"Life is constant change and you gotta learn to roll with it and constantly reinvent yourself."

Danny Lynn Wilson: Peace of Mind

After years of traveling along life’s dusty roads, Danny Lynn Wilson has emerged sharing his “Peace of Mind” (2019) - a personal collection of Original Roots recordings expressing his profound inner experiences. Polished with the persistent help of his band and the grinding force of time, these songs received a new breathe when Danny was introduced to Grammy-nominated producer/multi-instrumentalist Dave Gross. The addition of the subtle nuances of Dave’s skill transcend the music to a higher dimension. Guided by the natural ebb and flow of the universe they freely explore themes such as love, longing and kindness through the blues while challenging the listening to become a better person. Throughout all the ups and downs, Danny has discovered the power in the intimate connection of the universal language that is music. His honest approach to song writing encourages all that the everyday struggle is worth the experience garnered as we travel through life. By maintaining the belief that he is forever a beginner, child-like insight comes humming effortlessly over his humble voice on tunes such as “Long Way Home”, “Love Only You” and “Peace of Mind.” Above all, this album portrays a majestic triumph over darkness, convincing us to look for the positive despite what life throws in our direction.

If you have peace of mind, you can find happiness under the most difficult circumstances. In 2003, Danny recorded a Bluegrass/Dixieland album entitled “Adventures of the Rooftop Jammers.”  Touring for the project was put on hold due to life’s other plans but the album features such memorable songs as Skin Deep and Sad Song Life. Primal Blues was released in 1997 and garnered recognition from “CMJ” College Music Journal as it was awarded ‘Best Independent Release.”  On “Lookin’ Up” which was released in 1994, Danny experimented by incorporating horns to give the album a more traditional big band swing.  Musician’s Magazine recognized the effort by awarding him as being one of the “Best 100 Unsigned Bands.” Danny Lynn Wilson recorded his first album, “Lovers and Fools” in 1992 based on traditional Chicago Blues.  Tracks from this received airplay on WBFO and other radio stations in the WNY area.

Interview by Michael Limnios

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

It’s brought me comfort, pain and joy. Took me places I would never have had a chance to go. I’ve had the honor of entertaining people and commune in the celebration of music. For me it doesn’t get a whole lot better than that!

How do you describe your songbook and sound? Where does your creative drive come from?

I look at my songs as vehicles for me to process my feelings and events in my life and the world around me.

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

The session & production of Peace Of Mind. It was a magical journey that I’m so ready to take again.

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

How little exposure the most talented musicians receive. Simply because they play In underexposed and misunderstood genres such as jazz, Bluegrass or classical.

I love acoustic music and live performances. That seems to be getting better and more accessible all the time.

"It’s brought me comfort, pain and joy. Took me places I would never have had a chance to go. I’ve had the honor of entertaining people and commune in the celebration of music. For me it doesn’t get a whole lot better than that!"

If you could change one thing in the musical world and it would become a reality, what would that be?

Support for young artists so the focus of energy can go to mastering the craft.

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned after years of traveling along life’s dusty roads?

You gotta be a good camper. Very seldom are situations ideal. You need to make the best of what the situation offers you.

What is the impact of Blues and Roots music to the racial, political, and socio-cultural implications?

We all feel the same in our hearts and music is the common bond.

Let’s take a trip with a time machine, so where and why would you really want to go for a whole day?

I would love to see Louis Armstrong in New Orleans. Why? Because he’s Louis Armstrong!

a)”Peace of Mind” is.... b)”Happiness” is.... c)What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?

A) Doing your best and knowing what’s in your control and what’s out of your control.

B) Family, friends, writing, playing, recording, traveling & a full house!

C) Life is constant change and you gotta learn to roll with it and constantly reinvent yourself.

Danny Lynn Wilson - Home