When We Was Young
When We Was Young (WWWY) is a Toronto-based indie rock band blending roots-rock grit, Canadiana storytelling and melodic alternative rock into songs that celebrate life's victories, missteps and everything in between.
Formed in 2009, the band has built a reputation for honest songwriting, memorable hooks and a catalogue that balances introspection with a healthy sense of humour. Their music draws inspiration from dusty highways, late-night conversations and the people we meet while trying to make sense of it all, resulting in songs that feel both personal and universal.
Today, WWWY features Christopher Pacella (vocals, rhythm guitar), Ben Elling (bass, backing vocals), David Rudoler (guitar), Jorge Watty (guitar, backing vocals), and Nathan Wynes (drums). Together, the five-piece has developed a diverse catalogue of original music that ranges from reflective and heartfelt to energetic and anthemic.
The band's latest material showcases their evolution as songwriters while remaining rooted in the authenticity that has always defined their sound. Their upcoming EP, All My Bad Decisions, led by the single "All You Want To Do Is Kill," explores flawed characters, difficult choices and the strange wisdom that can emerge from our worst ideas.
Over the years, WWWY has performed throughout Toronto and beyond, appearing at venues including The Horseshoe Tavern, The El Mocambo, Lee’s Palace, Cameron House and Junction Underground along with outdoor festivals like Open Tuning Toronto, McMurray Avenue Street Festival and the Bracebridge 150th Anniversary Celebration. The band proudly supports causes that matter to them, including Daily Bread Food Bank, Oxfam, United Way and MusicCounts.
At its heart, When We Was Young makes music for people who appreciate honest stories, imperfect characters and songs that stay with you long after the last note fades.
“I love your music! It really touched me and I kept saying, 'I can't believe this band isn't being played on the radio and a record label hasn't signed them up!'”
Elaine Polny
Former Executive Marketing Director, Waking Life Studios
Band Members
Frontman delivering heartfelt gritty melodies and driving rhythm acoustic/electric guitar work.
Laying down the deep melodic grooves and driving bottom-end pulse of the WWWY sound.
Crafting twangy riffs, soulful leads, and authentic roots-rock guitar hooks.
Adding rich layered guitars and vocal harmonies that round out the five-piece sound.
The dynamic backbeat powerhouse keeping every live room locked in tight since day one.