Billy Sheehan began his music career in the 70's in Buffalo, NY with some friends in a band called "Talas" which played "a zillion gigs" says Sheehan, opening for such acts as Van Halen which later led to David Lee Roth calling Sheehan to work with him on the David Lee Roth solo projects and tour. After "Eat 'Em & Smile," and the tour with Dave, Steve Vai, Greg Bissonette, and Brett Tugglee, the "Skyscraper" album was then recorded. Then after that Sheehan joined a band called Mr. Big, which produced a Platinum album called "Lean Into It" which had several hits. Later Mr. Big broke up, and Sheehan went on to create a side project called Niacin, an improvisational fusion band with Dennis Chambers on drums and John Novello on Hammond B3. Niacin is still going strong and is on their 5th album called "Organik." Billy Sheehan's first solo project was in 2002 and was called "Compression," signed under Steve Vai's "Favored Nations" label. Sheehan's last solo release was last year.. "Cosmos Troubadour." Now recently touring with Steve Vai in support of their latest release, "Real Illusions" (CBS/Sony) - Billy Sheehan is still rockin' and still an important part of music history... The following is an interview with Billy Sheehan by AngelDevil...


AngelDevil: Hi Billy, how are you? Welcome to MUEN Magazine.

Billy Sheehan: Very kind of you to have me!

AngelDevil: Let�s talk about some news. You are currently working with Tony MacAlpine and Virgil Donati, does this mean that you will be making an album together?

Billy Sheehan: It's a side project. Just for fun. Myself, Tony & Virgil have a lot of other things we do with other bands and such, so when we get time to go play as The Devil's Slingshot --we do! It's a blast & the shows are a riot. We will do a record too!

AngelDevil: How did this collaboration come about?

Billy Sheehan: Tony & Virgil played together a lot. I played with Virgil on a few Steve tours. I did Tony's first record (a long time ago!) and we did a bunch of Steve tours. We all live in LA.

AngelDevil: What are you hoping will happen with this project? What are your expectations?

Billy Sheehan: Lots of sweat! It's tough stuff to play live. We take a lot of chances. Anything can happen up there!

AngelDevil: Do you focus more on technology when you are recording in the studio, or does inspiration and being spontanious over-rule the technology?

Billy Sheehan: Art first & foremost. Always.

AngelDevil: Your European tour with Tony and Virgil is beginning in October... how long of a tour will this be, and where do you think will be the best shows?

Billy Sheehan: In Italy! And London... And Istanbul. Oh--and Germany! Actually, everywhere! We'll be out for two months SOLID, with barely a day off. I like it like that.

AngelDevil: What songs are the songs you enjoy playing the most live on these tours? Which songs do you feel were the most inspiring when composing, or simply which are your best songs written, and why?

Billy Sheehan: Hard to say --- I don't put that much thought into it -- I just play & let it happen. Each song is different every night for me.

AngelDevil: I know you love to be connected with other musicians. Try to tell me some names of female artists you think are pretty good, and which ones you'd most like to perform with if the opportunity were there?

Billy Sheehan: ...Imogen Heap. Very cool. There's a girl named Sebnem in Turkey who is very unique. Plus I know a punk rock bass player in LA who is awesome named Mandy.

AngelDevil: Will it be possible to see you play with Paco DeLucia, one of the greatest flamenco guitar player?

Billy Sheehan: I sure hope I can someday. He's my favorite guitarist. What a treasure.

AngelDevil: What do you remember about the 80�s? Do you wish it were still like that, or are you happy with contemporary music today?

Billy Sheehan: The '80's were cool. So were the 60's & 70's! I like music from all times. I like lots of stuff now. Modern things. I'm a fan of so much stuff.

AngelDevil: You are a veteran of the music scene, from your point of view how have you seen the music business change over the years?

Billy Sheehan: A lot & not at all! If you get out & get in a band & start to play -- all things will work themselves out. It's always been that way. Playing live is super important, and touring is so vital.

AngelDevil: What has the music world taught you?

Billy Sheehan: Everything I know! About art... About dealing with people. About cultures all over the world. It's a common language for all mankind. I'm still learning too!

AngelDevil: How much time do you put into myspace and the internet with regards to your musical endeavors?

Billy Sheehan: As much as possible, without taking away too much time from playing. I'm glad to be in touch with so many people. And yes, it's really me.

AngelDevil: How do you spend your free time? ...well, if you have it, haha!

Billy Sheehan: I have none & I'm glad! I'm always up to something. I'm always working on something.

AngelDevil: Your life�s though...?

Billy Sheehan: Art is the most important part of life, and music is the greatest art form.

AngelDevil: Ok Billy, we�re done, thank you so much for your availability. Do you wanna tell us something more?

Billy Sheehan: I'm working on my new solo CD now -- my third one. It will be out early next year. I'll do my absolute best -- And I hope you like it! Much Love, Billy

AngelDevil