“A must-see live performer.”
Maurice Starr
Independent artist Jody Whitesides has built a reputation for fearlessly blending heavy guitars, intricate rhythms, and lyrical depth. Ties Are Truly Bound, first released on his 1997 album Delicate Stretch of the Seems, is a striking example of his artistry — a hard rock statement infused with both precision and passion. Driven by the low-end power of an Ibanez Universe 7-string, the track is equal parts muscle and message. The riffs nod toward Satriani, the atmospherics whisper Queensrÿche, yet the finished piece is undeniably Jody’s own.
Lyrically, Ties Are Truly Bound reflects on resilience through hardship, capturing the tension between gravity’s pull — reality, responsibility — and the liberating float of imagination and connection. Even when disconnected, Jody reminds us, we remain bound by invisible ties: love, struggle, fate, or addiction. Its paradox is what makes it timeless.
“[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, the track is also a story of growth. Born from Jody’s time playing in a Queensrÿche tribute band, the song carried lessons from those live chops into original creation. The odd divisions in the intro made it a challenge to master live — something that drove bandmate Andy crazy until Jody nailed it. The “gravity” effect in the vocals, originally buried under poor sampling, reemerges more clearly in the remix, showcasing the artist’s perfectionist streak.
“I love that song [of Jody’s]. That’s commercial. That’s a hit.”
Frosty, Heidi & Frank (97.1 KLSX FM, Los Angeles)
This is more than just a re-release; it’s a restored and re-energized chapter of Jody Whitesides’ catalog. And it sets the stage for what’s next in his weekly journey of rediscovery.
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.