On the heels of prior single “Get Ready,” Toronto singer-songwriter Katie Dauson shares a charming new single, “Will You Won’t You.” Dauson draws inspiration from 1950s rockabilly, particularly The Crickets, and follows in the footsteps of 1970s revivalists like Blondie and George Thorogood who reimagined the style. “Will You Won’t You” blends vintage energy and modern flair, resulting in an irresistible track that will, at minimum, leave listeners nodding along to the beat.
Produced by James Nickle, “Will You Won’t You” was recorded with a careful touch that blends Dauson’s retro influences and modern stylings. Dauson recorded the rhythm guitar using a left-handed G&L Comanche in Shoreline Gold, drawn to its distinctive Z-coil pickups for their unique tonal character. She also added a fuzz pedal to inject a touch of modern dirt and grit into the mix. These choices are readily apparent in “Will You Won’t You” and help bring rockabilly into the modern age.
“Will You Won’t You” is a delightful throwback anthem, evocative of the 50s but not stuck in that time. The addition of saxophone to the instrumentation brings the track to life, and echoes George Thorogood’s earlier innovation. “I love George Thorogood’s guitar playing, and the fact that he added a saxophone player to his band in 1980,” Dauson explains. “Saxophone is such an important instrument in rock and roll and rockabilly, it really elevated his music.” Dauson’s palpable love for rockabilly pervades the entire track, and perfectly colors the song’s vintage aesthetic.
Remaining simple yet compelling, “Will You Won’t You” is quintessential Katie Dauson, and captures her signature blend of inspired homage and unapologetic individuality. Dauson wears her influences on her sleeve, which helps “Will You Won’t You” retain its charm and makes it so effective. “Will You Won’t You” wouldn’t sound out of place in a 50s dance hall, but it remains fresh in the studio and effortlessly adapts to modern sensibilities.
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