Wellington Bullings

Photo by @hdfacreative @hdfaphotography

Singer-Songwriter

Wellington Bullings is a singer-songwriter based in Colorado.

When did you first get into music?

As a child, I used to write a lot of poetry and stories. I later became aware of the rhythmic similarities between writing and music, especially when it came to poetry. Naturally, I was very sensitive to sounds and would sing all the time. I found myself writing songs about everything and anything. It came very naturally to me. I wrote my first song at eight years old. My mother soon became aware of my passion and bought me a little pocket recorder that I carried with me everywhere.That’s how it all started.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

In my pre-teens I came across an old Billie Holiday record at a garage sale and decided to buy it. At the time, I was not aware of who she was. That was the first time I had ever heard jazz and I was blown away. I didn’t know it was possible to sing with such depth and emotion. Billie’s voice inspired me to explore my vocal depth further.

Photo by @hdfacreative @hdfaphotography

over the years. In the early stages of my career, I would try to apply too many ideas at once in my compositions. I’ve learned to be more intentional and simplified in my writing. Thoughtfulness and simplicity go a long way.

Photo by @hdfacreative @hdfaphotography

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

Authenticity is the only thing that can make you unique or special as an artist. Anytime you try to be someone you’re not, you end up creating art that lacks honesty. What sets me a part is the authenticity in my work.

What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

One of my biggest challenges as an artist has been learning to deal with making mistakes. I’ve always been a perfectionist and very hard on myself. Over the years, I’ve had to learn how to trust the natural process of success and failure. I’ve had to learn that mistakes mean that I’m trying, and I’d rather try than sit back and do nothing. Putting yourself out there takes courage, and I’m learning to not be afraid of making mistakes.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

You don’t need to suffer “for” your art. Sometimes we suffer, and then decide to create something beautiful out of our suffering, which is actually a very positive experience. In the same way that beauty is derived from chaos and discord, brilliance is drawn from positivity and joy. Music and art reflect the state of the world, and both contrast each other. They exist simultaneously. Some people think that pain is the main source of genius. However, I believe both pain and joy exist at the same time. You cannot draw inspiration from one without the other. It simply comes down to what you do with your pain and suffering…might as well create something beautiful out of it.

Photo by @hdfacreative @hdfaphotography

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

Artists used to be completely reliant on their labels for exposure. Due to the many free promotional platforms on the internet such as YouTube and social media, artists can promote their own music. It’s much more feasible to make it as an independent artist today.

Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans?

I have done a few Live-stream concerts. Overall the response has been positive, but we’re all missing the live experience. I think people appreciate the effort we’re putting forth in order to adapt during this time. I certainly enjoy the convenience of watching some of my favorite artists at home in my pj’s, but it does not replace the excitement of live performances.

If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be?

There are many things I would change about the music industry but I’ll keep the list short. First thing I would restructure is the streaming platforms, and how people access and pay for music. In todays wold, a musicians success is so reliant upon the exposure they get on streaming platforms. Musicians don’t get paid even close to what they should be from those streams. This has changed how people value music. Why would you pay for music when you can stream it for free? Most musicians work very hard to finance the music they create, only to find that the return is in pennies. We need to change the way we value and listen to music.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

The five albums that have helped me become the person I am today would have to be:

1. “Mama’s Gun” by Erykah Badu The first song I heard from this album was “Didn’t Cha Know.” I remember thinking that if I could write a song and groove as beautiful as that one day, I would be happy. I love her unapologetic creativity, sense of humor, and emotional/spiritual depth as an artist. You can’t put her in a box. Her music is never short of authenticity, depth, and it is timeless.

2. “Innervisions” by Stevie Wonder If I could, I would put down every Stevie wonder album in this category but that might be a little excessive. He is by far one of my favorite artists of all time. I love this album because every song is so beautifully crafted. I’m convinced that his singing and writing ability are not of this world. resonates with you, then you can do it too,” meaning if I loved the way a musician played their instrument or wrote a song, then that same spark of brilliance resides in me too, otherwise I wouldn’t be drawn to it. I just have to explore it. This advice has inspired me to continue working hard to reach my full potential as an artist.

3. “Lianne La Havas” by Lianne La Havas This album speaks to me because of the musical honesty and soul. The songs are so beautifully written and her performance is raw and powerful. I love her silky voice and style. I connect deeply to every song on the album and can relate to her musical language.

Photo by @hdfacreative @hdfaphotography

4. “Lovers Rock” by Sade There’s just something undeniably sophisticated and sultry about this woman. Her music is very understated, but I love how much heart she puts into her music. This music is not flashy or particularly clever, yet it is deeply soothing and sensual. I love this album because it makes me feel at peace with myself.

5. “Choose Your Weapon” by Hiatus Kaiyote When I first came across this album, I listened to it nonstop for weeks. The music is so rhythmically and melodically riveting. The vocalist Nai Palm gives me chills and the rest of the band is so incredibly talented. Theres such good chemistry in the band, you can’t deny it.

Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album?

I have a new collection of music that I’m so excited to share! However, there are so many things to organize before I can do that just yet. I’m really excited about this music because it’s very different from anything I’ve created yet. I have a new single and music video coming this Spring…that’s all I’m going to say for now.

What’s next for you?

I’m not sure what’s next, but I can tell you that there will be music. Lots and lots of new music—and many more albums, singles, and performances! Hopefully, I can do a tour in the next year or so. I’d love to tour the world.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

Anyone can access my music on itunes, Spotify, and all the streaming platforms. They can also buy a physical copy of my new album on my website: wellingtonbullings.com

A digital download of the album is available on bandcamp and iTunes.