Jazz
England
Peter Williams
About Peter Williams
In the artist’s words:
Describe one of your earliest musical memories in detail.
As a student in Sheffield, I saw Gil Scott-Heron’s Amnesia Express. The bassist locked eyes with me during a wild slap solo, grinning the whole time. The next day, I bought my first bass guitar, and that moment set me on my path as a musician.
What are your top 3 all-time favorite albums on Apple Music, and why? Why did you choose these three albums in particular?
Charles Mingus, Mingus Ah Um Bonus Track Version
Prince, Sign O' The Times
The John Scofield Band, überjam
Überjam by John Scofield blends jazz, funk, and groove effortlessly. Mingus Ah Um is pure energy, genius, and soul. Sign O’ The Times by Prince changed how I heard music—his minimalism and ostentation still inspire me today.
Find a song of yours on Apple Music that you love and tell us what makes it special. Tell us why you chose this song.
“Salientology”
"Salientology" means the study of jumping—a word I coined for a tune dedicated to my friend "Froggy" from our circus tour days. It’s high-energy, playful, and still a favorite in my setlist today, now performed with my group Bebop Bonfire.
What’s one of the most memorable moments in your career so far?
Two big moments: Meeting my girlfriend while touring with Scandinavia’s largest circus and moving to Copenhagen, and hearing my recording in Midnight in Paris, which won an Oscar and a Grammy. Music—and life—can take you unexpected places.
Is there anything left on your bucket list as an artist or band?
I’ve been lucky to play with many of my heroes, and still play with some, but I’d love to tour internationally more often. Another dream? Playing gigs with my daughter, who loves to sing. Music is always evolving, and so are the goals!
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