He sat in a room with blue lights proudly showcasing his love story to a small group. Some call him Michael Bell, others may call him Dixon, but to those closest to him he’s known as Mack. Wilds has decided that his music is personal and he welcomes listeners in as a part of his family. His album will be available Sept. 3o.
What made you take the leap from acting to singing?
Perfect timing. “90210” was just ending. I actually have been doing music the whole time. I put out a mixtape in 2011 called Remember, Remember. Me and Salaam were finding our groove, working together; I’ve known him since I was 19.
Where did you get the name Mack?
*He pulls out his ID*
Tristan Paul Mack Wilds: it’s my real name. Mack is my family name, bigger than just a middle name. My mom, my friends back in Stapleton, they all call me “Mack” because the music is so much more personal. I wanted you guys to call me what my family calls me.
How was it working with Ne-Yo?
Ne-Yo is dope. He wrote the song with Salaam. Originally it only had a verse and a chorus. Salaam gave it to me, I sung it and Ne-Yo gave me the blessing to go ahead and finish writing the second verse and the bridge. It was a surprise to Ne-Yo; he didn’t even know it was me singing when he heard it.
Who would you say you get your musical inspiration from?
There’s so many. I listen to way too much music to have one in particular. I listen to everyone from Lady Antebellum to Jay Z to Little Brother. If I really had to choose, I would say Lauryn Hill.
What do you want people to get from your album?
I want them to hear and feel New York the same way I heard and felt it as a kid. From jumping turnstiles to Chinese food at the Rucker Park with extra duck sauce. The feeling of summertime in New York.
