Willie Watson

William Currie Watson, born on September 23, 1979, in Watkins Glen, New York, began his musical journey in Upstate New York, around the Ithaca area. Growing up, he was exposed to a diverse range of music, from contemporary artists like Michael Jackson and Nirvana to his father’s collection of The Rolling Stones and Neil Young. It was in high school that Watson started playing music with Ben Gould, influenced by the robust old-time fiddle music scene in Tompkins and Schuyler counties. This early immersion in traditional sounds, alongside a modern sensibility, led him to discover the Harry Smith Anthology of American Folk Music, which significantly shaped his understanding and appreciation of folk music.

Watson’s career took a significant turn when he co-founded the Old Crow Medicine Show. After meeting Ketch Secor and Chris “Critter” Fuqua, the group formed in the vibrant Ithaca old-time music scene. They busked across Canada before settling in Boone, North Carolina, where their traditional sound was discovered by Doc Watson, who invited them to MerleFest. This led to their introduction to Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings, propelling them into the Nashville music scene. Watson contributed to the band’s notable songs and recordings, performing with them for over a decade. After a successful tenure with Old Crow Medicine Show, he departed in 2011 to pursue a solo career, citing a desire for new artistic direction and to focus on family.

Since embarking on his solo path, Watson has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Folk Singer Vol. 1” (2014) and “Folksinger Vol. 2” (2017), both produced by David Rawlings. These albums showcased his deep connection to traditional folk music, featuring classic folk standards and obscure gems. His ability to perform these old songs with a fresh yet authentic voice earned him recognition, with Rolling Stone naming his debut solo album one of the “26 Albums of 2014 You Probably Didn’t But Really Should Hear.” In 2018, Watson made his film debut as “The Kid” in the Coen brothers’ “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” performing the Academy Award-nominated song “When A Cowboy Trades His Spurs For Wings.” In 2024, he released a self-titled album featuring his first collection of original compositions.