In the spring of 2001, Seattle singer/songwriter Wes Weddell captivated the region with his ambitions to chronicle the lives of contemporary Washington State residents in song. In sixty-five days cavorting around the state, the multi-instrumentalist [+]In the spring of 2001, Seattle singer/songwriter Wes Weddell captivated the region with his ambitions to chronicle the lives of contemporary Washington State residents in song. In sixty-five days cavorting around the state, the multi-instrumentalist produced nine regionally-themed songs based upon stories he encountered in towns everywhere from Mossyrock to Toppenish. The academic component of the University of Washington-sponsored "Project" also earned Wes the first Mary Gates Venture Fellowship and a sizable following from media sources across the state--not to mention comprising fifteen credits'-worth of coursework for the UW history graduate (then a junior).
The following December, the Pullman, Wash., native released a CD--his second solo--of these songs. Entitled "My Northwest Home," the disc continues to allow Wes to follow through on his promise to return the songs to the communities from which they originated, and to share the intertwining melodies and anecdotes inspired by his travels.
Wes belongs to a younger generation of folk musicians who work to incorporate elements of many well-established musical traditions into their own personal stylings. His particular approach offers a fresh take on the identity of American folk music by drawing from a multitude of musical disciplines, which provide a flexible backdrop for his clever and detailed lyrics. His poised musical delivery and celebrated storytelling ensure an entertaining and memorable experience for any listener.
Wes first appeared on the Seattle scene with an unannounced guest appearance at the 1999 Northwest Folklife Festival, and he has steadily increased his engagements across the region since--much to the delight of his growing audiences. His efforts have gained the attention and respect of the Seattle Folklore Society, Portland Folklore Society, Washington State History Museum, Folk Alliance, Victory Music, Seattle Times, Spokesman-Review, Bellingham Herald, and Northwest Public Radio among many others.
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