Jess Williamson is a talented American singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles, whose musical journey has been marked by creativity and collaboration. She began her career while studying at the University of Texas at Austin, where she honed her craft and developed her unique sound. In 2011, she released her debut EP, “Medicine Wheel/Death Songs,” which showcased her lyrical depth and musical versatility, setting the stage for her future endeavors.
Williamson’s professional trajectory took a significant leap with the establishment of her own imprint, Brutal Honest. Through this platform, she released her first two studio albums, “Native State” in 2014 and “Heart Song” in 2016. Both albums received acclaim for their introspective songwriting and rich melodies, solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the indie music scene. Her move to Los Angeles marked a new chapter, leading to the release of her third album, “Cosmic Wink,” in 2018 under the label Mexican Summer, further expanding her artistic reach.
In 2020, Williamson released her fourth studio album, “Sorceress,” which was met with critical praise, earning a positive score on Metacritic. The album’s lead single, “Wind on Tin,” highlighted her ability to blend folk and pop influences seamlessly. Additionally, her collaboration with Hand Habits on the single “Pictures of Flowers” was recognized by NPR as one of the standout songs of the year, showcasing her collaborative spirit and musical innovation.
Continuing her artistic evolution, Williamson formed the duo Plains with Katie Crutchfield of Waxahatchee, releasing their debut album, “I Walked with You a Ways,” in October 2022. This collaboration further exemplifies her commitment to exploring new musical landscapes. Most recently, in 2023, she released her fifth album, “Time Ain’t Accidental,” which continues to demonstrate her growth as an artist and her dedication to crafting meaningful music.