Acoustic Alchemical Artivist
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 vulnerability," which often manifests in the form of daring musical improvisation over looped arrangements and honest confessions to the audience.
"He’s great for any crowd and really knows how to make the atmosphere feel special. Dude absolutely rocks." — Max Ketcherside, Private Client
Part of WILBR's mission consists of "alchemical artivism," which he describes 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.
“...Will's music is both daring and defiant, but the positivity and passion remain the essence of his endeavors. He’s clearly an artist in search of honesty and engagement, qualities he came to appreciate during his ongoing journey of self-discovery.” — Lee Zimmerman, author, podcaster, writer and reviewer for Goldmine, American Songwriter, Living Blues and others
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.
"Catchy music with uplifting vibes and deep meanings. Having WILBR as a performer at Swamp Summit contributed wonderfully to the event's aesthetic!" — Aimee Bruce, 757 Create
As part of his purpose-driven mission, Will is currently wrapping up a 15-week DIY tour through the Eastern US, during which he has continued to release music. One track from his debut live EP, "Face Your Dread", was featured on Veer Magazine's Top 10 This Week playlist.
“...Will's EP, The Tiny Mic (Live), is a reflection of that passion and purpose, as well as a product of the honesty, humility and integrity he’s been pursuing since early on. While the songs seem simple, the messaging remains compatible with the music, sharing insights told from a deeply personal perspective. In the opinion of this particular critic, it foretells a promising and prolific future.” — Lee Zimmerman, author, podcaster, writer and reviewer for Goldmine, American Songwriter, Living Blues and others
WILBR's subsequent release "Little Yellow Hearts" is a protest song and personal reflection on empathy, which invites listeners to tap their foot as well as look inward. The song has also become a support vehicle for a Honduran mother and her daughter. To learn more, CLICK HERE.
