Fresh insights from Jerry Wonda as he schools NYC’s next music stars.
The latest edition of the Songwriters Hall of Fame Master Sessions featured acclaimed producer and songwriter Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis, who took time to inspire students at Stuyvesant High School in New York City. The event was organized in partnership with Simone Dixon of Sony Music Publishing and hosted by Harold Stephan, ensuring an atmosphere ripe for learning and creativity.
Wonda shared valuable lessons about the music industry with a group of eager young talents from the All-City Modern Music Project and Sound Thinking NYC. Many attendees aspire to pursue careers as artists, writers, and producers, and Wonda was clear from the outset: a career in music requires dedication and hard work beyond the glamor often portrayed online. With a mix of humor and honesty, he emphasized the importance of commitment and the sacrifices necessary to succeed.
Wonda’s reflections on musicianship struck a chord with the audience, particularly his own experiences learning the bass guitar in church. When a bass player failed to show up one Sunday, Wonda seized the opportunity to step in, a moment he described as both daunting and transformative. His encouraging message to the students: don’t wait until you feel ready; seize the moment and let your talent shine.
Alongside artistry, Wonda stressed the significance of technical knowledge in music production. He recounted his early days of learning about recording and engineering, and the humble beginnings of internships, where he would often find himself performing mundane tasks. “Being in the room” with professionals provided invaluable insights that ultimately led to his first big break in music, working on the Fugees’ iconic track, “Killing Me Softly.”
The session also focused on the challenges posed by today’s fast-paced music production environment. Wonda cautioned students against relying too heavily on technology, advising that effective songwriting requires a thorough understanding of structure and emotion. Knowing how to craft a song involves more than just mixing loops; it’s about creating a narrative that resonates.
A recurring theme throughout the morning was collaboration as a vital aspect of a successful music career. Wonda encouraged students to work with strong writers and performers, underscoring the necessity of surrounding themselves with honest partners who can provide constructive feedback. In music, building connections is not just beneficial; it’s essential.
In a standout moment, Wonda broadened the definition of what it means to “make it” in the music industry. He reminded students that success comes in many forms and that roles such as attorneys, managers, and engineers are all crucial to the ecosystem of music. After sharing original works, students received insightful critiques from Wonda, reinforcing the value of dedication and integrity in their craft.
The session concluded with a poignant student performance of “Killing Me Softly,” a fitting tribute to the legacy of Jerry Wonda and a testament to the impactful exchange that took place that day.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame continues its mission to honor songwriters across genres while nurturing the next generation of musical talent through initiatives like these Master Sessions.