Bill Santen: “San Antonio brought new life to old songs”
My month at the Parts & Labor Residency was the first time in recent memory, maybe my whole life, when I was able to devote all my time to art and family. Thankfully, I was unable to bring my day job with me. I spent the month writing and recording songs.
Living in a small community in Buffalo, NY, it was amazing to get new perspectives from the San Antonio music community. With help from Jack Mitts, I was able to connect with three incredible San Antonio musicians. As soon as we arrived, I met and recorded with Grammy Award winning musician, Joe Reyes, and learned all about San Antonio’s unique Tejano Music culture. Throughout the month, I also recorded with country musician and record producer, Nick Spyker, and local avant-garde hero, Bill Baird.
Each recording opportunity brought new life to old and new songs. We recorded songs that I had been experimenting with for years, as well as three songs that I finished while in San Antonio. Through each recording session, I learned a lot about how I want these songs to exist in the world. In between recording and working on songwriting, I played two shows alongside Jack Mitts, Mikey Vibe and Bill Baird. I really enjoyed getting to know their music and dipping my toe in San Antonio’s vibrant music scene.
To have this experience alongside my family was an added gift. Thanks to Bill Baird for steering us to the Original Donut Shop. Becky and I enjoyed San Antonio’s famous tacos, while our toddler slept in my lap. We also enjoyed a quick stop at Rolando’s Super Taco, while biking along the Mission Trail.
As two artist parents, it can be challenging to give time and space to everyone’s creativity. Now that we are back in our normal lives, I hope we can keep up this momentum.
