Meet Will Urtuzuastegui

We had the good fortune of connecting with Will Urtuzuastegui and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Will, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
On September 27th, 2013, my sister and stepdad, along with two other young men, were killed in a car crash in Montgomery, Minnesota. I was 14 at the time. Naturally, this tragedy completely changed my life. For some time after the accident, I felt like there wasn’t much direction in my life. Then I found music—or as I like to say, music found me. For over a year and a half after the accident, my life was a blur, but in the summer of 2015, I began to write lyrics.

I remember how much music was there for me afterward. I really enjoyed listening to it; it helped put into words what I couldn’t express. After feeling inspired by the music I was listening to, I began to write myself. Writing lyrics gave me something to focus on.

For years, I wrote lyrics without music. I would structure them like songs, even though I didn’t know how to play any instruments, with the hope that one day I would learn how to create the actual music to bring my words to life.

The thought process behind starting Septooseven came from my story of loss. Music inspired me and gave me something to aim for after experiencing great loss. My hope is to inspire those who are going through a major life change through my music, just as music did for me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets Septooseven apart from other bands is the “why” behind the music. As I mentioned earlier, my hope and goal are to inspire others who have experienced loss, tragedy, and grief. However, our music isn’t limited to these themes. My aim is to uplift people, no matter what they’re going through. Another thing that distinguishes Septooseven is our live shows. We bring a lot of energy, and our focus is on leaving the audience with a memorable experience. The goal is that you leave the venue feeling uplifted, inspired, or with greater clarity about whatever situation you’re facing.

I’m particularly excited about releasing more music for people to enjoy. My brother and I wrote a song together called “Just an Attempt,” which I can’t wait to share. I’m also looking forward to releasing an album at some point, whenever the time is right. I love listening to records from start to finish and believe there’s real artistry in crafting an album that tells a cohesive story.

Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of patience and having a backup plan. The reality is that making a living in music can be challenging. One lesson I’ve learned is to pursue a professional career in another area of your life as well. At the time of this interview, I’m actually returning to Arizona State University to finish my undergraduate degree in Geography.

It’s also crucial to recognize how long success in music can take. Everyone’s journey is different, but for me, it wasn’t until 2023—when I was 24—that my first song was released, even though I started writing lyrics at 16. Patience is essential when pursuing any art form. I believe that if your heart is in the right place when sharing your art, success will follow. Be persistent.

One thing I want people to know about Septooseven is that the name is a portmanteau of September 27th, the date my sister passed away. I chose that name because, without the loss of my sister, music wouldn’t have found me. Naming the band after that date is my way of honoring her.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite places to visit in Phoenix include Nello’s Pizza in Ahwatukee. It’s a fantastic sit-down pizza restaurant located at the corner of 48th Street and Warner Road. I have a special connection to this spot because I worked there bussing tables during high school, so it holds a special place in my heart. Another place I enjoy is Chase Field, where I love watching the Diamondbacks play. I’m a big fan of the team, and with their recent success, the games have become even more exciting and fun to attend.

I also enjoy taking walks along the Greenbelt in Scottsdale. It’s a beautiful walking path that runs alongside a golf course, making it a perfect spot to clear my mind or spend quality time with loved ones.

For fellow music lovers, visiting the Musical Instrument Museum and catching a show at The Rebel Lounge are among my favorite activities.

Lastly, I love to hike up “A” Mountain in Tempe, especially at night. The view of the city lights from the top is really spectacular.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Definitely! Septooseven wouldn’t be what it is today without the help, support, and guidance of my friends Bryan and Andrew. Both older than me, they’ve been mentors who have encouraged me to develop Septooseven into what it is now. Bryan and I spent countless hours talking on the phone, and he played a crucial role in helping me become the person I am today. I owe him a lot of credit for helping me mature and take the necessary steps to bring my band and music to life.

Andrew is also a significant part of this journey, as he’s been the one to help produce our music.

Additionally, I’d like to thank my parents and my songwriting coach, Lindsey, for their support, gifts, and graces as well. Lastly, a big shoutout to my younger brother Jack. Septooseven wouldn’t have its music without him. His support and willingness to share his songwriting skills are a big reason why the band has any music released at all.

All six of these people are instrumental to Septooseven’s origin, story, and future.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/septooseven/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@septooseven

Other: Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0950yuM4HfBLh3JsMtAdWS?si=qYdaXkd8SEyEv2PlR2TjEA 

Image Credits
Cody Hoffman, and Will Urtuzuastegui