Artist Quote:
"I've been using Reunion Blues since my first year at Berklee 1980 and there's no other bags that have come close to Reunion Blues."
Billy's big break came when he landed a European touring gig with Walter Davis Jr. After the tour with Davis, word spread and the calls began to come. Donald Byrd, Ahmad Jamal and Dianne Reeves were some of the first artists who hired Billy for their tours. "I was with Dianne for seven years and playing in her band helped introduce me to all of the major festivals both here and in Europe. We played venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, Apollo Theater, North Sea, and Montreux." From this exposure, Billy caught the attention of George Duke, Najee, Freddie Jackson, Bob James and the calls kept coming.
Eventually Dave Holland invited Billy to join his quintet. As the drummer for the Dave Holland Quintet, he brought an element of funk to the band, creating a new sound for them and catapulting them into a premiere group in jazz. Critics frequently lauded his performances, particularly his expertise with odd meters. He received a Grammy for his work with Dave Holland and has received several nominations. Billy then joined Chris Botti's band. Chris had just landed an opening spot for Sting's tour which enabled Billy to play to a more diverse audience. Chris always allowed Billy the opportunity to stretch musically and he brought his element of funk and odd meters to Chris' band.
Billy continues to perform with Chris Botti as well as with his band, Billy Kilson's BK Groove.
