Autism Digest Interview with Will Breman

Will Breman: Breaking Barriers as an Autistic Singer-Songwriter on The Voice

In the world of music, where raw talent meets personal stories, few artists shine as brightly as Will Breman, the first autistic individual to compete on The Voice. A singer-songwriter from Santa Barbara, California, Breman captured hearts during Season 17 of the hit NBC show, earning a spot on John Legend’s team and advancing all the way to the semi-finals. His journey was not just a testament to his musical prowess but also a powerful platform for raising awareness about autism. In this blog, we dive into Breman’s inspiring story, exploring how autism has shaped his songwriting, his experiences on The Voice, and his views on autism in the music industry.

A Musical Journey Rooted in Resilience

Will Breman’s love for music began at the tender age of three, when he first started singing under the guidance of his mother, who served as his initial voice coach. Growing up in Woodland Hills and later settling in Santa Barbara, Breman faced unique challenges as a person on the autism spectrum, specifically diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a high-functioning form of autism. In his introductory package on The Voice, he opened up about the difficulties of his childhood, including limited interests and struggles to make friends. “I’m on the autism spectrum, I had pretty limited interests,” he shared. “It was hard not having a lot of friends growing up. I got told by some people that I wouldn’t amount to much.”

Despite these challenges, music became Breman’s solace and a powerful means of self-expression. His parents, recognizing the therapeutic potential of music, encouraged his development through lessons and creative exploration. Breman taught himself to play the guitar and later mastered the art of live looping, a technique that allows him to layer beats and sounds to create the effect of a one-man band. This innovative approach, which he calls “Santa Barbara soul music,” reflects his analytical mindset—a trait he attributes to his autism. “My analytical outlook contributed to my current musical style,” he noted in an interview, highlighting how autism has been a driving force in his creative process.

Stealing the Show on The Voice

Breman’s journey on The Voice began with a standout blind audition that left the coaches in awe. Performing a soulful, unconventional rendition of the Spice Girls’ “Say You’ll Be There,” the 25-year-old singer-guitarist earned chair turns from both John Legend and Gwen Stefani. His performance was marked by infectious energy and a unique vocal style that showcased his versatility. When asked about his musical influences, Breman name-checked Legend, prompting an impromptu duet of Legend’s hit “Ordinary People.” The moment was electric, with Stefani rushing to the stage to congratulate them, and it solidified Breman’s decision to join Team Legend.

Throughout Season 17, Breman continued to impress with performances that highlighted his emotional depth and stage presence. One of his most memorable moments came during the Top 13 round, when he dedicated Jason Mraz’s “I Won’t Give Up” to his mother, who never wavered in her support after his Asperger’s diagnosis. The performance was a vulnerable display of his artistry, earning praise from Legend, who said, “I’m so proud of you, Will. The passion you showed—the emotion, the connection you showed to the song—it was really, really beautiful.” Though Breman was eliminated in the semi-finals, his impact on the show was undeniable, as he used his platform to challenge stereotypes and inspire others on the autism spectrum.

Autism’s Influence on Songwriting

For Breman, autism is not a limitation but a lens through which he views the world, deeply influencing his songwriting. He describes music as his “biggest solace,” a medium that allows him to express emotions that might otherwise remain locked inside. “Music became my biggest solace and helped me express my feelings in a way that would otherwise not come naturally to me,” he explained. His analytical nature, a common trait among those with autism, enables him to dissect melodies, rhythms, and lyrics with precision, crafting songs that resonate on a profound level.

Breman’s goal as a songwriter is to channel deep emotions that transcend words. His live-looping technique, which involves layering vocals and instrumentals in real-time, is a reflection of his ability to see patterns and create complex, harmonious compositions. This hyperfocus, often associated with autism, allows him to immerse himself fully in his craft, producing music that feels both innovative and deeply personal. In an interview with People, Breman emphasized the importance of his collaboration with Legend, who tailored his coaching to Breman’s analytical learning style. “He will go over everything with a fine-tooth comb and break it down into ways that I can understand,” Breman said. “That’s perfect for me, being on the autism spectrum and having Asperger’s syndrome, and just being analytical by nature.”

Breaking Stigmas in the Music Industry

Breman’s visibility on The Voice was a groundbreaking moment for autism representation in the music industry. By openly discussing his Asperger’s diagnosis, he aimed to dismantle stigmas and challenge the low expectations often placed on individuals with disabilities. “For me, it’s talking about the autism spectrum,” he told People. “It’s there to kind of break stigmas. I think the more we talk about it, the more we have an understanding of what’s going on.” His decision to share his story was not without challenges—some family members were unaware of his diagnosis until it aired on national television—but Breman saw it as an opportunity to give hope to others, particularly young people with autism.

In the music industry, where conformity can sometimes overshadow individuality, Breman’s presence was a breath of fresh air. He brought attention to the unique perspectives that neurodivergent artists can offer, from their ability to hyperfocus on creative details to their capacity for authentic storytelling. His performances, like his blue hair—a nod to the “Light It Up Blue” autism awareness campaign—served as a visual and artistic statement of pride in his identity. Breman’s journey also highlighted the need for greater inclusivity in the industry, paving the way for other autistic artists to share their talents without fear of judgment.

Autism as a Superpower

Breman’s story echoes the sentiments of other autistic musicians, like L. Rodgers, who appeared on The Voice in 2024 and called her autism a “superpower” that enhances her songwriting. For Breman, autism is similarly a source of strength, enabling him to connect with audiences through his authenticity and vulnerability. His performances on The Voice were not just about showcasing his vocal and instrumental talents but also about proving that individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive in high-pressure, creative environments.

Reflecting on his experience, Breman expressed gratitude for the platform The Voice provided. “At the beginning, all I wanted to do was to prove that I could turn a chair and maybe showcase a little bit of what I do on a national stage,” he told People. “But to see myself in the top 10 out of 40,000 people is just so insane.” His journey resonated with fans, particularly those on the autism spectrum, who flooded his social media with messages of support and shared their own stories.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Inspiration

Since his time on The Voice, Will Breman has continued to perform and advocate for autism awareness. In 2020, he performed at the Ascendigo Blue Aspen event, hosted by a nonprofit supporting individuals with autism, where he shared his message of reshaping expectations for those on the spectrum. As a full-time touring musician, he remains committed to creating music that reflects his unique perspective and inspires others to embrace their differences.

Breman’s story is a reminder that autism can be a powerful force in the arts, offering a fresh lens through which to view creativity and human connection. His journey on The Voice not only showcased his extraordinary talent but also challenged the music industry to embrace neurodiversity. As he continues to write, perform, and advocate, Will Breman is proving that with passion, resilience, and a touch of soul, the possibilities are limitless—on and off the stage.

What are your thoughts on Will Breman’s journey? How do you think the music industry can better support neurodivergent artists? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!