William Prince – “All I Know”

SXSW 2023 – OEB Score 8, Popularity Index 9

Pairs well with…Gordon Lightfoot, Harry Nilsson, Waylon Jennings

William Prince’s music evokes the softer folk and country singer songwriters of the 70’s. He has deep, old soul voice filled with empathy and earned wisdom which match his storyteller songs and reflective ballads, with a lift from soft rock and gospel instrumentation. His second album, Reliever, was released in 2020. Stand out tracks on this album include “The Spark,” “Leave it by the Sea,” and “Lighthouse.” “Great Wide Open,” is also outstanding, a somber farewell to his father. Reliever also includes two pretty duets with Serena Ryder. Overall, its slow and patient, definitely not music for a crowded day party at SXSW so try to find a quieter venue for this artist. 

Listeners may already be familiar with Prince from his song “All I Know” which was featured on the TV show “Yellowstone.” Prince highlights the essential struggle of a working class love: “We pay the dues, but they watch the clock,” but concludes hopefully that “one day this will all pay off.” Others might remember his swooning “Breathless” which received some radio play a few years ago.  

Prince also released a second album in 2020, the country gospel infused “Gospel First Nation.” Prince is a member of Peguis First Nation. In this album, he explores the complicated relationship between Christianity and Indigenous people in Canada. The album’s title song talks about the beauty of Fisher Bay, Manitoba, where he grew up. (David Zlotnick)