From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the digital stage, 22-year-old Will Linley is not just a musician; he’s a storyteller crafting his dreams. Singing with his three brothers, and his mom and studying classical singing in high school, Will cannot imagine a time without music in his life. While a music career has long been an aspiring dream, his passion for songwriting has been present since childhood, ignited by a deep yearning for adventure. In 2020, he shared one of his original songs online for the first time, and from that moment onward, his talent shone through. By honestly expressing the thoughts that occupy his mind in his lyrics, he swiftly captivates the hearts of listeners.
Photo Credit: Christie Reine
Commencing his melodic journey on TikTok, Will treats his followers to a diverse array of musical content. The spark for his debut single, ‘miss me (when you’re gone)’, ignited after teasing a preview on TikTok, which gathered momentum. Inspired by a real-life experience, the song became an emotionally charged anthem that swiftly skyrocketed to an instant hit after its release.
Giving a glimpse of his artistic philosophy, Will shares that the common South African phrase “We’re stronger together” is something he wants to bring through in his music. This emphasis on unity not only reflects his roots, but also serves as a central theme in Will’s musical narrative. During an interview, Will shares his excitement about showcasing the essence of his homeland in his art, sharing, “It’s thrilling to have the place I call home reflected in my creative expressions.” His commitment to bringing the spirit of togetherness into his art is clear, creating a connection between his music and the shared values of his community.
Gratitude is a cornerstone in Will’s journey, seamlessly integrated into his interaction both on and off stage. In every performance and conversation, he seizes the opportunity to express his appreciation to his friends, whom he views as an extension of his family. This recurring theme of gratitude infuses Will’s narrative with a genuine and heartfelt layer, highlighting the authentic bond he shares with his fans.
As Will approaches the end of his successful ‘The Magic Tour’ across Europe, named after his November 2023 EP ‘Magic’, he takes a moment on Instagram to share his gratitude. Earlier, he opened up about his aspiration to be more vulnerable and honest than ever before. Expressing his disbelief with each music release, he thanks his fans, calling them the best family he could ask for. Packing these sentiments into his suitcase, he prepared for the tour, equipped with a setlist featuring fan favourites.
During his performances, Will transcends the stage, offering a memorable experience for his audience. From sharing unreleased songs to pouring his heart into ballads like ‘On Paper,’ engaging the crowd in an a capella cover of ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen,’ and showcasing his fantastic dance moves, interactive spirit, and outstanding vocals, Will creates a memorable show that will undoubtedly stay in the memories of those who get to experience it.
Keeping the positive momentum alive after a rollercoaster of back-to-back successes, there’s hardly any time for the pop wunderkind to unwind following his tour. Will is gearing up for a series of shows in the US, supporting Em Beihold on her ‘Maybe Life Is Good’ Tour. His music, stirring vivid cinematographic imagery resembling a silver screen experience, invites listeners to go on an intimate journey with a sincere dive into his emotional compass. One can only imagine that having Will Linley as the opening act of your concert will set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Written by: Ilse Muis
Edited by: Nèri Cliteur
