Lenny Williams: Still In The Game

Now let’s hop right into this latest single, “SUGA DADDY” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?

I was collabrating with Steve Russell from TROOP, and we were talking about our daughters and how much the dating scene has changed. One thing lead to to another, and he came up with the idea to write about Suga(r) Daddies.

How then does “SUGAR DADDY” either differ and / or compare to previous Lenny Williams’ entries?

The last few years I have been doing a lot of shows in the Southeast and Midwest where the Southern Soul sound is very prominent. So I have been writing songs that appeal to the Southern Soul audience, as well as music lovers in general.

“SUGAR DADDY“ comes courtesy of Bridle Ridge Records — What are your future plans and / or goals for the label! And who all, besides yourself of course, currently makes up its artist roster?

I’m currently the only artist on Bridle Ridge Records by design. However, my future plans for Bridle Ridge Records does include developing new talent.

As a songwriter, when you sit down to pen your lyrics where do you draw your inspiration from?

I usually draw my inspiration for music from things that I see, things that I hear and personal experiences.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into entertainment — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Lenny Williams?

I grew up singing in church as a kid with The Hawkins Family and Sly Stone’s Family. And on a dare from a friend, I entered a talent show and won. I kept entering shows and winning around Oakland, CA, and was eventually approached by a producer from Fantasy Records.

Now you’re a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, correct? So growing up in “Dogtown,” who all did / do you consider to be your strongest influences?

I was born in Little Rock, but left Little Rock as a 2 year old. I was raised in Oakland, CA. My musical influences were Sam Cooke and R&B artists in general.

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

Soul music.

What particular string of events actually led to you joining Tower of Power as their lead vocalist?

I started out as a songwriter for Tower of Power, and eventually became the lead singer.

Why did you later opt to go solo?

There were a lot of band members using drugs and a lot of hanger ons using and supplying drugs to the band, and I knew eventually someone was going to lose their life and or go to jail and I didn’t want any part of either.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?

I’d like for my music to make people feel good, either through the music, message, or both.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

That would be Otis Redding because he was such a great writer and innovator.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Carnegie Hall because it’s so iconic, and so many legends have sung there.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B music?

I don’t really judge music that way. I try to stay away from censorship and judging other artist’s artistic offerings.

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?

The ability to collaborate with young artists, working hard, taking care of business and my health.

Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?

I would love to someday publish my life story.

To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Becoming friends with Aretha Franklin ranks right up there at the top.

What’s an average day like for you?

Taking an early morning walk, doing my vocal exercises, returning business calls, interviews, Zoom meetings and hanging out with my wife, Debbie.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I try to be accessible either through personal contact or online. I never refuse a picture or an autograph, as long as time permits.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

I love performing on stage and the interaction with my audience. My least favorite are the airline delays.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Perfect your craft, find a good attorney and a good manager. Stay clear of substance abuse at all costs, and take care of your body.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

I see myself on a stage somewhere and in the studio recording myself, and maybe producing a young artist.

As for the immediate, what’s next for you, Lenny?

Taking out the garbage…it’s Tuesday night!

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?

Don’t think so.

Any “parting” words for our readers?

I would like to thank my fans for their support all these years. I appreciate everyone that has purchased my music, everyone that has purchased a ticket to see me perform. I don’t take any of it for granted. It’s greatly appreciated!

Connect w/Lenny Williams Online:

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