Singer-songwriter William Fitzsimmons returns with Incidental Contact, a moving, introspective album that explores the depths of love and loss. Heartfelt and genuine, the 13-track collection was inspired by the sudden passing of his late stepmother back in 2022. It marks Fitzsimmons’ first album in four years.
Writing songs to me has always been a very therapeutic process. One that’s helped me to manage suffering and develop understanding and clarity through difficult circumstances. I wanted to accomplish two simple things with these songs. One, to honor my stepmom’s memory, and, two, to make a record she herself would enjoy.”
– William Fitzsimmons
Incidental Contact shines an intimate light on themes of grief, nostalgia and hope for the future. Fitzsimmons produced the album in Nashville alongside his friend and producer Marshall Altman. The pair worked together to create the 2008 album, Sparrow and the Crow. Instrumentally, the new release is vibrant and diverse. From the intimate acoustic lines of “Call My Name” to the 80s-inspired synths of “Over You,” the album is sonically one of a kind.
“Holding A Place For You”
Soft and deeply melodic, “Holding A Place For You” creates space for Fitzsimmons’ lyrical storytelling and warm vocals to truly shine. The song’s instrumentals feature atmospheric reverb, crashing percussion hits and subtle beats. It also welcomes the vocal talents of Nashville, Tennessee singer Bre Kennedy. “Holding A Place For You” is the second track found on Incidental Contact. and was first released back in June 2024. Since then, the single has garnered over 9,000 YouTube views and over 100,000 Spotify streams.
Throw a rope off the deeper side
Finding out you were never mine
Trying to pull the sunlight from the leaves”
– “Holding A place for you”
“Incidental Contact”
Intertwined with a soulful saxophone solo, “Incidental Contact” speaks to the beauty of chance encounters that leave lasting impressions on our lives. Although coincidental, their influence is often immense and indescribable.
The album’s title track, which was first released in July 2024, was re-released this past February as a remix with electronic artist Phantom Sage. With accelerating synths, high-energy beats and glitchy sound effects, the new rendition amplifies the song’s original message. The collaboration only further highlights Fitzsimmons’ ability to create unique, soul-stirring music in a variety of musical genres.
I never wanted anyone like this
I never knew that you could want it
So I keep a hidden promise on my lips
And shiver at the incidental contact”
– “incidental contact”
Over his multi-decade career, the Pittsburgh-born, Nashville-based musician has cultivated a discography filled with an array of personal experiences. Fitzsimmons wears his heart on his sleeve as he writes songs about being raised by blind parents, enduring two divorces and adopting two children. He even gives fans a glimpse into his past life with music that showcases his experience working with mentally ill patients as a mental health therapist. Now, Incidental Contact sheds light on the beauty of knowing and loving a family member.
I will not forget you
Even though time takes you away
I will not forget you
Even though nothing else remains”
– “I will not forget you”
Stay up to date on all of William Fitzsimmons new releases and upcoming performances by checking out his website, Instagram, Facebook and X.
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