“The gift of creating music, is not only an honor, but also a blessing from above.” These are self-motivating and inspirational words that continue to guide Zachary Williams, also known to many as “ZW,” through his musical journey. ZW is a bonafide musician, arranger, composer, producer, and singer. The many hats he wears are captured within all types of music genres including gospel, r&b, jazz, hip hop, and much more. Born in Charlotte, NC, ZW’s love for music began at the age of nine. While originally learning piano as his first instrument, the trombone soon thereafter, became the instrument that many would later know him by. The trombone became intriguing to Zachary, due in large part to the sound that his cousin, Kenneth Carr (international renowned trombonist and the original recording artist of shout band music) was embedding into the music industry.
As Zachary continued to grow in age, his gift of music also matriculated in a short amount of time. This process paved way for acceptance into Northwest School Of The Arts, where he majored in music from grades six through twelve. During Zachary’s tenure there, he held first chair trombonist in jazz, wind ensemble, and symphonic bands. While attending Northwest, the music program was regarded as one of the best in the State of North Carolina. Before ZW’s completion of high school, he was inducted into the Tri M Music Honor Society, which is an international honor society for high school musicians.
Although he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from North Carolina Central University in May 2012, ZW remained faithful to his musical craft throughout his college years. Awarded a music scholarship to march with the Marching Sound Marching, ZW was a member on NCCU’s well-known marching band for several years. The biggest highlight of that opportunity came when the Marching Sound Machine was invited to the Battle of the Bands at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia, his freshman year. Throughout his tenure at NCCU, he was an avid follower of the university’s music department. Working in the music library, sitting in rehearsals, going to recitals, jamming with musicians, and networking with the professors were daily activities for ZW. Robert Trowers, a professor and former trombonist for the Count Basie Orchestra, also mentored Zachary. Gigging was also a big activity for Zachary while in college because it allowed him a platform that he used to market himself. Whether it was performances “on the yard”, nightclubs, or church services, ZW utilized every opportunity to stamp his brand.
As Zachary continues to embark on his own path in music, he is honored to be a part of such a rich, musical family heritage. As stated before, Zachary’s cousin, Kenneth Carr is a world-renowned jazz artist. Other notable family members are gospel and r&b legend Regina Belle, and Nappy Brown, who is a member of the Blues Hall of Fame. Throughout Zachary’s music career, he has shared the stage or networked with artists such as Tye Tribbett, Byron Cage, Luther Barnes, Raheem DeVaughn, Ludacris, Lloyd, The Dallas Brass, and many more.
ZW currently resides in his hometown of Charlotte, where he is currently active in the music movement. You can also find him touring with Kenny Carr and The Tigers, and producing and recording music for himself, as well as other artists. ZW’s notable work includes co-producing and playing on “Introducing the Seal Breakers” (2011) and playing on Kenneth Carr’s latest album, “Amazing Love” (2013). ZW also released his debut single titled "Bone Bounce" in June 2015 and set to release his debut album "Journey" in the fall of 2016.