Maine-born and raised singer-songwriter Chris Kemp White has been making music in and around Portland for more than twenty years. After performing almost exclusively with bands––HausCats, An Overnight Low, Andy Happel, Hotel Arrival and The Frotus Caper, to name a few––he is currently writing, arranging and recording solo material. Drawing from classic and modern influences like David Bowie, Crowded House, Wilco and Death Cab for Cutie, the songs explore both spiritual and everyday themes of love, loss and longing. Josh Rogers of the Portland Phoenix writes, “White’s got a knack for poetry, elevating the quality of his lyrics with inventive phrasing and word choice.”
Chris performs solo around Maine, sharing acoustic arrangements of original music and rearrangements of popular songs from the 60s to present. He released his first, self-titled, CD in June, 2016, then a 2-song record in partnership with boutique record label Leesta Vall later that year. Since summer 2018, Chris has been digitally releasing his song, making them available on iTunes, Spotify, Deezer, and other streaming formats. His latest song, “(They Can’t) Undo This Love” can be heard on 98.9 WCLZ, Frank FM, and 106.3 The Bone. He also plays bass and sings backing vocals with Portland cover band HausCats.
In spring of 2018, after teaching middle and high school social studies for 6 years, Chris changed careers to pursue music and carpentry full time. White balances his love of music with career and family. Above all, Chris cherishes time with his wife, Rachel, two children, Arran and Alice, and their dog, Ida.