Wil Russell
When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to?
I went to Princethorpe from 2002 to 2007.
Bit of background, where you live, what you do for a living
I am a 25 year old session guitarist and guitar teacher living in Leamington Spa. I’m also the singer and guitarist in the alt rock band, Luna Kiss.
What was the school like in your day?
Princethorpe College was a lot smaller! It was a well balanced place to grow up, full of activities for both academic and creative people.
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
The teachers I had were very encouraging and made you believe that you were capable of achieving your best. Being both a musician and member of a band requires a lot of determination and self believe. Some of which was grown out of being at Princethorpe.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
I grew my hair long at Princethorpe as it was "the thing to do". Looking back I would definitely tell my teenage self to get a hair cut.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
I get influenced by a lot of people who through their determination and drive have become successful. I wouldn't say I have any people in particular. Musically the first influential guitarist I came across was David Gilmour from Pink Floyd.
What keeps you awake at night?
I'm a pretty sound sleeper to be fair. Probably my Beagle!
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
We played a huge festival in Loreley, Germany last year in an amphitheatre. As a band we spend a lot of time in grinding away to get to "the next stage". Playing that gig was a great moment and a huge achievement for myself and the rest of a Luna Kiss.
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Ben and Jerrys Ice Cream. Any flavour, any time, any where.
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
It's roast dinner all the way!
What is your favourite TV Show and why?
The saddest guilty pleasure. Home and Away. Yes the acting isn't world class, and the sets a bit wobbly but it always looks like summer on every episode and the beaches look epic!
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
On the road. There is nothing better than spending two weeks driving around in a van playing shows every day with your best pals.
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
The spicey sausage pasta at lunch time and the amazing pastry bakes at the end of the day. Chicken and mushroom bake was a highlight moment of each day.
Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom?
I still stay in touch with a few people. James Pedley is the drummer in the band. Harvey Broadbent who now runs Positive Outlook clothing. He has also worked on some Luna Kiss designs. By family obligation both my brother and sister who are also Old Princethorpians.
Is there anyone you would like to track down?
Mrs Francis my music teacher was very encouraging and set me on the path to where I am today.
Image shows from left to right: Chris Butler (guitars), OP James Pedley (drums), OP Wil Russell (vocals/guitars) and Ross Morris (bass)
The band website is: www.lunakiss.co.uk
Facebook Page is: www.facebook.com/LunaKissBandUK
Twitter is: @LunaKissBand https://twitter.com/LunaKissBand
