rose."  Jesse always
felt that he was best at singing R & B
and by his third CD he knew that's what
he wanted to do.  He feels that this CD
is a natural progression for him as an
artist. He said this album was made to
appeal to everyone and hopes that it
reaches all age groups.  Jesse said,
"If you want to invest in me as an artist,
I'm pretty stoked about that!"
He has made progress in his songwriting career,
as well.  He is currently writing for Toni Braxton's
new CD.  He considers himself more of a lyricist
who approaches his songwriting honestly.  He
writes from his personal experiences and picks
up new ideas from other artists, producers and
their styles. He loves being in the studio.  He said,
"Every time I walk into a studio to work with some-
one new, it's my favorite because I know I'm going
to learn something new that day."  He finds writing
fulfilling and certainly progressive. Jesse said, "I
think that I'm still evolving as a songwriter."  He is
very modest considering he co-wrote the #1 hit
"Bleeding Love" with One Republic singer and
writer, Ryan Tedder. For Jesse, having Leona
Lewis sing Bleeding Love was a blessing in dis-
guise.  Jesse said, " It was overwhelming how
well it did."  As much as Jesse McCartney loves
singing and songwriting, acting is also his passion.
He has just completed a six-week guest role on
the ABC Family show, Greek to air next spring.
I asked him whether he preferred singing or
acting.  He said, " I love them both dearly and
don't know if I could ever choose. I'm trying to
stay as versatile as I can."  Jesse approaches
both with the dedication and professionalism that
makes this young man so popular.  He also has
the most knowledgeable and dedicated fans.  He
wants them to know that he enjoys writing songs
and making music for them.  Jesse said, :" I'm
working on other areas of my career for my fans
other than singing where they know me best."
We feel the best of Jesse McCartney is still to
come.
DEPARTURE
FEATURING "LEAVIN'"
AND "IT'S OVER"
IN STORES NOW
INTERVIEW BY
LEE ANN KLAMERT
RETURN TO MY TEEN
SCENES
Check out Jesse McCartneys latest info on My
Space