‘Skipping Stones’ is the brand new and deeply introspective tune from Miami-based singer/songwriter, producer, and guitarist Cliff Whitakker. It’s a laid-back and breezy little tune, with delicate guitar work, downtempo drums, and the inviting, rich vocals of Whitakker himself. A little pop, a little blues, and even a touch of hip-hop are all thrown into the mix to create ‘Skipping Stones’, and it’s this versatility and range that truly sets Whitakker apart from his peers.
Lyrically, the musician reminisces over the past, and the sadness and frustrations that are often inevitable in the growing up process. “I’ve been skipping stones and I guess that’s how it goes when your dreams are getting sold and your folks are getting old.” Working alongside friend and collaborator xwags, who provides vocals for the second verse, Cliff Whitakker has produced a simply stunning track that we at Indie Top 39 just cannot get enough of!
‘Skipping Stones’ is a beautifully introspective, nostalgia-laced, and melodic track from a distinctly skilful artist.
INDIE TOP 39
What does the song mean to you?
The song encapsulates the frustrations that come with growing up and experiencing change.
Tell us about your creative process and how the song came to be?
The song started with a simple guitar riff. After layering drums and bass over the initial idea, I came up with a vocal melody to fit the chorus. The first lyric that came to me was “I’m skipping stones.” Right then and there I knew what the song would be called. I came up with the rest of the lyrics by paying attention to how the music made me feel: hopeless, but peaceful. With those two themes in mind I chose to write about the frustrations that come with the passage of time and the changing of circumstances.
What does success mean to you?
I grew up obsessing over music because it gave me the opportunity to explore a world that wasn’t my own. I would (and still do) get lost in my favorite songs and artists because their creations inspire me and fill me with joy. To me, success is creating music that will have that effect on others.
What do you want to achieve in the next 12 months with your music?
I want to spend the next 12 months working on my craft as a guitar player and singer/songwriter. I feel like with every song I make, I am able to more accurately channel my ideas and my emotions. It excites me to continually add songs to my catalog that fans can call their own. Additionally, I’d like to do acoustic shows and hone my skills as a performer.
Make sure to connect with Cliff Whitakker on Instagram »
Now you can listen to all the 39 songs in one place, right here on Spotify!
This coverage was created in collaboration with Musosoup as part of the #SustainableCurator movement.
