NHW SONGWRITER'S TOUR
JP WILLIAMS - INTERVIEW
How do you think you've grown since your first album with the NHW Songwriters Tour?
I've grown as a singer and a writer. Each member of the Tour challenges me to get better at my craft everyday.
With a name like No Hit Wonders, do you ever worry that you may jinx your luck and end up with no hits?
No, because we're comfortable never having any commercial hits and we'll be fine if we have tons of hits. We already get to write songs and make records. What could be better? This isn't about a destination, i.e. "Hit Songs" it's about the journey.
How would you describe your style of music for those who haven't heard you yet?
Hmm, I encompass a wide variety of influences, so it's hard to put a label no what I do. But if I had to make a comparison - you could put James Taylor, Garth Brooks, and Sheryl Crow in a blender (which would get really crowded) you'd get something that sounds a little like me.. without the blender sound. (Laughs!)
At what age did you begin singing?
I was 13 when I started taking voice lessons and taking it seriously.
What is next for you and the NHW Songwriter's Tour?
Keep playing, gigging, writing, and singing.
Do you have a favorite song of yours on the "Courageous" CD? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite song?
'Where I Come From" because it's a moving and wonderfully crafted song written by Joe West.
What kind of songs do you look for (or write) when you go to record albums?
Songs that fit my vocal style and songs that I can relate to and hopefully others as well.
Where do you find the ideas and inspirations when writing songs?
In life's ups and downs.
Who are some of the other artists & songwriters you have written with or for?
I've written for several Nashville publishing companies and I'm always looking to write with people that challenge me to be better.
One of our favorite songs of yours is: "Everyday Beautiful." How did this song come about?
Being blind, people have asked me - "how does the woman you're with know that you think she's beautiful?" The song was an effort to display how I express my feelings for that person. I wrote the song with Ronny Palmer, one of my favorite writers in Nashville.
Do you play any instruments? If so, what and do you have a favorite instrument to play (if you play more than one).
I play several instruments, but my favorite is acoustic guitar.
What goals do you feel you have accomplished with your career and what do you still hope to accomplish?
I would love to one day get a publishing or record deal that works for both sides.
What motivates you to keep striving in the music business?
The challenge to write great songs.
Who has been the greatest influence in your life? (music related or not)
God. Because He's been consistent in my life and has never given up on me.
If you could collaborate with anyone musically, who would it be and why?
Garth Brooks. Because the day I heard his song "The Dance" I knew that writing and playing music was what I wanted to do.
What do you like about touring and what do you dislike?
I like touring because everyday is different and I get to meet new people. But being a homebody I miss my couch and taking long naps. :-)
Do you have a favorite song to perform live?
"Tongue Tied" - It's on my live CD.
What is the most difficult aspect of the music industry in your opinion?
It's a hard business in general, but if I had to pick one thing it would be paying my cell phone bill :-)
What advice would you give to those who plan to get into the music business?
Always spend more time getting better on your craft than waiting for the phone to ring.
Is there anything you would like to say to all your fans and all our readers?
Hope to see you at a show very soon.
Songwriter's Spotlight: NHW Songwriter's Tour
