Willi Carlisle
Artist
Previous Events
Bio
Willi Carlisle (born May 29, 1989) is an American folk singer‑songwriter and multi‑instrumentalist from Kansas, USA, now based in northwest Arkansas. He’s known for blending traditional American folk, country, and punk‑infused roots music with vivid storytelling and sharp social insight. His work often tackles themes of rural life, queer identity, love, loss, and community, delivered with a mix of heartfelt emotion, humor, and poetic depth. Carlisle grew up in a musical family on the Midwestern plains, where his father’s polka and folk music shaped his early exposure to traditional sounds. He began singing in choirs and studying poetry, later earning an MFA in Poetry from the University of Arkansas, which deepened his lyrical craft. Musically versatile, he performs on guitar, banjo, fiddle, accordion, harmonica, and more, creating songs that range from poignant ballads to energetic folk tales. His critically acclaimed albums include Critterland (2024), Peculiar, Missouri (2022), and the self‑produced Winged Victory (2025), each showcasing his ability to weave traditional influences with contemporary perspectives. Carlisle’s music connects age‑old folk traditions to modern life, earning him recognition as a dynamic voice in today’s Americana and folk scene. He also appears frequently at folk festivals and has toured internationally.
Music style
Folk, Americana, Country-Folk
Popular Songs
Loading music player...