Stephen Wilson Jr.: The Unexpected Rise of a Country Rock Sensation
Singer-songwriter and guitarist Stephen Wilson Jr. is quickly becoming a name to watch in the country and rock music scenes. His recent debut on The Howard Stern Show offered a fascinating glimpse into the journey of a musician who never envisioned himself on stage, let alone earning a New Artist of the Year nomination at the 2025 CMA Awards.
Finding His Voice Through Music
Wilson Jr. described himself as a reserved child, more comfortable observing than participating. “I was pretty much a fly on the wall, and I really didn’t have much to say,” he shared with Howard Stern. “So, it was really hard for anyone to imagine me as a singer because I wasn’t a talker.” That all changed at the age of 16 when his father gifted him a guitar.
“I was really trying to figure out, like, am I good at anything?” Wilson Jr. recalled. “I thought I was just kind of gonna be a [science] nerd for the rest of my life, and I was totally fine with that.” But the moment he picked up the guitar, something clicked. “When I started playing guitar it was like I’ve always known how to do these things. It almost makes me believe in past lives.”
Hours of Practice and Musical Influences
Driven by a newfound passion, Wilson Jr. dedicated himself to mastering the instrument, practicing up to 12 hours a day. He immersed himself in the sounds of Soundgarden, meticulously learning their songs and tunings. He also developed a unique percussive style, inspired by Dave Matthews, treating his acoustic guitar “like a drum with strings.”
The Story Behind ‘One’ – His Beloved Guitar
Wilson Jr.’s weathered Takamine guitar, affectionately nicknamed “One,” has become almost as famous as the musician himself. Howard Stern noted its resemblance to Willie Nelson’s iconic “Trigger.” Wilson Jr. shared the quirky story of how he acquired it: “I shop with my hands, not brands,” he laughed, explaining he found it on Craigslist for just $400 in a Nashville parking lot. The seller, operating out of the back of his van, even powered his amplifier with a cigarette lighter! “I plugged it in, and I knew within like five seconds that this was my forever guitar.”.
‘Gary’ and Beyond
Wilson Jr.’s dedication and talent have culminated in critically acclaimed music, including his haunting new track, “Gary,” and a captivating cover of “Stand by Me.” His performance on The Howard Stern Show showcased his raw talent and captivating stage presence.
You can listen to Howard Stern Presents: Stephen Wilson Jr. on Friday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. on Howard 101 and find more information about his tour dates here.
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