Name: William Wild
Location: Knoxville, TN
Links: www.williamwildmusic.com
When and how did you discover your passion for music?
I was always interested in music growing up. I played in several bands through junior high and high school, but I think we it all really clicked was when I learned about “home recording”. I got interested in several artists like Elliot Smith and Bon Iver that recorded everything on really minimal equipment and thats pretty much when I dove in and never looked back.
You’re already an established artist, something a lot of our users aspire to become. What’s the story behind your career so far?
After a few years of learning about recording and music production I decided to make a record of my own and release it. I started it my sophomore year of college and finally released it towards the end of my Senior year. Half way through that process I was given the opportunity to finish recording the album in a giant lake house that my best friend’s grandparents had just moved out of. I had the entire house to myself for almost a year… I set up shop in the great room which had 25 ft ceilings and a lake view… It was amazing. It was pretty far outside of town and I really enjoyed the drive to get in the mindset of making art. The distance also made it to where i would stay out there for 15 hr stints sometimes. I will never forget the months spent in that house learning how to make music. After the first William Wild record, I slowly started touring and producing more music. I really have just spent a lot of time in bedroom studios trying to figure it all out. I don’t feel like I’m special or gifted really, I’m just obsessed. I still don’t feel like I know what I’m doing, but I do know that I will be doing it for the rest of my life.
For the Superior Drummer 3 launch, Toontrack asked you to write a custom song. What were your thoughts going in and how do you feel about it now looking back?
I had a great time. It’s what I do most days anyway, so involving other people and a company whose products I already use made it that much more fun!
As for writing songs, do you have a general blueprint, meaning you start with the music, then move on to lyrics etc? Or is every song unique in how it comes about?
Songs come from anywhere and everywhere. It could be literally anything. Maybe I’ll make some drone sound in Pro Tools and sing nonsense on top of it and then build a song. I might just sit down with an acoustic, I might sample my neighbor Mary talking about her cat. Anything! For me, getting started is the hardest part. The song always changes and flips so many times that the original idea is completely gone sometimes, but just being present and starting is the important thing.
What’s your preferred instrument to write on?
Historically acoustic guitar, but my suitcase Rhodes has been a heavy hitter lately.
When do usually the most ideas for songs come to you
I try and “show up” everyday. Thats the only way for me…I just have to sit down and try something everyday. Early in the morning and super late at night are the most fruitful times. Lots of times I get ideas watching films… I love movies and they inspire me.
Top-five of the greatest songs ever written – regardless of genre!
This is impossible for me, every one of my favorite songs are perfect for certain reasons and feelings but here’s something…
Paul Simon “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”
Fleetwood Mac “The Chain”
Bon Iver “Skinny Love”
Crosby, Stills, & Nash “Helplessly Hoping”
George Harrison “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
