“A must-see live performer.”
Muarice Starr
Independent artist Jody Whitesides has always refused to play the victim. With his hard rock edge and guitar-driven fire, “I Don’t Blame” is a definitive statement from his 1997 album Delicate Stretch of the Seems. This re-release showcases Jody’s sharp songwriting and uncompromising stance: personal responsibility is non-negotiable. Written during a summer of late nights delivering pizzas and watching the O.J. Simpson trial dominate TV, the song cuts through cultural noise with one clear message — stop pointing fingers, start owning choices.
Recorded originally on ADAT and later re-mixed with modern tools like Logic, Melodyne and LUNA, “I Don’t Blame” now roars with fresh clarity. The guitars are tighter, the drums hit harder, and Andy’s vocals are given the polish they always deserved. Jody’s creative process shines here: fearless, self-critical, and unwilling to settle.
“[Jody’s] performances and material show lots of skill and craft without sacrificing heart or conviction.”
Music Connection Magazine
After initial studies at Berklee in Boston, Jody flew west to achieve his ambitions, studying at the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood. An LA showcase performance caught the ear of a talent scout, and soon thereafter, entertainment impresario Maurice Starr became interested as a consultant. Given Starr’s track record, his desire to work with Jody is not one to be taken lightly.
Central to Jody’s potential is his tireless work ethic and fighter’s heart. As a former competitive athlete — in freestyle skiing, he was ranked among the top 20 in the US. Now on he’s on the verge of turning pro in the sport of pickleball. He’s learned the tenacity and effort required to achieve his ambitions. He brings that fiery drive from the slopes and the courts to the studio and the stage.
Much like Jody and his towering, 6’4” frame, “I Don’t Blame” resonates in 2025 as much as it did in the late ’90s. In a world still riddled with scapegoating — from politics to social media — Jody’s defiant anthem insists that accountability is power. It’s a hard rock reminder that strength comes from owning your path, not deflecting blame.
“I love that song [of Jody’s]. That’s commercial. That’s a hit.”
Frosty, Heidi & Frank (97.1 KLSX FM, Los Angeles)
This re-release isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a refreshed statement of independence, responsibility, and artistry. And it’s only the beginning. Stay tuned as Jody reopens his catalog with new energy week after week.
Jody is endorsed by Taylor Guitars, Sennheiser, G7th, Seymour Duncan Pickups, Joe’s Guitars, Cleartone Strings, Studio Devil, Red Wirez, iZotope, Native Instruments, Plugin Alliance, Grosh Guitars, Telefunken, and Line 6.