Paul Louis Villani isn’t politically motivated, does not proclaim to have any answers, nor pretend to know how to fix any of what is going wrong, however he’s got feelings and perceptions, which he turns into music. Lately they’ve been telling him that something feels off, so he’s decided to share those feelings, ‘Who Do You Belong to Know? (Great Southern Land)’ is the result of that, and it gave us some questions for him to answer. Get to know Paul Louis Villani below.
Hi! Could you introduce yourself, your genre, and your musical influences?
“I’m Paul Louis Villani, a Melbourne-based songwriter, recording artist, producer, guitarist, lyricist, photographer, husband, father, and professional over-analyser. Music genre-wise, I’ve long since given up trying to define or confine myself because every time I do, I write something that contradicts it. My musical influences range from David Bowie to Slayer, Mauro Guiliani to Jeff Buckley and film scores, just to name a few.”
What inspired you to start making music and what inspires you to keep going?
“Watching black and white TV in the seventies and seeing my first music videos with Jimi Hendrix, KISS and The Beatles. As a kid I was fascinated by how a collection of sounds could completely change the way you felt but also, I was extremely attracted to seeing Jimi Handrix set his Fender Stratocaster alight whilst it was still plugged in!!These days I keep going because I honestly don’t know how not to. Writing lyrics and music helps me process life, and everything in between. It’s cheaper than therapy and occasionally sounds better.”
Where do you, in general, get inspiration for your music and songwriting?
“Everywhere. Conversations, relationships, headlines, experiences, work, frustrations, mistakes, regrets, victories, and the occasional existential crisis. Most songs begin with a feeling rather than any kind of plan. If something keeps doing the rounds in my head long enough, it usually ends up becoming a song.”
Who would you like to work with in the near future and where would you like to perform in the next three years?
“Absolutely no one. June 2021 was the end of (in-person) studio and live collaboration for me. Humans have a beautiful way of making you feel the highest of highs and to the more extreme end, the lowest of lows and I’m honestly happy to keep all of that at an arm’s length as I now truly enjoy the freedom of creating completely alone.”
Which musical achievements are you most proud of?
“I have some wonderful memories created by travelling with bands. Supporting some amazing musicians and bands. Most importantly though is the fact that I’m still at it! After decades of life, family responsibilities, mortgages, work, setbacks, and all the things that pull people away from creativity, I’m still writing and releasing music. Beyond that, hearing my songs played on radio stations around the world and connecting with listeners I’ve never met is something I never take for granted.”
What do you hope to achieve by releasing music with followers old and new?
“Maybe just a small emotional connection. That’s really it. I don’t expect everyone to love every song because I don’t write the same song repeatedly. Some tracks are dark, some are experimental, some are angry, some are reflective. If a listener finds something that resonates with their own experiences or emotions, then the song has done its job.”
What are your plans for the new year and what are some of your goals and dreams?
“To keep creating. I’ve learned that happiness for me isn’t found at some metaphorical finish line. It’s found in the process. I want to continue releasing music, experimenting with ideas, pushing myself creatively, and seeing where the songs lead. Beyond that, I’d love to reach more listeners and continue building a catalogue that reflects who I really am as a composer.”
Aside from music, what are some of your hobbies and interests? We’d love to know more about you as a person!
“I’m an internationally exhibited photographer, a junior cricket coach, Vice-President of the East Keilor Cricket Club, an emergency compliance professional, and someone who probably spends far too much time philosophising about life. I love visual art, sci-fi movies or mini-series and reading or listening to podcasts about psychology and cryptocurrency. I love spending time with my amazing family. At the end of the day, all the songs, photos, and creative projects in the world mean very little if you don’t have people to share life with.”
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