Will Swan’s Musical Journey: From Dance Gavin Dance to Blue Swan Records
Will Swan has carved out a name as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists in the post-hardcore and progressive rock scenes. As the founding guitarist of Dance Gavin Dance and the mastermind behind Blue Swan Records, Swan’s career reflects a blend of experimental artistry, entrepreneurial vision, and a commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
? Early Life and Introduction to Music
Born in Sacramento, California, Will Swan grew up surrounded by diverse musical influences—from classic rock to punk and funk. By his teens, he had developed a keen interest in guitar playing, eventually honing a unique style that would later define the sonic identity of his bands. Rather than sticking to traditional rock techniques, Swan leaned into technical riffs, tapping, jazzy chord progressions, and unpredictable time signatures, all trademarks of his genre-blending sound.
? Formation of Dance Gavin Dance
In 2005, Will Swan co-founded Dance Gavin Dance (DGD) alongside drummer Matt Mingus and bassist Eric Lodge. The band quickly distinguished itself in the post-hardcore and experimental rock scenes thanks to Swan’s intricate guitar work and the dynamic interplay between clean and unclean vocals.
Key milestones in DGD’s career include:
- Debut Album – Downtown Battle Mountain (2007): Launched DGD into the spotlight, featuring Jonny Craig on clean vocals.
- Lineup Changes: Despite frequent vocalist changes, Swan remained the creative anchor of the band.
- Consistent Innovation: Albums like Acceptance Speech (2013), Mothership (2016), and Afterburner (2020) showcased the band’s growth while maintaining its signature experimental sound.
Swan’s guitar playing is central to the band’s identity, often described as both chaotic and melodic—a paradox that DGD fans have come to love.
? Expanding Horizons: Other Projects
Will Swan didn’t limit himself to Dance Gavin Dance. Over the years, he joined or formed several side projects, broadening his musical palette:
- Secret Band: A heavier, rawer outlet for Swan and other DGD members.
- Sianvar (2013–2019): A progressive supergroup featuring members of A Lot Like Birds, Hail the Sun, and Stolas. Sianvar allowed Swan to experiment further with progressive time signatures and abstract songwriting.
- Royal Coda: Although not a full-time member, Swan collaborated with this band under his label, helping them gain traction in the post-hardcore scene.
Each of these projects illustrates Swan’s refusal to be pigeonholed and his desire to experiment across genres.
?? Founding Blue Swan Records
In 2013, Swan launched Blue Swan Records, an independent label aimed at supporting experimental and progressive bands in the post-hardcore and rock genres. The label became a hub for artists who, like Swan, didn’t fit neatly into mainstream categories.
Notable acts signed to Blue Swan Records include:
- Hail the Sun
- Stolas
- Royal Coda
- Sianvar
- Wolf & Bear
Blue Swan Records gave these bands a platform for creative freedom while also fostering a sense of community. Swan’s leadership as a label head has earned him praise for helping shape a unique “Blue Swan” sound—characterized by technical guitar work, soaring vocals, and math-rock influences.
? Legacy and Influence
Will Swan is more than just a guitarist—he’s a musical architect. His influence spans:
- Guitar technique: Known for using tap harmonics, finger tapping, and syncopated rhythm, Swan has inspired a generation of guitarists to explore outside the box.
- Genre innovation: He helped redefine post-hardcore by integrating elements of funk, jazz, and progressive rock into an already eclectic genre.
- Scene building: Through Blue Swan Records, he has elevated countless emerging artists, making a lasting mark on alternative music.
? Challenges and Evolution
Like many artists, Swan’s journey has included its share of obstacles. Dance Gavin Dance has dealt with public controversies, lineup instability, and changes in musical trends. Yet, Swan has remained steadfast, guiding the band through every transition with resilience and creative direction.
His ability to evolve without abandoning his musical roots is a key reason why Dance Gavin Dance continues to thrive nearly two decades after its formation.
? What’s Next for Will Swan?
As of 2025, Swan continues to tour with Dance Gavin Dance, release new music, and expand the reach of Blue Swan Records. Rumors of new collaborations and a potential solo project have fans eagerly watching for his next move.
Given his track record, it’s clear that Will Swan will remain a driving force in progressive and experimental rock—not just as a performer, but as a visionary shaping the genre’s future.
Final Thoughts
Will Swan’s musical journey—from co-founding Dance Gavin Dance to launching Blue Swan Records—is a story of creative persistence and genre-defying artistry. His legacy is already cemented in the post-hardcore world, but if history is any indication, Swan is just getting started.
