WILL CO’AN

CASTLE STAGE - SATURDAY 29 AUGUST @ 2pm

Will Co’an is a singer-songwriter based in Bridgnorth whose deeply personal songwriting blends intricate fingerpicking with evocative lyricism and a lifetime of musical experience. Rooted in folk, acoustic and contemporary singer-songwriter traditions, his songs inhabit the fragile space between despair and hope, exploring the quiet resilience of the human spirit with honesty, warmth and emotional depth.

Will’s musical journey began at school, where he learned piano and guitar before becoming a drummer in a school band. A few years later, while living in Hampshire, he played drums with local bands, immersing himself in the thriving live music scene of the time. In 1970, during a local club event, he made the pivotal decision to move from behind the drum kit to guitar — a change that would shape the direction of his musical life.

Shortly afterwards, Will joined a newly formed electric folk band, performing across the Hampshire folk club circuit and sharing stages with touring artists including Johnny Silvo and Ralph McTell. The experience deepened his connection to folk music and storytelling, influences that continue to echo through his songwriting today.

Around late 1971, Will began working as a session musician, recording with a wide range of artists and music organisations while also performing live with numerous rock, pop and country bands. During this period he shared stages with artists as varied as Frank Ifield, Dave Berry, Buck Owens and George McCrae. His years as a working musician continued until around 1984–85, when he stepped away from performing.

After more than two decades away from the stage, Will returned briefly for special appearances as a solo artist at the Bridgnorth Music and Arts Festival in 2009 and again in 2011. Following those performances, he once again retreated from live music.

In September 2025, however, a new creative chapter began when Will started writing new original material in earnest. Since then, he has written over 20 songs, with several more currently in development. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Jimmie Spheeris, Mickey Newbury, Danny O’Keefe, John Martyn and Mick Flannery, his music is marked by atmospheric melodies, introspective storytelling and a raw emotional resonance that lingers long after the final note.

Currently, Will is working on his debut EP, scheduled for release later this year, with a full-length album planned for 2027.