Marlon Williams

Already a veteran singer songwriter at the age of 26, Marlon Williams found his calling early at choir practice, growing up in Lyttelton. He has since performed extensively around the world, both solo and with current backing group, the Yarra Benders. He first came to attention as frontman of The Unfaithful Ways and has also performed and recorded as a duo with Delaney Davidson, his music straddling folk, country, bluegrass and the blues. After several years based in Melbourne, Williams is now an internationally acclaimed folk and country singer, with live appearances on high profile United States chat shows and the European festival circuit. His music was described by The Guardian as ‘‘delicious, oddly uplifting misery’’. He has also appeared sporadically as a film and TV actor, including recent New Zealand feature film The Rehearsal and a supporting cast role in 2015 ABC series The Beautiful Lie on Australian television.

What are you plugging right now?

Me and my band are going to New Plymouth for that ole Womad shindig they throw there on the weekend of the 17th March.

Womad is famous for its musical diversity. I know you’re a local boy, but what the hell: Tell us a little about your cultural background, and the music of your home country?

I’m New Zealand Maori, the music of my home country is the Eagle vs Shark motion picture soundtrack.

What do you enjoy about playing events like Womad?

Definitely the diversity of the bill. I can watch some traditional Vietnamese singers then walk 100 metres and see The Specials. Awesome.

What’s your idea of perfect happiness?

Sitting in Brian Tamaki’s living room and gently showing him which charities are going to be receiving substantial donations from the Destiny Church. it’s about gambling. It’s probably also about guilt.

Listening to?

Early Aaron Neville of the Neville Brothers. He’s a crystal glass in human form. I invite you to take a listen to Wrong Number (I’m Sorry, Goodbye) and hear for yourself. chance to flex his newly found muscles, and Leonard Cohen not being around anymore. Nah, just kidding. Nothing.

What life lesson would you pass on to your children?

Nothing embarrasses hate more than love.

Can music change the world?

If Bono says it can, then I for one believe him. – Grant Smithies

Womad New Zealand takes place March 17-19 in New Plymouth. Full details: womad.co.nz.