Interview: Wes Taylor
Songwriter and worship leader Wes Taylor, from San Antonio, Texas, just released his new song 'Never Wonder'. Louder Than The Music chatted with Wes to find out more about his life in music, the inspiration behind his new song, and his plans for the future.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
Of course! My name is Wes Taylor and I’m a husband, father of 3, and worship leader in San Antonio, TX. I grew up in the church, and my dad was our worship leader for years. At an early age I began leading songs for our youth group and writing/recording my own songs as well!
Tell us about your new single 'Never Wonder' and what the inspiration behind it was?
This song came about during a rough patch in my faith - which I’m still coming out of. I think a lot of Christians feel comfortable talking about their struggles in the past tense, but are less likely to be honest when they are in the middle of those struggles. Anyways, the phrase ‘never wonder’ kept popping in my head when I was writing this song because uncertainty and doubt had been so rampant in my faith. I wanted to write something I could work toward truly believing and leaning into during the hard times.
Do you have any plans to release more music in the near future?
Absolutely. I released a 6 song EP earlier this year, and realized that it’s way easier for me to release singles as I have time to write/produce them. With 3 young children and being in full-time ministry free time is hard to come by!
What message would you like people to take from your music?
I hope my music simply connects people with their Creator on a deeper level. I strive to be sincere and honest in my music, and hope that is refreshing for my listeners.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
My style is kind of all over the place! I grew up playing all sorts of styles from blues, southern rock, singer-songwriter, gospel, worship/Christian, etc. I think I have found my niche in the CCM/Worship genre, but I hope to retain elements of those other genres in my music.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
That’s a tough one, but I’ll stick with the CCM/Worship genre and say Benjamin Hastings from Hillsong. He has really redefined the typical ‘praise and worship’ song structure, and brings a fresh and unique sound to the genre. In particular, Highlands, So Will I, and Seasons have been incredibly inspirational for me in my writing.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
For me, being successful as an artist just means being true to the music I’m writing, and continuing to keep my mind set on the Lord. If what I’m writing and releasing blesses others and provides enough to continue to put out projects in the future I’d call that a success!
What is your favorite album of all time?
Another tough one...but if we are going all time I’d have to say In Rainbows by Radiohead. This seems to be constantly changing though!
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
Probably a song from the LOST soundtrack. Just to pretend like I was on the show for that short moment. I’m a huge fan!
What does the next year hold for you?
Well first and foremost, continuing to serve the church and trying to be the best dad and husband I can. As an artist, the next year hopefully involves a LOT more live shows and single releases. Stay tuned!
