WILBR

Will Brooks, a.k.a. WILBR, has lived a loreful life, which he sometimes attempts to convey through writing. At other times, his writing simply communicates lessons learned through years of "hard-headedness", attempting to remain grounded in realism. Like most things, Will considers himself and WILBR works in progress.

WILBR’s music moves between intimate folk sounds and driving “folkgrass” rhythms, a result of blending softer influences with those of guitar heroes like Jerry Garcia and Billy Strings. In life and on stage, Will practices "radical self-acceptance," which often manifests in the form of daring musical improvisation over looped arrangements and honest confessions to the audience.

Part of WILBR's mission consists of "acoustic alchemy", described as the transmutation of emotional lead into gold at the intersection of art and activism. Will has found deep healing through music--as a listener and a creator, and his musical journey has been a supportive force in embracing growth and self-discovery. A musical journey was not always the clear choice for him, though.

With only a few years of childhood experience, Will picked up the guitar again during the pandemic, and playing music became an escape from reality and himself. For years, Will wrestled with symptoms of personality disorders and substance use disorder. Learning to practice mindfulness and “radical self-acceptance” helped him develop as a human and a musician. Along the way, writing songs became a way for Will to process life and find balance, reinforcing particular beliefs and perspectives while challenging old ways of thinking and being.

As part of his purpose-driven mission, Will is currently wrapping up a 15-week DIY tour through the Eastern US, with plans to record and release of a full-length studio album after securing funding. Prospective patrons are invited to contribute at www.wilbrmusic.com/support. To learn more, please reach out via the contact page.