Pat Williams

Pat Williams looks to break new ground with his unique perspective on music production.  The artist began his music journey after listening to Kanye West’s “Late Registration”. Recognizing the album as an outlet for his thoughts, he has since written much of his music about introspection using his distinct form of storytelling. Toronto based rapper and songwriter dropped his debut EP, “Offline”, earlier this year. Williams’ style combines reverbed vocals with chaotic beats, all backed by melodic, ethereal synths. His genre-bending trademark has earned him over one thousand monthly Spotify listeners, as he attempts to make a name for himself by revolutionizing contemporary rap. We recently spoke with him about his favorite era of music, plans for the future, and more!

How did you get started making music?

I began by writing poems right before high school, around 13 years old. A few years afterwards, I’d be downloading 8-10 mixtapes a week, writing, studying, and sharpening my sword. In late high school, I built a studio space with some artists and friends-- I have fully transitioned into studio-rat ever since. I would end up living there til recently; becoming where I would record, mix & develop a hands on approach to my work.

Which era of music is your favorite?

Ah, I have a few. There was what felt like a resurgence of individuality & just plain artistry from 2011 - 2013. Introduced Kendrick, TDE’s camp, ASAP, Cole’s debut, Mac Millers ‘Macadelic, XV’s mixtape, Drakes ‘Take Care’. Artists around this time took raw talent, recognizing and crafting real records that you wouldn’t expect from rappers so dialled in on their wordplay. Best of both worlds. From my approach to songwriting & mixing techniques, these were my most pivotal years. 2011 is the year. I’d put everything on it. No question.

Another notable time would be around 2006-2008. Limewire & Mixtape Torrent had my curiosity peaking. From album leaks to getting a record nobody else had, it kept a lot of value in those songs. Up until then we had no access to underground music, we were only privy to the mainstream. So if I was a baby, my upbringing was Wayne’s mixtape run, Lupe’s tapes, and a whole lot more. I got lucky.

Have you ever thought of taking a stage name? If so, what would it be? 

Oh man, I’ve had some terrible little alias’ before sticking to my own. I couldn’t do it, my whole issue was finding something that represented me fully. I felt like my name was the only way to approach it wholeheartedly, at least for me.

It’s collab time: who are you making a song with?

Andre 3000. My mantra has always been to find balance between math & magic; being calculated & knowing when to get out of your own way. Andre’s calculated as anyone else but it’s way too natural. He takes on characters-- my favorites can conceptualize narratives, and that’s a true sign of a great mind/writer. I plan on creating different soundscapes each album, so I hope that when I find something for us to work on, we could take it there.

What do you like to do when you’re not making music?

Honestly, I’m sure you get this a lot, but music occupies a lot of my space. I definitely love a good film. I love my people I’m connected to, the relationships I get involved in. I enjoy working with my hands and being creative in that respect. Been thinking of diving into creative directing & trying my hand at curating some clothing.

Many artists have a dream venue. What’s yours?

I really prefer an intimate set. Something like House Of Blues or The Observatory where you’re just about eye-level. I’ve gotta be able to be there with you. Although I’m sure my opinion will change. Even once this thing takes off, I’ll be sure to take a B-side tour at some more intimate venues for the day ones.

Any future projects for fans to get excited about?

I have an album ready. A conceptual piece that’s as much my story as it is ours, as a generation. A piece I’ve lived for the last two years. My good friend Ryan Michaels produced the entirety of the project. I’ll keep the concept off the table for now, just know you’re in for an experience. First album out the gate, I know it’s bound to catch some people off guard.

My team & I are working on a collaborative mixtape series we’ll be releasing on our own platform. I wanted to bring a bunch of artists together & give our fans that exclusivity we spoke about earlier; something they get to keep for themselves. 

Creatively, the beauty is that we’re all fans of each other. We get to debate which songs get picked, who’s verse should replace who’s, etc. It’s a practice of humility & overall raising the bar for one another. As someone who works remotely, it’ll be a great experience seeing the community aspect of things.