This is the first of five conversations with rising Americana musicians by KAXE Music Director Kari Hedlund, recorded in Nashville at AmericanaFest. Tune in to New Music all week to hear them, plus the artists’ live AmericanaFest sets!
If you missed it on the air, visit our archives.
NASHVILLE — It can be hard to stay true to yourself when you’re also trying to make it as a musician.
For Americana singer Jess Williamson, that was on her mind when making her new album, Time Ain’t Accidental. Speaking to KAXE Music Director Kari Hedlund at this year’s AmericanaFest in Nashville, Tennessee, Williamson said, “I was reflecting on all through my 20s how hard I was working and how I was prioritizing the dream of making it in music.”
Prioritizing it over things like relationships, owning a dog, and having a comfortable place to live. Now the singer is at a place where she can be honest with what she wants. On “Hunter,” a single from the new album, she sings, “I’m a hunter for the real thing.”
She realized her wants did not fit in with the modern way of dating.
“You’re not supposed to be looking for a relationship and everyone just wants something casual,” Williamson said. “And I realized I actually don’t want something casual.”
The singer worked with producer Brad Cook on the record and brought the theme of accepting yourself into the recording booth.
“We did all the vocals in like three takes,” Williamson said. That approach was something new and helped her to recognize what she likes in her voice.
“My favorite voices are imperfect and they have character, and my voice is like that.”
For the complete conversation between Kari Hedlund and Jess Williamson, listen above.
