Andrew W.K Parents: Meet Gerald Litwack, Ellen Litwack

Andrew W.K., born Andrew Fetterly Wilkes-Krier, is a renowned American singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, record producer, and motivational speaker.

Born in Stanford, California, he spent his formative years in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he was nurtured by his parents, Gerald Litwack and Ellen Litwack.

Andrew’s father, Professor James E. Krier, is a distinguished legal scholar affiliated with the University of Michigan Law School. Notably, Professor Krier is a co-author of the widely utilized Dukeminier & Krier Property casebook, showcasing the family’s academic legacy.

Andrew’s mother, Wendy Wilkes, contributed to the nurturing environment that allowed his talents to flourish. The musical journey of Andrew W.K. commenced at a young age. At four years old, he embarked on piano lessons at the University of Michigan School of Music, laying the foundation for his future musical endeavors.

Family trips to Midnight Mass during his early years left an indelible mark on his love for music, shaping the artist he would become. Andrew’s affinity for music deepened throughout his upbringing, with his younger brother, Patrick, pursuing a career in golf, eventually becoming a golf coach in Michigan.

Andrew’s experiences at Greenhills School for middle school and later at the alternative Community High School from 1993 to 1997 played a crucial role in his musical education. During this time, he continued to study piano and keyboard, honing the skills that would define his musical identity.

In an interesting twist, Andrew W.K. acquired his moniker from an elementary school teacher who bestowed it upon him to distinguish him from his classmates, Andrew Cohen and Andrew Gilchrist. This distinctive name would go on to become synonymous with his dynamic and energetic persona in the world of music and entertainment.