Nathaniel Willemse Interview

The new star of soul.Debut single "Vertigo" available exclusively on iTunes January 22.

Rising star Nathaniel Willemse is set to launch his debut single "Vertigo" in January 2008 and it's setting the stage for a sweet, soul kind of summer.

Nathaniel made "Vertigo" his own when he performed his laid-back soul version of the U2 hit on Australian Idol 2006, blowing audiences and judges away with his extraordinary vocal talent and exceptional good looks.

Far from being idle since his national television appearance, South African-born Nathaniel has spent the past 18 months honing his live performances and collaborating with some of this country's finest young songwriters, as diverse as Gary Pinto, TZU's Pip Norman and Mandy Kane.

In addition to regular performances with his acoustic duo, he recently debuted his full band to an outstanding response, and has made guest appearances at several popular clubs, including Watermark and Baraki Bar, plus Melbourne's iconic Eureka Tower, where he headlined the exclusive New Year's Eve party on two levels, performing his acoustic originals on one floor, and club classics in the DJ room.

Arguably destined to be recognised as one of Australia's great contemporary voices Nathaniel's live shows make girls swoon and their boyfriends want to buy him a drink, an extremely rare quality.

Nathaniel has the reach and likeability of talent such as John Farnham and Justin Timberlake and is going to fill a void in the Australian market that's currently there for the taking.

"VERTIGO", the debut single by Nathaniel Willemse also features two original B-side tracks, each co-written by Nathaniel. The accompanying music video, shot at Melbourne's iconic Eureka Tower, is also available as a download.

Interview with Nathaniel Willemse

1. How does it feel to hear your song played on the airwaves?
I feel like a little kid eating candy. Honestly, it's been one of my goals and ambitions and to see it come true is awesome.

2. Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?
To an extent. I knew it's a risky industry with it's pros and cons but having faith and positivity, has taken me a long way.

3. Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?
Yes I do. Also, it's great to collaborate with talented songwriters from time to time. My inspiration would have to be the emotions I've experienced through life's events and expressing those feelings through music.

4. What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?
Far too many to mention, but from the top of my head it would definitely have to be some Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Donny Hathaway, Bill Withers etc.

5. What's next? Tour/Album/Single?
All of the above!!! lol...the next big thing for me is my digital single release, exclusively on iTunes on Jan 22, then on general digital release from January 28. My music video, which was shot at the amazing Eureka Tower in Melbourne, is also going to be available as a download. I can't wait for the album and tour!! I'm currently writing more material for the album, which will come out later this year.

6. Was there a moment you contemplated throwing in the towel?
Whenever I allow doubt to enter my mind, something amazing happens to let me know I'm on the right path. It's a very hard slog, and not always rewarding. Thankfully, I have my family and friends encouraging me all the way.

7. Do you prefer performing live or recording?
Without a doubt the answer would have to be performing LIVE! There's nothing like the feeling of performing to an appreciative audience.

8. What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?
My passion for music, which started with my involvement in the church choirs.

9. What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?
Patience. I've certainly come to learn that there are no shortcuts in anything worthwhile.

10. What's a typical day like?
Training physically and vocally. Songwriting and Recording. A typical night would involve spending time with family and friends or heading into town and having a good time.

11. What has been your favorite part of becoming a music artist?
The journey. Figuring out who you are. Meeting amazing people who have inspired me, and growing musically.

12. If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?
Stevie Wonder.

14. Do you have a website fans can visit?
We're in the process of setting up my own website, but in the meantime, all you need to know is at www.myspace.com/nathanielwillemse

15. Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy & enjoyable life?
Laughter, hope, faith, fun and passion

16. What message would you like to say to your fans?
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my music with you.

60 Second Quiz

Full Name: Nathaniel
Nickname(s): Nat
Star Sign: Cancer
Music Talent: Singing, songwriting
Favorite Food: Candy
Favorite Film: Zoolander
Favorite Actor: Will Farrell
Pet: None
Describe yourself in 3 words: Humble, Fun, Passionate
Best Feature: Eyes?
Worst Feature: Toes?
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: Nelson Mandela
Hobbies/Interests: Basketball, Gym, Rugby
First Job: Paper delivery boy
Are you a Pub, Bar or Club kind: All of the above
What Can You Never Leave Home Without: My Laptop
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning: Food