Willie Smith

Bill “Willie” Smith is a lifelong fan of classic country, Southern rock, country blues, and traditional blues — and a lifelong South Chicago resident. Though new to the singer-songwriter scene, he’s already taken the stage at the Chicago Ridge Festival (2018), the Crestwood October Festival (2019), and Legends of Songwriting in Nashville (2022 & 2023). Willie has been a member of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, ASCAP, and BMI since 2012.

“If it’s worth sharing what you see, feel, or believe in, write it down. If it moves you, it will move someone else.”

His songwriting heroes are Merle Haggard, Toby Keith, Harlan Howard, Dean Dillon, Dolly Parton, and Erin Eldridge; his favorite performers include Garth Brooks, Toby Keith, Hank Williams Jr., Travis Tritt, Smiley Tillman, and Buddy Guy.

“Most people who met me 15 years ago are completely shocked when they see me playing music. I’ve met so many amazing people on my musical journey — I owe the start to Kurt Bonomo at Player’s Guitar Shop, who encourages me to be more creative every day. Thank you, buddy, and Joe LeDuc, for having the passion and vision to produce and promote my music.”

Off stage, Willie has been married to Therese for 42 years and is a proud father of two sons, Jason and Brian, and grandfather to Emryck, Jamison, Nyle, Keelyn, and Nolan. He’s currently in his 10th year as Director and Lead Instructor of the Wheatland Ducks Travel Baseball Program, a 501(c) organization.

• South Chicago
• ASCAP & BMI since 2012
• Nashville Songwriters Assoc. Int’l
• Classic Country · Southern Rock · Blues