Singer-songwriter Philip Williams grew up surrounded by music at home as a child, but it was not until he was in his 40s that he began songwriting and performing. He worked as a bus driver and liquor and pharmaceutical sales representative for most of his career.
Inspiration struck when he first heard celebrated Canadian folk singer Stan Rogers on the radio. In 1981, Williams met Rogers at the Vancouver Folk Festival and that meeting changed the focus of his life.
He found himself a Grit Laskin guitar and learned the songs of his idol (Rogers) and Gordon Lightfoot and other Canadian musical icons. Then he began writing his own music.
Williams has produced two folk festivals on Savary Island and performed at Mission Folk Music Festival for the last 12 years. He has been a member of Powell River’s Chor Musica Men’s Choir, performing with the group internationally and at the International Choral Kathaumixw festival.
Williams released one CD of his original music and cover songs entitled All That Matters and is busy writing and recording a new album.
How and when did you get into music?
I started in my 40s, writing my own songs. My friend Paul Mills produced Stan Rogers and I got to meet Stan at Vancouver Folk Fest in 1981. This meeting galvanized my resolve to write and perform my music.
What does music mean to you?
Music is my life. I took jobs for a dental plan; folk music doesn’t pay much. But music and my songwriting friends are my passion.
Do you perform solo or with others?
I’ve sang in choirs, but I play solo a lot. I also perform with my friends. I’ve played with an amazing violinist, Jennie Bice, and an extremely talented young man, Ryan Schmeister. He is a guitar wizard.
Where can people hear your music?
I currently sing every Friday with Ryan at the Boardwalk Restaurant in Lund from 5 to 8 or 9 pm.
What are you working on now?
I have one CD, All That Matters, and am on the cusp of completing my next CD. Now that I’m 74, I’m getting more serious about my music. Why not?
