Tradewinds December 2014 Web

Every year, post offices across America,
Canada and other parts of the world are
flooded with letters from kids addressed
to Santa Claus. The Canadian Post Office
receives so many that some postal workers
started answering the letters. As the
demand increased, the postal service set up
a special zip code for Santa as part of their
annual “Santa Letter-writing Program”
literacy initiative. The zip code? H0H0H0,
of course.
Monthly Music Review:
Outer Banks Solo Artist
By Derek Baker
This entry for the photo
contest was submitted by
Page After Page Bookstore
Graham Outten has been playing music all of his life. Quoting his parents, Outten says that “the nurses said
when I was born, it sounded like I was singing (not crying).” Influenced by Jason Mraz, CCR, and other artist
of the acoustic, country, and pop genres, Outten’s voice combines an affluence of pop and country that is
reminiscent of a classically trained vocalist with a a flare for creative vocal techniques that would not be out of
place on modern pop radio stations.
Graham seems to have a gift for entertainment. While talking about playing out in the community, Outten’s
face lit up. It was quite obvious that his emotional connection stems past his music and into the reaction of the
audience. Having watched him play out, the way he communicates to the audience is almost a supernatural
gift of emotion rarely seen in solo artists. “It’s an emotional connection for me,” said Outten.
Focusing on cover songs and only a few originals, Outten takes a song’s existing emotional presence and
spins a web of self-indulged sensuality that redefines the song’s existing sensitivity and allows him to create
and entirely new vibe that garners a sentiment from the audience that has a resemblance to artists who do
mostly original music.
This past year was a large milestone in Outten’s musical career. Quitting his full time job at a real estate
company, he became a full time musician, playing almost every night throughout the summer in location such
as The Outer Banks Brewing Station, Kelly’s of the Outer banks, and other high profile beach locations. Outten
said he hasn’t been without his struggles, though. During the winter months, businesses either close or
slow down to the point that live music is not necessary or financially feasible.
Whether or not Graham finds the success he is looking for, one thing is certain, his talent is exponential.
His powerhouse voice and soothing guitar form a perfect unison to give him an edge that draws crowed wherever
he plays. You can find Graham on Facebook.
If you would like to feature your band for an article, feel free to email Derek Baker at dabaker782@gmail.com
Phone # :
252-333-7034
2012 Can Am ATV DS90. Great
condition. $1500.00 333-7034 or
e-mail: bmnixon@gmail.com
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