"I think as musicians we have the benefit of being outside observers of what's going on out there and can offer our commentary through our art. We can say things to get our point across more elegantly if we so choose. It can also be good therapy for us."

Tyler Wilson: Old Friends, Authentic Music

Rock, funk, R&B, and Roots music from a unique and talented performer. Tyler Wilson, is a musician from Brantford, Ontario. Wilson has been playing the guitar since he was just six years old and has been performing live music in Brantford and the surrounding area since 2003 both as a solo artist and member of various bands. Tyler says: "Categorizing myself into a certain genre isn't something I can ever definitively achieve. I try to be a soulful songwriter, emphasize strong rhythm and groove, and keep things interesting on the guitar. I'm a guitar player first, I think. My creativity comes from personal experience, I think. If I can't relate to it, I can't write about it. I have to be authentic. What you're getting is me. I can't consciously stand on a stage and speak in a fake country accent or dress in a sparkly sequent jacket. I'm a working-class dude from Southern Ontario, so that's what you'll be getting!"

(Photo: Brantford, Ontario-based Tyler Wilson, is a unique and talented performer)

Wilson used to go see a lot of local musicians and bands play in his younger days and he says that’s probably the biggest reason he is still plugging away today. If you have seen Wilson live or listened to some of his videos on Facebook, it’s clear he is a talented guitar player and vocalist. Tyler produced and released his new own original 4-songs EP “Old Friends” in January 2024.

Interview by Michael Limnios                    Special Thanks: Sarah French Publicity

How has the Blues and Rock Counterculture influenced your views of the world and the journeys you’ve taken?

I think as musicians we have the benefit of being outside observers of what's going on out there and can offer our commentary through our art. We can say things to get our point across more elegantly if we so choose. It can also be good therapy for us.

How do you describe your sound and songbook? What characterizes your music philosophy? Where does your creative drive come from?

This is my most feared question! Categorizing myself into a certain genre isn't something I can ever definitively achieve. I try to be a soulful songwriter, emphasize strong rhythm and groove, and keep things interesting on the guitar. I'm a guitar player first, I think. My creativity comes from personal experience, I think. If I can't relate to it, I can't write about it. I have to be authentic. What you're getting is me. I can't consciously stand on a stage and speak in a fake country accent or dress in a sparkly sequent jacket. I'm a working-class dude from Southern Ontario, so that's what you'll be getting!

What do you miss most nowadays from the music of the past? What are your hopes and fears for the future of?

I think what I miss most about music from the past is that there was more support for talented musicians and songwriters and less emphasis on who has the most social media followers, and the prettiest photos. My fear is that this trend will continue, and musicians will be forced to worry more about playing dress up than practicing their craft. 

Are there any memories from gigs, jams, open acts and studio sessions which you’d like to share with us?

I've had a handful of great memories from big shows, studio sessions, or jams with other artists that will stay with me forever. I've opened for a few notable artists like The Trews, Theory of a Deadman, and Beanie Man, but I think what makes me who I am is the work ethic I have. I think it's important to put your time in, whether it be playing live, practicing at home, or creating, wherever that may happen for you. My "thing" will always be that I work hard and always put my time in, as they say. I'm always looking at what's next and trying not to bask for too long in the glory of the notable moments.

(Photo: Tyler Wilson, a unique and talented performer)

What is the impact of music on the socio-cultural implications? How do you want the music to affect people?

I think musicians and artists have always been looked towards for their commentary on social or cultural happenings. Sometimes to an unfair degree. We're living in a world where EVERYTHING has become politicized and subsequently part of our identities. I would never want to become a poster-child for one particular group. I try to stay as far away from politics as humanly possible when it relates to my art. Believe me, I do have beliefs that I feel strongly about, but I don't want to be placed into a category by others that doesn't represent me as a whole because of one little comment or line in a song. In my opinion, if you follow one particular group's guidelines fully and unquestionably, no matter what side you're on, you're acting like a "sheep" as much as I hate that overused term. Form your own opinions before you look up how your fearless leader feels about the subject.

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned from your experience in the music paths?

I think there are some strong fundamental lessons you can learn from being involved in the music industry. You have to love what you do, being the first and most important lesson. VERY few people in the industry are making financial gains in the industry, and even fewer of them are the artists. We're almost the "marks" these days, to borrow a term from pro wrestling. If you don't love creating music and playing for people on a very basic and intrinsic level, you will ultimately be let down by the setbacks of the industry.

Do you think there is an audience for Blues/Rock music in its current state? or at least a potential for young people to become future audiences and fans?

I think there is still an audience in 2024 for blues/rock music. I feel like the mediums to share our art have changed. We need to embrace things like YouTube, TikTok etc. instead of fearing them or dismissing them, because they are here to stay, and they really are an excellent and inexpensive tool to get your stuff out there if you use them properly. Simply playing the local bars isn't the way to get noticed anymore, and more venues are sadly closing their doors these days. If you're in music for the right reasons and you have great art to share, the cream will rise to the top. At least I hope so!

Tyler Wilson - Home

(Photo: Tyler Wilson)