Legendary bassist and Musicians Hall of Fame inductee, Billy Cox, is synonymous with almost any reference to Jimi Hendrix and Rock-n-Roll history. From their army days, Billy would always have an extended friendship with Jimi Hendrix. The kindred spirits would have a musical chemistry that was nurtured over the years as both performed regularly as sidemen for the most prominent blues and R&B acts of the day. The bond between the two men would write a new chapter in music history.
Billy Cox was born in Wheeling, West Virginia. His father was a Baptist minister and teacher of mathematics, and his mother was a classical pianist. Billy was blessed with the best of both worlds. One world revolved around the strong intellectual discipline of his father and the other world revolved around the loving tenderness and sensitivity of his mother.
After high school, Billy enlisted in the army and joined one of the army’s finest, the 101st Airborne Division. It was here that Billy met and became friends with Jimi Hendrix. The friendship lasted a lifetime and was cemented with the harmony and rhythm that flowed between them.
Between 1962 and 1968, Billy played bass on the television programs, “The Beat” from Dallas, Texas and Nashville’s “Night Train.” Billy worked closely with Hoss Allen and John Richbourg of WLAC Radio. He has played behind music legends such as Sam Cooke, Slim Harpo, Joe Simon, Charlie Daniels, Rufus Thomas, Carla Thomas, Lou Rawls, Etta James, Jackie Wilson, and Little Richard. Billy also played bass on 50 percent of all black gospel music recorded in Nashville.
Billy's musical experience proved to be a catalyst for Jimi Hendrix as Jimi explored new musical territory. From Woodstock to the Isle of Wight, the history of American blues and Rock-n-Roll would be altered.
As drummer and co-founder of one of the best-selling bands of all time, Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood has established his place as an icon in rock ‘n roll music history, having sold 100 million records worldwide and performed for millions of fans across the globe. Known for creating a distinctive sound that endures today, the Grammy-award-winning artist was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. With countless chart-topping albums and singles, the band’s 1977 album Rumours remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Born in NYC, Bernard Fowler is one of the world’s most sought-after singers. He was a founding member of the Peech Boys, creating classic dance hits like 'Don’t Make Me Wait,' before going on to front, tour, and record with Herbie Hancock. He has since recorded and toured with countless others including Philip Glass, John Mayer, Gil Scott-Heron, Yoko Ono, Sly & Robbie, Boots Collins, Michael Bublé, and Michael Hutchence. He has released three solo albums including 'Friends with Privileges,' 'The Aura,' and 'Inside Out.'
In 1985, Fowler was brought on to record backing vocals on Mick Jagger’s first solo album, leading to a lasting relationship with The Rolling Stones. He has performed, recorded, produced, and written songs with the members of The Rolling Stones and has toured with them since 1988.
Charlie Sexton, a talented guitarist and singer, got his start in Austin, Texas, where he was mentored by blues legends like W.C. Clark and the Vaughan brothers. At the age of 16, he released his debut album 'Pictures for Pleasure,' which included the Top 20 hit 'Beat's So Lonely.' Charlie's career took off as a session guitarist, working with the Rolling Stones, Don Henley, and Bob Dylan, with whom he toured extensively.
Charlie has continued to release music, contribute to soundtracks, and perform with artists like Lucinda Williams and Shawn Colvin. His work with Bob Dylan has earned him critical acclaim, and he remains a sought-after musician in both live and studio settings.
Darryl Jones, born on the south side of Chicago, began his musical journey at a young age, inspired by his father and neighborhood musicians. He studied bass under the guidance of Angus Thomas and quickly became a prominent figure in the Chicago music scene. His career took a major leap when he joined Miles Davis, recording and touring with the jazz legend.
Jones has since performed with an array of notable artists, including Sting, Peter Gabriel, Madonna, Eric Clapton, and more. In 1993, he joined The Rolling Stones as their bassist, a position he has held ever since, contributing to their studio and live albums.
Ernie Isley, guitarist and songwriter for the Isley Brothers started playing drums at 12, playing his first live gig at 14 with his family. He is the bass player on “It’s Your Thing,” recorded at 16, the same age he bought his first guitar. He is a self-taught musician.
Between 1970 and 1972 he played rhythm and lead guitar on the Isley records including the songs “Ohio Machine Gun,” “Love The One You’re With,” “Work To Do,” and “It’s Too Late.” He is the guitarist on “Who’s That Lady” and “Summer Breeze.” Between 1973 and 1983, he played lead and rhythm guitars, drums, and was an active songwriter as part of the 3+3 Isley Brothers lineup, recording such notable albums as 3+3, Live It Up, The Heat Is On (featuring 'Fight The Power'), Harvest For The World, Go For Your Guns, and Showdown. He is the guitarist and songwriter on Caravan of Love with IJI. He continues to perform with his brother, Ronald. Ernie is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and is a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award winner.
Howard Levy, a two-time Grammy Award winner, is a master of the diatonic harmonica and an accomplished pianist, composer, and educator. He revolutionized the harmonica by developing techniques that allowed him to play it as a fully chromatic instrument, expanding its possibilities beyond traditional folk and blues into jazz, classical, and world music.
Levy has recorded with a wide range of artists, including Kenny Loggins, Dolly Parton, and Paul Simon. He is also known for his solo work and his collaborations with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. His contributions to music education include teaching at universities and conservatories and creating instructional materials for harmonica players.
