It Wouldn't Be What It Is

The Singing Mechanic is Vincent Voss, an auto mechanic and songwriter originally from Seattle, and now residing in Neenah, Wisconsin. The Mechanic half of the name "Singing Mechanic" comes from Vince's background as an auto mechanic, specializing in (but not limited to VW Buses). The "Singing" half of the name has its beginnings in 1997, during Vince's tenure as keyboard player for the Damien Jurado band. Once he learned three chords, he began writing his own songs about cats, cars, and dying, and eventually began opening shows for Damien Jurado, Pedro the Lion and Roadside Monument. When people began asking his band name, he made the obvious choice, calling himself The Singing Mechanic.

In 2000, Vincent relocated to Neenah, Wisconsin to marry, start over, and write songs. In early 2001, Vince decided he needed to do something with his songs, so he called on an old friend from Seattle, Jonathon Ford (Unwed Sailor). Jonathon invited The Singing Mechanic to join Unwed Sailor for a tour. On March 1st, 2001 in Chicago, the first night of the tour, Vince met Daniel Smith (Danielson Famile). Dan invited Vince to NJ to record what would become "It Wouldn't Be What It Is," the debut album from The Singing Mechanic.