Willie Shaw
Photo Credit: Ford Fairchild
California-born and Nashville-based, Willie Shaw took his sweet time finding his way to music. First a college baseball player, then a NASA employee, then a member of a financial planning firm, Shaw was hired to song-write after playing at a random bar on a whim in Nashville. Now, there’s no turning back for the rising star. Shaw writes a new song almost every day and brings his intricate and honest lyrics to life with tender vocals. From the acoustic soul of “Sunday Call” to the more pop-oriented “Needed Somebody,” the up and coming artist never lacks talent nor charisma, both of which practically pour out of his work. We recently spoke with Shaw about to whom he owes his biggest thanks, how he spends time out of the studio, and more!
How did you start making music?
I started making music as a release from athletics. I played sports my whole life and a few of my teachers encouraged me to begin writing. I then stole my moms guitar from her room and began to write lyrics over “songs” (I could barely play anything). Once I realized girls like guys with guitars, I kinda became obsessed. I started making demos with some friends and held on to them. Once I got to college, I released them on SoundCloud and the athletic department at my school started downloading them like crazy. I then learned that I loved sharing music.
What do you like to do when you’re not in the studio?
I love to cook. It has become quite a serious endeavor for me that has been even more of an obsession due to the pandemic. I also still play a lot of sports. Most days you can find me playing basketball at the downtown Ymca.
What was the last song you listened to?
Swell- “Sorry” (feat. Shiloh). I listen to a ton of chill hop, trance hop, etc to get myself out of the writers bubble.
Where is your go-to location when it’s time to write?
Lately, it’s been my bedroom cause of Covid. But, I love writers trips. I’ve done a few: Livingston, Montana, Dillon, Colorado, Corona Del Mar, CA
I’m hoping to do Sedona next but we will see. Typically on those trips it evokes something inside that you know is there but you just can’t quite get it out. It’s like looking for a spatula when you’re in the living room and then you go somewhere else and you’re like holy cow, this is a kitchen and what do you know it has a spatula!! (Sry for the weird analogy- welcome to my brain)
Who’s your partner in a dream collab?
I think at the moment that would be JKash. I’ve listened to a lot of stuff he has worked on lately and it is entertaining to listen to.
Who do you owe your biggest thanks to?
My parents. My parents applauded and encouraged me when I said I wanted to leave the real world to chase a dream. Their support is incredible. Second is Jeff Greg at CAA. He is a lifer at the company which is the biggest agency in the world and he routinely introduces me to people as someone he would bet his entire career on which is an unbelievable statement when you hear it in person.
Any upcoming projects for fans to look forward to?
Oh yeah! We’ve got two more songs coming out this summer which Robopop produced. They are freaking awesome and I can’t wait for their releases.
