Singer, songwriter and instrumentalist Vili V (Vili Verhovsek) was born to be a musician. Originally from Hamilton, Ont., this passionate artist has been inspiring audiences with his unique sound, charisma and charm since the age of 17. And the moment he hits the stage with guitar in hand, his songs invite the listener into a musical conversation meant to uplift the spirit. His new independent album The Journey does just that.
Vili V has been a musician for most of his life. By age 16, he was regularly performing in church and private events. By age 18, he won the 1996 Collingwood Elvis Tribute Championship – which is second only to Graceland's in prestige. And as he continued to hone his skills several awards followed, including a Top 10 finish at the YTV Achievement Awards. In 2000, Vili found his niche and decided to become a solo artist, upon graduating from Mohawk College's music program.
His blend of classic rock ‘n’ roll, roots and inspirational music has allowed him to tour in places such as Slovenia, New York, Tennessee, British Columbia and Quebec with appearances on radio and television. He's performed with such Canadian icons as rock legend Ronnie Hawkins and Polka king Walter Ostanek, and shared the stage with international comedy superstar Russell Peters.
In 2003 Vili released his debut album Indigo Blue on the Sextant/EMI label, a project that he wrote and co-produced. As music critic Jeff Mahoney wrote in The Hamilton Spectator, “The record is a powerful debut. Vili Verhovsek’s voice delivers the music with great command and identity.” One song from the album was even featured in a movie screened at the Cannes International Film Festival in France.
But at the same time, Vili yearned to create more inspirational music. His new album The Journey features mostly original songs that connect with the human condition, and in it, he plays all the instruments – including guitar, piano, organ and percussion.
“It’s important that each of my songs speak to people,” says Vili. “The song ‘Young Man (Leave Your Guns at Home)’ was inspired by a shooting that took place outside a church in Toronto. I had to write a song that would get the message out about gun violence in the city.”
Vili’s passion for people is also shown in his charity work for organizations such as the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, the Canadian Red Cross and several church ministries.
www.vilimusic.com
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