From numerous sold-out shows to playing every festival known to man this summer, Wonky Willa is clearly solidifying his presence in the modern bass scene. His theatrical presence and loyal Oompa Loompas make his stage performances stand out among the rest. Known for his signature black top hat and wonky sound design, Wonky Willa is now venturing into uncharted territories with his newest creation, Disco Wonk.
First and foremost, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, and how long you have been DJing and producing?
My name is Nicholas Olivieri, and I am 23 years old. I’m originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. I’ve been making music for about 10 years! I just went full-time, though, back in March.
How did the whole Wonky Willa concept come about?
Wonky has always been my favorite dubstep vocabulary word, and it really describes my sound design. I also connect deeply with the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — specifically, that feeling the children experience when they enter the factory for the first time. They want to go crazy, eat all the candy, explore, etc. That’s what I want my music and live shows to represent, metaphorically.
Disco Wonk, can you tell us a little bit more about this and why Disco?
I’m a sucker for funky music. About a year ago, I experimented with laying more dubstep-inspired sounds with disco percussion, and WOW…I fell in love.
Any plans on experimenting with Drum and Bass in the future?
That is not on my radar but maybe one day!
WonkyWilla is a man of many genres. Who’s currently in your Spotify rotation?
Ice cube, Suga Free, Swingrowers, Opiuo
If you could steal any artist’s USB drive, whose would it be and why?
I’d probably have to go with INFEKT, his sound design is absolutely insane!
What’s the hardest thing about being a DJ and Producer?
Creating a steady balance in my lifestyle, that was a serious learning lesson in the beginning.
On the flip side, what’s the most rewarding aspect about being a DJ and Producer?
Getting to meet so many different kinds of people from all over the world!
You’re about halfway through your Get-Wonked tour. What’s been a tour highlight?
Definitely the sold out show at Fox theatre in Boulder, Co. I started the night off with a Disco Wonk set, then went right into an hour and half of dubstep. The energy & vibes were unmatched.
So you’re playing a barrage of Festivals this summer, where can your loyal Oompas find you this festival season?
Electric Forest, Lost Lands, Bass Canyon, Same Same But Different, Sound Haven, Friendzy Fest, Metamorphosis Festival, and lots of headline shows! If you’re reading this, probably your city too 😉
Now with so much touring and constantly being on the road, what’s one thing you never leave home without??
My Top Hat and USB
Toxic Wonk, what is it? And where can we find more info about it?
HA..HA.. this is a collaboration with my friend “Toxic Rob” he’s a very talented vocalist and we had lots of fun putting that together. Thinking wonky boom bap rap.
Last but surely not least, Favorite Willy Wonka, Gene Wilder, or Johnny Depp?
Johnny Depp!!
Playing not just one but two sets at this year’s Electric Forest, Wonky Willa is getting ready for some of his most exciting performances yet! He has also just announced his limited edition Disco Wonk line of merch and the Wookout at Virginia Beach on Saturday, July 5th. There’s really nothing he can’t do! So if you’re craving a sweet treat from the Wub factory himself, keep an eye out for that black top hat playfully dancing in the breeze, surrounded by all those Weird and Wonky Wubs!