Chip Wilson

Biography

Chip Wilson is an avant-garde musician based in New Orleans, whose career has been shaped by over two decades immersed in the city's vibrant musical culture[1]. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of southern blues, Mardi Gras Indian recordings, and the rich traditions of New Orleans, Wilson developed a unique approach to music that blends historical influences with experimental techniques. His early years in the city exposed him to a wide spectrum of genres, from 1920s jazz to the local street music, fostering a deep appreciation for both the roots and the evolution of New Orleans' musical landscape.

Wilson's career took a significant turn with the launch of his ArtistShare project, NOLA, which allowed fans to participate directly in his creative process and experience his journey firsthand[1]. Recording at The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, he collaborated with local musicians and friends, capturing the essence of New Orleans in his avant-garde compositions. His work is characterized by a willingness to reinterpret traditional forms, drawing on the city's legacy while pushing boundaries through improvisation and unconventional structures.

Although not widely recognized in mainstream circles, Wilson's legacy lies in his commitment to community engagement and his role in preserving and reimagining New Orleans music. By sharing exclusive performances, sketches, and stories, he has contributed to the ongoing dialogue about the city's musical identity, inspiring both collaborators and listeners to explore new possibilities within the avant-garde genre.

Fun Facts

• Chip Wilson's NOLA project allowed fans to collaborate directly with him, including co-writing songs and sharing in the creative process[1].
• He spent over twenty years living in New Orleans, deeply absorbing the city's diverse musical influences[1].
• Wilson's recordings often feature sketches and stories, providing a multimedia experience beyond just music[1].
• His work at The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music connects him to one of New Orleans' most respected musical institutions[1].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Local New Orleans musicians - Wilson cites the influence of New Orleans' musical community, including exposure to Mardi Gras Indian recordings and southern blues traditions. (Interpretations of 1920s jazz and 1970s Mardi Gras Indian music) [1990s–present]

Key Collaborators

• Friends from New Orleans music scene - Collaborated in recording sessions at The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music as part of the NOLA project. (NOLA ArtistShare project recordings) [2016]

Artists Influenced

• Participants in ArtistShare NOLA project - Fans and aspiring musicians involved in collaborative songwriting and exclusive performances. (Co-written songs and shared experiences from NOLA project) [2016]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Slip Away (One Note At A Time (Official Soundtrack))
2. Why Can't I See Tomorrow? - feat. Tanya Boutté & Chip Wilson (Nine Lives - a Musical Story of New Orleans (The Complete Set))
3. Walking on Glass - feat. Tanya Boutté, John Rankin & Chip Wilson (Nine Lives - a Musical Story of New Orleans (The Complete Set))
4. On the Other Side (Stories and Occasional Lies)
5. Quarter to Four (Stories and Occasional Lies)
6. Longtime Lover (Stories and Occasional Lies)
7. Gloryland (Stories and Occasional Lies)
8. Neighborhood of Broken Hearts (Stories and Occasional Lies)
9. Play a Little Blues (Stories and Occasional Lies)
10. Awake for Days (Stories and Occasional Lies)

External Links

• Spotify