EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Willie Lock Talks Upcoming Single ‘When We Were 17’
Fast-rising New York based country music singer/songwriter Willie Lock is quickly becoming one of the genre’s most revered voices and it’s easy to understand why; He’s a fantastic all-round musician that creates songs that really mean something and on October 14 he will share his latest offering ‘When We Were 17’.
Here we chat exclusively with Willie Lock to find out more about the forthcoming single:
You have a new single coming soon, how excited are you to share this one?
Yes! “When We Were 17” is out everywhere on October 14th. This record definitely captures the spirit of the changing seasons and I can’t wait to hear how it resonates with my fans and supporters.
Can you give us some insight into the writing and recording process for this one?
The creative process was special on this song. As I wrestled with thoughts of nostalgia about my younger years, I initially came up with a hook, melody, and an idea for the first verse. I then sent a voice note over to my best friend from high school, Greg Magee. Greg wrote a perfect second verse in about 15 minutes and I then brought all of those existing elements to one of my favorite songwriters and regular collaborators, Dan Emino. Dan really helped create a cohesive and clear story for the entire song. After the song was written, I linked in the studio with my producer, Dave Ricco, to finish creating the record. Once production was finished we had Grady Saxman (Luke Combs, Dustin Lynch) lay down drums from Nashville, with extra magic added in the mix from Jonathan Roach (Trey Lewis, Lakeview).
Where did you look for lyrical inspiration?
Most of my songs come from a very real and honest point of view and “When We Were 17” is no different. I actually did play for the team mentioned in the song (with co-writer Greg) and some of the names we used are the real names of our teammates. My other co-writer Dan has a natural ability to take my ideas and help craft them into lyrics that accentuate the story of the song. Hopefully, listeners will be able to relate to some of my real-life experiences while listening to this one.
What are you hoping listeners take away from the meaning of the song?
If you grew up spending time outdoors with your best friends, and making the most out of life, ‘When We Were 17’ is the song for you. The nostalgic imagery of Friday night football, friendship, and camaraderie is the perfect soundtrack for the changing leaves. I hope it encourages listeners to live life to the fullest and not take any moment for granted. Also, it is a great driving/road trip song so make sure to turn it up loud!
Do you have any set goals in mind for this release?
My previous two releases have ended up being my two biggest songs thus far, so I am definitely looking to build upon that success. Would love to be featured on a Spotify editorial playlist as well (make sure to hit that pre-save link)! Overall, I want to continue spreading my music and stories to as many people as possible. I am thankful for the opportunity to make music for a living, and these singles will be a part of a bigger album that is very close to completion.
Looking ahead, what else does 2022 hold for you?
Plenty of shows throughout the entire New York tri-state area, appearances on various TV shows including Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs Maisel, as well as opening for internationally acclaimed a cappella group, Straight No Chaser, are in store for 2022. As I mentioned in question 5, the album is only a few songs away, and it will mark the biggest release of my music career. Thanks again to Music and Tour News for the interview!
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