Toronto singer-songwriter Katie Dauson returns with “Will You Won’t You,” a spirited, high-flying single sure to keep any listener moving. Always eager to explore the sounds of generations past, Dauson takes a valiant stab here at 1950s rockabilly. “Will You Won’t You” is a worthy homage to the bygone genre, a synthesis of modern energy and vintage flair. The single bursts with passion and leaves listeners hooked nodding along to the beat.

“Will You Won’t You” sees Dauson inspired by 1950s rockabilly, especially groups like The Crickets, and she echoes the 1970s revivalists like Blondie and George Thorogood who reimagined the style. Thorogood’s introduction of the saxophone to rockabilly instrumentation was particularly influential to Dauson. “I love George Thorogood’s guitar playing, and the fact that he added a saxophone player to his band in 1980,” Dauson explains. “Saxophone is such an important instrument in rock and roll and rockabilly, it really elevated his music.”

Produced by James Nickle, “Will You Won’t You” was recorded with care and intention that balance modern technique and Dauson’s retro influences. The rhythm guitar was recorded with a G&L Comanche, a unique selection chosen for the tonal character of its Z-coil pickups. Dauson also added a fuzz pedal to add a layer of modern grit into the mix. Careful choices like these are what make “Will You Won’t You” so effective in bringing rockabilly into the 21st century.

“Will You Won’t You” is lyrically quite simple, but if anything that serves to supplement the authenticity with which Dauson evokes rockabilly tradition. The straightforward lyrical structure makes the song feel etched in time, with a spirit apt for a milkshake parlor or dance hall. As Dauson croons “Will you won’t you love me too,” it’s hard to not be drawn back to the 50s alongside her. 

“Will You Won’t You” is a triumph in adaptation: not just because Katie Dauson is willing to dredge up a genre from the annals of music history, but because she does so with palpable passion for that sound. Dauson once again proves her merit as a genre shapeshifter, bringing rockabilly to life as only she can. The track has an air of spontaneity, giving it a raw and authentic feel sure to win listeners over.