Tune In, Turn On
Since moving back East in 2022, it’s been my quest to discover and write about as many Shore-based musicians as possible. One musician who stood out for his mastery of the three P’s — poise, professionalism and performance — is Will Keiter.
I first met Will in 2024, when he was playing bass and saxophone for the local blues-rock trio Twisted Livin’ at one of local photographer John Loreaux’s fabulous summer parties. John and Cami throw great soirées; if you know, you know.
I’ve since gotten to know him better. Working as Twisted Livin’s publicist gave me greater access, and I was so impressed that I decided to interview Keiter, 23. But first, here is some praise from others who know and have worked with Will:
“Whether you’re into hard-rocking blues or the funky stuff, Will Keiter has you covered. His ecstatic bass lines with Twisted Livin’ and tasty solos with Plaid Salmon Horns keep the dance floors crowded. Someone needs to clone this dude. There aren’t enough of him to go around,” said Jim Tuohy, a local patron of the arts and music promoter.
“Working with Will was a pleasure. He put a lot of hard work into his craft and became a tremendous bass player. We built a true connection musically; his passion and enthusiasm for getting things done the right way were very inspiring. He’s a great human and great friend,” said Denny Shiffler, guitarist and vocalist for Twisted Livin’.
“I started playing trumpet because of the music I was exposed to growing up. Now, all my musical influences come from my friends and especially my brother, Will, whom I hold in high regard as a playing role model, not just because of our relationship,” said P.J. Keiter, trumpet player for Plaid Salmon.
DD: You recently posted on social media that Twisted Livin’ is breaking up and that you are moving on to new adventures, including returning to school. Can you walk us through how all of this happened?
WK: Unfortunately, Twisted Livin’ is coming to an end after a strong five-year run. It was a long time coming, as I knew I had to begin my teaching internship soon. Playing full time in a band that requires a daily commitment was only going to be part of my life for so long and isn’t conducive to my lifestyle as a student and aspiring teacher. I’ll still play with my band Plaid Salmon when I have time. I also have some dates booked on both bass guitar and saxophone with the Billy Walton Band this fall!
DD: I’m guessing you come from a musical family. Am I correct?
WK: Yes! Both of our parents played instruments in their high school bands. Our dad played clarinet, and our mom played flute in a marching band. Most of our musical influence comes from listening to their music around the house as children.
DD: Which instrument did you take up and learn first, saxophone or bass guitar?
WK: First, I was a saxophone player. I played alto saxophone in the school band. Then, in high school, I played alto sax in the jazz band and marching band. I learned bass guitar after meeting the guys in Twisted Livin’. We needed a bass player, and I was happy to step up.
DD: Do you see yourself being part of another band in the future, either full or part time?
WK: I definitely see myself being a part-time member of several groups. I’ll never give up playing live. It’s just that the number of shows we were playing isn’t something I can continue. I still play jazz. I have a duo with my friend Luke Nokes, a pianist from Stockton. I’m in an eight-piece local party band called Plaid Salmon, and I have several dates booked with the Billy Walton Band this fall.
DD: Who are some of the people in the Jersey Shore music community who have helped or influenced your music career?
WK: A huge shoutout to John Loreaux. Through his influence and amazing talent in photography, he has elevated my local music career to a level that wouldn’t have been possible without him. I’d also like to thank Carmen Marotta for having Twisted Livin’ perform at both his Concerts on the Beach in Somers Point and Boardwalk concerts in Atlantic City through Tony Mart Presents. I’d also like to give a huge thank-you to my mother, Laura, who has not only helped keep me organized but has also been a major part of my support system throughout my live music career.
Will and Twisted Livin’ will perform at Hard Rock Cafe from 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Sept. 19.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com
