Music Spotlight: okaywill

written by: Jevon Armstrong

Recently we had the opportunity to interview lead man Will of the band okaywill. Will, who began writing and producing at the age of 14, has broken into the indie-pop scene with his band okaywill. Picking up music at an early age in the Carolinas, he began to find it his true passion, and it shows in his music. Will took drum lessons when he was young, which helped him discover how to make music on the computer. Okaywill pulls inspiration from Paul Simon, MGMT, ELO, and Foster the People.

We had to ask where the name came from, and his response made our jaws drop in disbelief. "The name is a bit of a joke but also how I kinda see myself. It’s not goodwill, nor badwill. It’s right in the middle. I’m basically calling myself a mediocre artist" After listening to his music, okaywill is definitely not mediocre, at least in our opinion.

Criticism can sometimes be a difficult pill to swallow, but it has to be taken with a grain of salt. "Everyone likes certain styles of music. I totally understand if my music isn’t understood by people because it has to resonate with you. If it doesn’t, then that’s okay." Will tells us when he is responding to the criticism that he receives. We could all take a lesson from that.

The biggest challenge that he faces is getting live shows prepped. He's been focusing all of his time on writing, but more live shows are in the pipeline. Since this is his full time job, there aren't many other obligations, "which is a blessing." Will tries to practice every day.

Advice comes in all shapes and sizes, for Will, it was simple, "Hustle." He advises anyone looking to get in the music industry, "make a ton of music, and PUT IT OUT!!! (cannot stress that enough). HUSTLE, HUSTLE, HUSTLE!!! "

New music will be coming out from okaywill all year, while a tour could be coming soon.

Access to his music can be found on any digital store and YouTube.

https://okaywill.lnk.to/Falling