The inspiration for this album has been a culmination of many experiences in E.William's live. His ultimate success is his family! His beautiful wife and three amazing children. This is his great joy. Everything that he does is dedicated to them and their happiness. All the hard work and sleepless nights getting this album done would be for not if it wasn't for his pride and joy; his family.
So here is a look into the live of E.William and see a little about what makes him tick.
E.William, born July 1979, Ernest William Perry Pierce, was born and raised in Detroit, MI. His father left when he was young, so it was always a struggle for his mother, Cassandra, to raise three children on her own. There were many times where they were living on the streets yet Cassandra always found a way to take care of Ernest and his siblings, always making sure that they had something to eat and some sense of security in their lives. Ernest acquired his work ethic from his mother’s example.
During this time of struggle, the only peace Ernest found was singing in his mother’s choir at a local Baptist church. This was his first exposure to music and it was apparent to everyone right away, that he had a gift for singing. This singing group performed throughout many different cities and it became obvious to Ernest that he had found his passion in life. Up to this point in his life, he had only experienced joy when he was on stage performing. It was pretty clear what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. However, times were tough in Detroit and living on the streets was not a life for children. So Ernest’s mother packed up the family and moved them out to Salt Lake City, UT (1987).
The family settled in, reestablishing themselves with a local church; the Faith Temple Pentecostal Church. Here they found friends and church members that welcomed them with open arms. Ernest kept singing and started to make a name for himself through church performances and his angelic voice. Crowds were moved by his soulful sounds and touched by the passion in this young performer. The crowds could feel and relate to the shared experiences expressed by Ernest. Crowds were touched to witness so much soul in this young man and his ability to relate his story to theirs, through song.
While still singing, Ernest found a way to help his family survive and to have a home in Utah. Through the help of a close church member and friend, Adrian Jefferson, Ernest started to learn how to cut hair in Adrian’s barber shop. Finding this additional talent, he could make money and continue to help his family. His sister was failing in health and his mother was struggling to keep the bills paid. So Ernest went to work in Adrian’s barber shop at age 15.
Always keeping his dream of being a singer/songwriter, Ernest began to work with local producers and managers to advance his career in music. Having developed his own voice and sound in the genre of R&B/Neo Soul, Ernest has had the opportunity to open for major act and muscians: Brian McKnight, Ice Cube, Method Man; Bone Thugs N Harmony; Genuine; Rakem; Tech N9ne; Jedi Mind Tricks, Yellow Card, Bothers Ally and Flobots. He has worked with non-profits organizations to help inspire children to enjoy and appreciate the musical arts. He has also performed at a number of fundraising functions to raise money of other local charities to help the community.
4 years ago, Ernest decided to become a business owner and open his own barber shop, Phat Napps. People come from all over Salt Lake County to have Ernest cut their hair. He has created a large clientele list and fan base. Everyone that visits Phat Napps, is greeted with a smile and soulful music by E.William. Whether it’s played from one of his personal tracks, or sung live, everyone becomes an instant fan. This has helped him run a successful business all while pursuing his love and dreams of becoming a professional musician.
Ernest has done many things, yet none is he more proud of then his wife Kendra and three children: Jaydin, Izaiah and Kyrie. They are his inspiration and the love of his life. Ernest has said many times, “If it weren’t for my wife and kids, none of this would be worth it.”
“I write my songs and sing them with passion and love so that the world can hear my soul tell its story.” – E.William
To find out more about E.William visit www.ewilliammusic.com. Here you can see his music video, “You Don’t Know Me”. You can send him feedback on his Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ewilliammusic.
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