MEET THE BAND
A musical celebration of an artist whose catalog has over 33 top 40 hits, Billy Nation entertains audiences with a high energy authentic concert experience of Billy Joel classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Complete with Billy's signature grand piano, growling saxophone, rich harmonies, and audience engagement, Billy Nation captures Billy's stylistic range with ease from anthems like 'Piano Man' to rocking songs like 'You May Be Right' to beautiful ballads like 'Just the Way You Are.'
Led by pianist/vocalist, Adam Shapiro, Billy Nation delivers with great performances and passionate live shows that bring back the authentic spirit of the Piano Man’s music. Billy Nation is not just a cover band; the group aims to capture not only the music but also the look and the aesthetics of what makes Billy Joel such a special artist. This tribute act will make you feel like you are experiencing one of Billy Joel’s concerts in his prime, bringing back the magic of that one-of-a-kind era of music. The show offers more than just music: Billy Nation goes to great lengths to recreate the magical atmosphere of those early Billy Joel shows, down to the aesthetics and the energy on the stage. This is perfect for those who want to re-live those magical memories, or even enjoying that experience for the first time, like traveling back in time.
ADAM SHAPIRO ("BILLY")
Piano/Lead Vocals
Born in Bronx, NY and raised in South Florida, Adam channels Billy's energy, piano chops and vocal stylings. He also honors his late father - a NYC piano man - every time he steps on the stage. He has performed with Bo Diddley and opened for James Brown, Macy Gray, Ray Price, Leroy Parnell, and HueyLewis. Adam also holds a PhD in sociology.
JULES STEWART
Drums/Vocals
Jules is a San Diego-based drummer who tours globally and has played and recorded with a variety of artists, including Irish nu-folk singer Gráinne Hunt, Christian drag artist Flamy Grant, and accomplished Indie rocker C. Gibbs (Lucinda Blackbear, Christian Gibbs, He Arrived by Helicopter, Motherwell Johnston). She started playing drums when she was 8 years old, is a former D1 soccer player and physical therapist - and can’t believe her luck that she gets to tippity tap for a living.
JOE BIGHAM
Guitars/Vocals
Joe Bigham isn’t your mild-mannered tribute band guitarist. Armed with a doctorate in experimental musical practices (yes, that’s a real thing), he’s less a guitarist and more a multi-instrumental tornado. He’ll shred lead guitar, croon vocals, wrestle a 12-string and tame a mandolin, all while somehow managing to be our prop-man and stunt-man. With over 40 years of performance experience, ten toes (mostly) on the ground, two guitars, and the occasional rose thrown in for good measure, Joe’s here to deliver a Billy Joel show that’s less ‘cover’ and more ‘maximalist musical celebration.
ROSS RIZZO, JR
Saxophones, Percussion, Guitar & Vocals
Ross is a San Diego native, a multi-instrumentalist and top call musician who began his musical journey on guitar. He is also a fourth generation master vintner and sommelier at his family’s winery, the oldest in San Diego County. Known for his low cut shirts and blazing sax solos, Ross brings charisma and incredible musicality to the stage.
MILES CLOWMINZER
Bass/Vocals
Miles is a San Diego-born, multi-talented musician. Starting his journey as a drummer, he quickly realized that hitting things with sticks was just the beginning. Now, he’s a pro at bass and vocals too, proving that he’s not just good at making noise, but also good making music. Whether he’s behind the drum kit, strumming bass, or belting out a tune, Miles has a knack for turning any jam session into a full-blown rock ‘n’ roll circus. He’s the kind of guy who can play a three-piece band all by himself—if only he could figure out how to clone himself.
ANILH RAMESHWAR
Keyboards,Trumpet & Vocals
Anilh was born and raised in New York City. He began playing piano when he was three, and trumpet at age nine. After being kicked out of music school for stealing a piano, he became an active member of the NYC jazz scene, studying and performing with Sir Roland Hanna, Cecil Bridgewater, and Jimmy Heath. His musical influences include the obvious, the curious and the mysterious.
