The hit show "One Tree Hill" on the CW11 has had its fair share of musicians on the show, some who have also made contributions to the show's soundtrack. Such artists include Fall Out Boy, Jack's Mannequin, Michelle Branch, and Tyler Hilton. Now adding to the list is music newcomer and Ohio native Kate Voegele.

Kate Voegele released her first full-length album, entitled "Don't Look Away," on May 22, 2007. The 21-year-old singer-songwriter signed with MySpace Records in October 2006.

Tracks on her album range from catchy pop rhythms you can't help but bop along with, like "Chicago," to piano-based, soulful ballads like "Wish You Were."

I first learned about Kate Voegele while watching "One Tree Hill" and was surprised I had not heard of her sooner. In "One Tree Hill"'s fifth season, Kate Voegele first appears in the fourth episode playing the character Mia.

In the show Voegele plays Mia, the shy pianist in a rock band with an obnoxious lead signer, played by Kevin Federline. After Federline's character is fired from the band, Mia is given the opportunity to work on her own solo album. In the fourth episode of the season Voegele performs her own song "Kindly Unspoken."

I'm sad to admit that if I had not watched "One Tree Hill" I probably would have missed out on the talent of this young artist. This contemporary singer-songwriter has a refreshing sound and a powerful, soulful voice you would not expect to come from a woman of her age. If her voice alone does not your capture your attention, her undeniable piano skills in her single "Kindly Unspoken" will.

Many critics say Voegele is an old soul with a youthful spirit, and after listening to her album, I must agree. Her lyrics show she has a strong sense of who she is and that she has learned from her life experiences. Even when she sings about a break up, Voegele never plays the damsel in distress, but rather a strong young woman.

Although all the songs on the album are great and noteworthy, I would have to say my favorites ones are "It's Only Life," "Only Fooling Myself," "Wish You Were," and of course "Kindly Unspoken." These four songs just spoke to me and I can't seem to stop singing them in my head.

With talent like hers I can see Voegele easily gaining popularity and gain an even bigger fan base. I think it's about time we heard more songs with genuine lyrics from talented artists rather than hear the same overdone, glittery, Britney Spears wannabe artists who are just looking for their 15 minutes of fame. If you're looking for something with substance, pick up this album.

If anyone wants to see Voegele try her hand at acting she is, according to her blog on MySpace, scheduled to appear in five more episodes of "One Tree Hill" every Tuesday on the CW11.

Source: sbstatesman.com