Today we’d like to introduce you to Zac Wilkerson.
Zac, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I had been writing songs in secret for over two decades and thought I’d never get to play them since I didn’t have any platform. A friend tricked me into participating in The Blue Light Live Songwriter Contest in Lubbock in Nov 2011 and to my surprise, I won. First prize was a solo set at Larry Joe Taylor’s Texas Music Fest in Stephenville in April 2012. After the festival, opportunities to play my original songs began coming in, and I quit my last “day job” as a worship pastor in September 2012. Now, as a full-time songwriter, performer, and producer, I’m free to pursue any creative endeavor I choose, from hosting a Songwriter Only Open Mic at Blue Light Dallas in Deep Ellum to producing other artists’ recordings and composing for TV soundtracks and film scores. My footprint grows each year and more opportunities come along all the time.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I would be remiss to say the road has been smooth, but I am thankful for how easy some things have come along. The greatest challenge for a “painfully independent” creator is the necessity to be not only a Jack-of-all-trades but also a Master of Many. Composing, promotion, production, touring, and funding are largely solo endeavors. Often, having to “compete” with artists that have large label and agency support becomes a seemly insurmountable obstacle but viewing each challenge as an opportunity for personal growth keeps things interesting. I have been fortunate to build a small but powerful team “where there’s a will, there’s a way” is our anthem.
What else should we know about your work and what you are currently focused on?
I am a singer, a songwriter, a guitarist, a performer, and a producer. I am known for powerful vocals, thoughtful, well-crafted lyrics, and an eclectic guitar sensibility. I am most proud of my songs being part of people’s life milestones, with my music being used in everything from weddings to funerals. What sets my music apart from others in my community is the wide range of influences and styles I draw from, including elements of Motown, Soul, Southern Rock, Traditional Country, Americana, and Blues.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
As an independent creator, I define success as being able to pursue creativity as a means to provide for my family and my team. We are always looking to grow our footprint into new markets and industries by providing music to enrich more people and their own projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: ZacWilkersonMusic.com
- Email: booking@zacwilkersonmusic.com
- Instagram: @ZacWilkersonMusic
- Facebook: Zac Wilkerson Music
- Twitter: @Zac_Wilkerson
Image Credit:
Tim Castleman, Todd Purifoy, Jordan Dean
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