Love Dog
Love Dog
Beginnings (2003–2005)
Love Dog began in 2003 as the vision of singer-songwriter Jason Witt, alongside guitarist Dain Silva. Inspired by ’90s alternative rock and bands like Mother Love Bone and Temple of the Dog, the duo quickly became part of the Colorado Springs music scene, playing open mics at the Ancient Mariner, Benny’s, and anywhere they could — including, memorably, a King Soopers grocery store lobby on Halloween. Their crowd-friendly energy and determination helped them stand out in a scene dominated by thrash metal and bluegrass.
In 2004, Jason teamed up with guest musician Vanessa White to record Love Dog’s first EP, Changing for the Best, on a four-track cassette recorder. This raw and intimate release laid the foundation for what was to come.
Early Recordings (2006–2008)
The band’s first full studio album, Letters to Myself (2006), was recorded at E Double G Studios in Colorado Springs. Originally intended as an acoustic project, it grew into a full-band recording, with the title track marking the first song Jason and Dain co-wrote. After several years of local success, Dain left in 2008 to pursue other projects, though his friendship with Jason endured.
New Collaborations (2009–2010)
Determined to keep the vision alive, Jason connected with Dan Wise, a young airman, and together they recorded the single Pleasure and Pain in 2009. Later that year, they collaborated with producer Christina “Sunshine” Corbitt at Sunshine Studios to release the album Do You Wanna Go. Shortly after, they were joined by bassist Eric Headle. For the first time, Love Dog was a fully realized band with growing momentum.
In 2010, Love Dog released La Mala Muchacha, its first true full-band studio effort, engineered by J-Rugg. The group briefly experimented with expanding its lineup, even adding a dobro player, Kelly Walker. Their reputation spread across the region, but soon after, Dan Wise’s military obligations took him to Afghanistan, pausing the band’s trajectory.
Challenges & Transition
Despite lineup changes, Love Dog pressed on. At one point, the band considered rebranding as Jackwagon, but audiences knew them best as Love Dog, and the name stayed. By late 2010, personal commitments led members to step back, and the band eventually disbanded as a full-time project.
Today & Beyond
Jason Witt continues to carry the Love Dog name, writing and recording new material as a solo artist while keeping the band’s spirit alive. With a new album on the horizon, Love Dog’s story remains one of resilience, vision, and heart — always ready for the next chapter.