“Stairwells,” an album by YouTube performer/musician Kina Grannis was released on February 23rd with nothing more than just the money from her savings and support from her family, friends, and fans. There were no commercials, no publicists, no hyped up TV commercial spots, press releases or official radio plugs. Fans all over the world, called “Kination” and Grannis’ supporters, dubbed as “Street Teamers,” are what drove the success of the “Stairwells” album release.
Grannis’ heart and soul is imbedded in this album. Full of earnest lyrics in very emotionally induced songs, “Stairwells” is the epitome of an acoustic album. Songs such as “In Your Arms,” “Cambridge” and “Stay Just a Little” could possibly even leave the listener a little teary-eyed. The album also includes “Message From Your Heart,” the song that helped Grannis win the Crash The Superbowl contest.
“Stairwells” does not lack in emotion, and it definitely is excellent instrumentally as well. Grannis does away with all the overly mixed and digitized hooks, and takes advantage of the clean and crisp sounds of acoustic guitars and the piano. It is comparable to albums that have been produced by the likes of Jack Johnson and Colbie Caillat, who are also known for their acoustic songs.
Despite the lack of publicity, Stairwells made it to the Billboard’s Top 200. Grannis’ personality shines through in every song on the album. Her songs are inviting and very easy to relate to.
“Stairwells” is available for purchase through iTunes and through Grannis` website, www.kinagrannis.com. Songs can also be previewed before purchasing.
Visit http://www.youtube.com/kinagrannis to view the official music video for Grannis’ single “Valentine” and all other videos of her songs, both original and covers.