Whitewoods

Whitewoods is a Richmond, Virginia-based duo consisting of Scott Ferguson and Gary Gauze. Emerging during the early 2010s internet music boom, they became central figures in the vaporwave and chillwave scenes.

Their sound identity is built on 'hypnagogic' principles: using the cultural detritus of the 1990s (commercials, pop melodies, smooth jazz) to evoke a dreamlike state of nostalgia. Unlike many of their contemporaries who remained strictly anonymous or sample-heavy, Whitewoods integrated original instrumentation and vocals, giving their work a distinct 'band' feel despite their lack of live performances. Their career reached a cultural peak when the track 'Beach Walk' became a viral sensation, particularly within the YouTube commentary and aesthetic communities. Critically, they are viewed as a bridge between the plunderphonics of early vaporwave and the more structured, song-oriented approach of chillwave. Their association with the Business Casual label solidified their position as essential architects of the 'internet-era' aesthetic, influencing a wave of bedroom producers who prioritize texture and mood over traditional high-fidelity production.