Today we’d like to introduce you to Will Dakota.
Hi Will, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Born in Minnesota, raised in North Dakota. I found my passion for music my senior year of high school at age 17. I taught myself how to play piano and guitar which resulted in writing my own music as well as playing shows at any bar or small club I could get into around ND. During that time after making several trips to Nashville I decided to make the move at age 19 and have been in Nashville for 5+ years now. Over the years I have toured around the US as well as played shows in Mexico and Costa Rica while writing and releasing music independently.
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?
The road through this journey has definitely had its ups and downs and occasional pot holes. It’s tough being an independent artist and working to get established, but I truly love it along with the freedom to make my own decisions and have the freedom to do so. When 2020 came around resulting in the cancellation of numerous shows due to the pandemic, it was tough to lose that income from shows where independent artists mainly lean on.
Through the years to sustain myself I’ve had to work some side jobs ranging from delivering pizzas to property management.
The most recent challenge which I am still dealing with to this day was on April 13th, 2021. I was stabbed in a grocery store in the middle of the day in East Nashville. This resulted in emotional trauma I am still working through, as well as the physical damage which occurred to my right hand from blocking the attacker. This resulted in 13 stitches, loss of work, and emotional healing. I will never be 100% in my hand ever again but I am eternally grateful that I am able to create music as well as play music after this.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a singer/songwriter artist. I play piano, guitar, bass, drums and of course sing. I am known for my unique, soothing voice as well as originality in my music and live performances. I am most proud of continuing to chase my dreams no matter what and what sets me apart is I will never give up.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Follow your own heart and gut. Be kind to others, be respectful, and along with that respect will be earned. Whenever you get knocked down you can always find a better way up. Be yourself.
Contact Info:
- Email: willdakotamusic@gmail.com
- Website: www.willdakota.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewilldakota/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewilldakota
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCFbNzRf-wr1zvcUQ9G5W6g
