Today we’d like to introduce you to Blue Willow.
Hi Blue, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi,
We’re Blue Willow , a indie rock band based out of Nashville, TN. We’ve been a group since around 2017, but the members have changed over the years. Our current group of members have been playing together for about three years and we’ve made huge headway in that little amount of time. The group has played several festivals and are working on a full length album, that we plan on releasing later this year. It’s truly special to get to play with such a talented group of musicians. As a band we aspire to leave a positive impact on our community and each other. I can say for myself these guys are some of my closest friends and the satisfaction of taking the stage and nailing a song is indescribable. The joy that this project brings us and others will always be the driving force behind why we keep trucking.
BW
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We’ve had struggles for certain. I’d say parting ways with members was always tough, you become a family and something almost new that you can’t find anywhere else. I’d say even when you remain friends that time you shared was just unique and somehow lost to time. I’d also say the times when we screw up on stage those are tough. You prepare as much as you can, but sometimes it happens, not your day I guess. We’ve come to make light of these times by just dogging ourselves as soon as we get off stage even if it is a perfect show. Our bassist Matt, always jokes he never does anything wrong and it was all us. It’s fun. I know sometimes we also just have conflict within our group we’ve got to overcome, we’re people so naturally you’re going to ruffle each others feathers sometimes. We try to keep things light, but also have a democratic approach to discussing issues that occur. We have and always will put things to a vote.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We’re a group of musicians, but also a group of brothers. I’d say the fun of creating the songs, making the vibes for others, and designing artwork is always special. We’re super excited to share the art we’ve spent time cultivating together with others so that’s always a fun thing to do. I’d say I’m most proud of our healthy band dynamic to be honest, the music is great and will always be what bonds us together, but some bands don’t connect like how we’ve done. We’re all from different backgrounds, and beliefs, but we work together to allow each other to create art.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Well for myself I’d say that when I read ” Do androids dream of Electric Sheep?” by Phillip K. Dick, that the philosophy behind what he poured behind that book helped my viewpoints of life greatly. I’d also have to say the Bible, for sure has helped me with my art. I can’t speak for the rest of the band, but the teachings of Jesus, and his message are definitely interwoven into the lyrics and the songs we sing, but in a way that it’s approachable for anyone. I’d also say the original Spiderman collection was huge influence on me as a young adult, the struggles of a young broke man figuring out balance is great story telling.
-Matthew Johnston (Guitar/Vocals)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluewillowband/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBlueWillowBand/
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2gxjFYPHox5akjvtL6xUL0
