BY MIA JACKSON
Avery Wilson (born July 18, 1995) is an American singer-songwriter, dancer, and the youngest of three children. Wilson started singing at the age of 8 years old, then he became a YouTube sensation in his teen years. Life changed quickly for the product from Connecticut.
Wilson started his career in 2012 as a contestant on season 3 of The Voice. Wilson definitely was more than a shooting star. Prior to The Voice, Wilson had regional hit songs playing in rotation for the Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts markets. In 2015, he released “If I Have To”, the first single from his debut album which he also performed as a non-competitor on season 8 of The Voice when he was 16 years old.
He performed on Team Cee Lo Green and made it to the knockouts. Wilson was a favorite to win the competition, but was eliminated on October 29, 2012 after his performance of Yeah 3x. Avery’s elimination was called a major upset by numerous publications and he later signed with Clive Davis, the legendary RCA Records executive.
Today, six years later, Avery is 23 years old and back with new music along with a new direction. I had the opportunity to sit down with him and talk about the journey back and many other things.
Mia Jackson: How did it feel being on the hit TV show on NBC: The Voice?
Avery Wilson: Being on The Voice was an amazing whirlwind of an experience. I had the opportunity to share my gift with the world, not to mention compete with other talented artists. My main intent was to allow people to be able to hear my voice and grow as a music artist. Being on a television show can change and teach you many things about life, self, and your career goals.
MJ: Who and what inspires you musically and personally?
AW: I would say, just in a nutshell, my family. They have been in my corner since day one. My family is the driving force in my life and I’m forever grateful for them. Musically, people like Tevin Campbell, Jodeci, After 7, and the legendary Michael Jackson inspired me. I’m a real lover of R&B music and am into people that can really sang their hearts out. All these artists have produced amazing moments in music that still touch people today.
MJ: Due to your music contract did you feel like your contract kept you in a cap place in regards to projects and releasing music?
AW: That’s a really good question. Maybe doing products. For me personally, I did record music but the situation never transitioned into a release during that time. My journey was a good and bad process; I respect the process it taught me about people, the experience changed my life. A deal that capped me into a box was the worst thing I could vie ever imagined. I always view experiences are in place to teach you, as an music artist which I had to learn and comprehend who I was, and there are still people who will try to change you but it is up to yourself to stand firm on who you are and your direction.
MJ: On a lighter note, How did it feel to work with rapper, songwriter, and actor KYLE on his single “open doors” — can you share insight on the music process?
AW: Kyle and I have been cool for some time, He reached out to me via twitter and asked me if i wanted to get on the new record, told me that moment “I already have studio session in place, I went to the session we each played our music, lastly he played me — open doors and the fit was right for me. It was quick session i laid the part down in 30 mins and it was magic.
MJ: If you had to choose three music artists to collaborate with, who would they be and why?
AW: I would have to say the queen Beyoncé. No one can do what she does at all on any level. She’s a triple threat and beautiful vocalist.
Secondly, I would have to say Kendrick Lamar. The level of content he brings to the world is captivating and sending a message on conscious music.
Third and Fourth, Rihanna and Chris Brown. I know you only said three but i think the level of artistry has to be monumental and all the artist i mention brings that each and every time.
MJ: What advice do you have for people who want to pursue a career in music?
AW: I would have to say, be true to self and do your research. I would say lastly you have to put in hard work and sweat into your craft. Most importantly, stand firm and by what makes you special.
MJ: Wrapping up….What’s next since you’re officially a free agent? You ready for this rise and grind?
AW: It’s always been rise and grind. But I want to create more music and go on tour. I am releasing a new EP in October, and that will allow my fans to know about me on a more personal level.