Isaiah Sharkey, a native of Chicago, began his musical journey at the age of four, inspired by his father, a musician himself. Isaiah quickly became recognized as a young talent in the Chicago music scene, eventually recording and touring with gospel artists like Smokie Norful and Ronald Isley. His work on D'Angelo's Grammy-winning album 'Black Messiah' earned him his first Grammy Award.
Isaiah has worked with a diverse array of artists, including John Mayer, Keith Urban, Boyz II Men, and Lalah Hathaway. He continues to fuse his background in rock, gospel, jazz, R&B, blues, and funk to create an original sound with an unmistakable dose of soul.
Ivan Julian has been a celebrated musician and in-demand collaborator for more than four decades, with credits including work with The Clash, The Foundations, Matthew Sweet, and Richard Hell & The Voidoids. His solo album 'The Naked Flame' was acclaimed by critics and his latest album, 'Swing Your Lanterns,' continues to receive praise.
Ivan's influence on punk and rock music is enduring, and he remains a vital force in the music scene with his innovative approach and relentless creativity.
Ivan Neville, a standard bearer for the musical culture of New Orleans, brings the spirit of his city to life through his performances. Known for his work with his band Dumpstaphunk and his collaborations with Keith Richards and Bonnie Raitt, Ivan's music exudes the ambiance of New Orleans and reflects his emotional and spiritual journey.
His latest solo album 'Touch My Soul' is a love letter to New Orleans, blending tough-minded and tender elements to create a sound that is both unique and deeply rooted in the city's traditions.
Ron Artis II, a musical prodigy from Oahu, Hawaii, grew up in a creative and religious household that nurtured his talents from a young age. He mastered multiple instruments, but it was his piano and guitar skills that set him apart. Ron quickly gained recognition on the island and beyond, collaborating with artists like Mick Fleetwood, Jack Johnson, and Jake Shimabukuro.
Ron's debut album 'Soul Street' has received critical praise for its blend of Delta Blues, Gospel, Northern Soul, and R&B. His music reflects his philosophy of giving and connecting with his audience on a deep emotional level.
Ronnie Baker Brooks, the son of Chicago Blues legend Lonnie Brooks, is a force to be reckoned with in the blues world. He has performed with blues greats like BB King, Buddy Guy, and Albert Collins, as well as blues rock legend Eric Clapton. Ronnie has headlined major blues festivals around the world and recently teamed up with Chicago's Alligator Records to release his new album in October 2024, produced by Jim Gaines.
Wayne Baker Brooks, son of Chicago Blues legend Lonnie Brooks, is one of today's premier guitarists, known for his powerful vocals and electrifying guitar skills. His debut album 'Mystery' received widespread acclaim, blending blues, blues rock, soul, and funk. Wayne has shared the stage with blues legends and continues to push the boundaries of the genre with his innovative sound.
Nicholas Tremulis, a Chicago native, has had a prolific career as a musician, producer, and composer. Known as 'the music mayor of Chicago,' Nicholas has released 10 albums under his own name and collaborated with artists like Keith Richards, Bonnie Raitt, and Mavis Staples. His latest album 'Rarified World' reflects his resilience and creativity in the face of personal challenges.
Brian Santana, nephew of the legendary Carlos Santana, is a talented musician in his own right, sharing his passion for music with audiences everywhere. In his early twenties, Brian is already making a name for himself, performing classic hits and original songs with a deep connection to his musical heritage.
DJ Boomshot, a Bay Area transplant, has been a fixture in the Maui music scene for over 22 years. He has shared the stage with legendary artists like Lauryn Hill, New Order, and Damian Marley. Known for his dynamic mixing style, DJ Boomshot continues to captivate audiences with his eclectic sets.
Gail Swanson, a Maui-based singer/songwriter, has been performing for years in Hawaii and the U.S. Mainland. Originally from the Chicago area, Gail moved to Maui in 1984 and has played professionally on the island ever since. She has opened for many great artists and continues to focus on playing special shows and benefits, especially for the people on Maui affected by the wildfire.
Gretchen Rhodes is an American singer/songwriter known for her powerful blend of soulful blues and rock. She has toured extensively with Dave Mason and Steve Cropper and has fronted the Mick Fleetwood Band for the last seventeen years. Gretchen continues to perform live and release new music, with a new album planned for release in Spring 2024.
Jason Arcilla, known for his journey on NBC’s The Voice Season 24, is a dynamic artist with a unique sound that blends R&B, reggae, and island surf rock. Based in Maui, Jason continues to develop his distinctive style and captivate audiences with his performances.
Marty Dread, known as Hawaii's Reggae Ambassador, has performed at venues throughout the Hawaiian Islands and around the world. With 21 albums to his name, Marty has shared the stage with Willie Nelson and performed at major festivals. He continues to be a pioneering figure in Hawaii's reggae scene.
Naiwi Teruya & Kealii Lum are a dynamic musical duo from Hawaii, known for their captivating performances that blend traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary influences.
Paul West, a Texas-born musician, has made a name for himself with his fusion of country and 70s folk rock. Now based in Las Vegas, Paul continues to captivate audiences with his soulful performances and storytelling through music.
Roger Kaholokula P. McKinley is a world-class entertainer and freestyle bagpiper with a deep connection to his Scottish heritage. Roger has performed across the globe, blending traditional Celtic tunes with contemporary music in his unique style.
Sheryl Renee, known as the 'Lady with the Golden Voice,' is a versatile artist with a rich career in the entertainment industry. After years of performing on Maui, Sheryl made the island her home in 2022 and continues to contribute to the local music scene with her powerful voice and captivating performances.