J.L. Baker Wins Best Song Of The Month Contest

J.L. Baker, a talented rock/pop singer/songwriter based in Denver, CO, has won the SongwriterUniverse ‘Best Song Of The Month’ Contest for March, for his song “Independence Day.’ This song is included on his upcoming 4-song EP, Stand Alone, which he will release independently in May (2010).

‘Independence Day’ is a passionate acoustic/rock song, which in the mainstream vein of The Fray and Dave Matthews Band. It is particularly well crafted, with a surging pre-chorus which leads into strong, hooky chorus, plus an effective bridge section. The recording features expressive lead & harmony vocals by Baker, and it was expertly produced by Baker and Tyler Ward. On “Independence Day, ” Baker played the guitar tracks (acoustic & electric), while Ward played piano, bass and drums.

Baker was born and raised in Amarillo, TX, where he was inspired by listening to such artists as Bob Dylan, David Gray, and indie artist Ellis Paul. He started to play guitar and write songs in high school, and he entered Battle Of The Bands and other talent competitions. Following high school, Baker attended a local community college, where he majored in performance. He also learned the skills to work in the IT technology industry.

It was in 2007 that Baker recorded & released his first album, which was called My Quarter In The Machine. The next year (2008) he quickly followed up with his second album, Finding You. Both albums were produced by Baker in Amarillo, at Scott Houdashell’s Studio 66.

In 2009, Baker decided to move to Denver, where he met Tyler Ward, who is producing his upcoming EP. “I was referred to Tyler, who is an amazing musician,” said Baker. “He’s also an emerging artist.”

With his new EP, and with his third full album (which will be titled Something You’ve Left Behind) coming later this year, Baker looks forward to further establishing himself as a quality singer/songwriter. “My goal is to release new material and expand my fanbase, and to continue to develop relationships with festivals and songwriting competitions,” he said. “I love performing and playing many gigs. But I also have a true passion for songwriting, I would love to make a living as a songwriter, writing for other artists and collaborating.”