Will Sheff, the well-known frontman and sole constant member of the Austin-based indie-rock band Okkervil River, released his first solo album Nothing Special in October of 2022.

For his first foray into solo artistry, he collaborated with several artists, including Cassandra Jenkins, Christian Lee Hutson, Eric D. Johnson, and more. Something he says is ironic when you consider most of Okkervil River’s catalog of songs were not collaborations.

As it was for so many artists, the pandemic was a turning point for Sheff. At the start of it, he learned that the former drummer for Okkervil River, Travis Nelsen, had passed away at 44. That, combined with a move to Southern California and a new lifestyle, brought time for contemplation that expressed itself in songwriting. In an interview with The New Yorker, Sheff notes the centerpiece of the album, “Holy Man,” is the best song he’s ever written.

In its entirety, the album is an opportunity for Sheff to grieve the loss of Nelsen and consider the opportunities in a mid-life pivot. With Nothing Special, Sheff is learning to let go of the past, perfection and the rock and roll lifestyle. His live performances promise to offer audiences thought-provoking opportunities with an intimate feel. If you’re ready to let go of the past and side-step perfection, you’ll want to be inspired by Sheff’s show.

Get tickets to see Will Sheff live when he comes to a city near you.

Will Sheff Live in Concert

Will Sheff (born July 7, 1976) is originally from Meridian, New Hampshire. He majored in English at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Upon graduating in 1998, he moved to Austin, Texas, where he started the band Okkervil River with Seth Warren and Zachary Thomas. Jonathan Meiburg soon joined the band, and they were discovered during a SXSW set in 2000.

Nine albums later and a selection of band members in and out, Okkervil River operates as more of a collective now.