Biography
Who is William Beckett?
Early life and musical beginnings
William Beckett was born in Barrington, Illinois. During his high school years, he began performing in a band called Remember Maine. This group released an album titled The Last Place You Look on LLR Recordings while he was seventeen years old. He later credited his sister as his first audience who provided honest feedback on the songs he wrote in their basement.
While attending Barrington High School, he met Adam Siska, who eventually became a core member of his future band. In 2003, William teamed up with guitarist Mike Carden to create The Academy Is. Both men were previously in rival Chicago musical groups before deciding to write and perform together as a new unit.
The Academy Is and collaborations
The Academy Is signed to Atlantic Records, Fueled by Ramen, and Decaydance Records. As the lead singer and lyricist, William Beckett helped the group gain attention in the rock music scene. Alex Davies from the BBC once compared his performance style to Prince and Adam Lazzara.
Beyond his primary band, William contributed guest vocals to tracks by other artists. He appeared on songs by Fall Out Boy, including Sophomore Slump or Comeback of the Year and What a Catch, Donnie. He also provided vocals for tracks by Gym Class Heroes, Cute Is What We Aim For, and Cobra Starship. Also, he earned songwriting credits for songs by artists like Demi Lovato and Hey Monday.
Solo career and projects
After the band dissolved, William Beckett pursued a solo career. He released his debut EP, Walk the Talk, in April 2012, followed by Winds Will Change in July 2012 and What Will Be in October of the same year. He then signed with Equal Vision Records in 2013.
His first full studio album, Genuine and Counterfeit, arrived on August 20, 2013. The project included the single Benny and Joon. During that year, he performed at the Acoustic Basement tent during the Van's Warped Tour. He also contributed a cover of Do You Hear What I Hear to the Punk Goes Christmas compilation album released by Fearless Records.
Personal life
William Beckett has been married to Christine Bandy since May 2007. In a 2009 interview with Alternative Press, he confirmed that he has a child. He remains active in the music community, including a 2017 performance at Emo Nite Day and a 2023 appearance at an Emo Nite event alongside Gabe Saporta.
Birthday and age
William Beckett was born on February 11, 1985, which makes William 41 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. William shares the date with 67 other famous people.
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