Billy Sheehan
Billy Sheehan
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
William Lee "Billy" Sheehan is the bassist for the progressive rock band Mr. Big.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on March 19, 1956, in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, USA - still active in music as of my knowledge cutoff.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American musician, songwriter, and record producer known primarily for his work with the rock band Mr. Big.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a musical family, Sheehan started playing bass at age 13. His early influences included Paul McCartney, John Entwistle (The Who), and Larry Graham (Sly and the Family Stone). After studying music at New York's State University, Sheehan joined various bands throughout the late 1970s before joining Pat Travers' band in 1981.
Major Accomplishments
Sheehan is best known for his work with Mr. Big, which formed in 1988 and achieved significant commercial success during their peak years (1990-2009). Their hits "To Be with You," "Justify My Love," and "Wild World" showcased Sheehan's melodic bass playing style, a departure from the more traditional, percussive approach of many bassists. Sheehan has also contributed to numerous other projects, including sessions for artists like Steve Vai, Tony MacAlpine, and Paul Gilbert.
Notable Works or Actions
Sheehan was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's Guitar Center Rock Walk (2008). He released a solo album, "Subject," in 1991. Additionally, Sheehan co-founded the band Niacin with keyboardist Leland Sklar and drummer Dennis Chambers.
Impact and Legacy
Sheehan has been credited as one of the most influential bassists of all time by publications such as Rolling Stone and Guitar World magazines. His innovative playing style has inspired a new generation of musicians, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the instrument.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Billy Sheehan's distinctive approach to the bass guitar and his work with Mr. Big have contributed significantly to the band's enduring popularity. His legacy extends beyond music as well; he has been recognized for his contributions to the music education community, often speaking at clinics and workshops.
Sheehan continues to create new content in various capacities.
Quotes by Billy Sheehan
I’m very honored and thankful if someone says something nice about my playing, but in general I’m very critical of what I do.
As far as current inspiration, I’m listenting to a lot of flamenco, because the techniques used for flamenco can be adapted to playing bass.
I didn’t follow the standard rules of bass playing, and many musicians on many different instruments who became noteworthy for their unique or particular style did a very similar thing.
Be honest with yourself and the way you act when you hear music. That way, when people watch, they’ll see something from your heart and soul, and as a result will communicate your feeling and thought much better.
I've seen it happen when the first rock bands played in the 60s, and they played simple music, and got more complicated and complex as they moved on.
