Music Style Funky, roosty rock

Artist History The Hillcats are a Minneapolis, Minnesota-based band that has been together since 1995. With three songwriters in the band and four guys with very diverse musical interests, The Hillcats' music has been described as funky, rootsy rock with three part harmonies and infectious pop melodies. In 1996, the Minnesota Music Academy nominated the Hillcats for best new band. Four years and two CDs later, they are filling local clubs and making great music. Fronting The Hillcats is singer/songwriter/ guitarist Billy Johnson. The charismatic frontman is not only known for his soulful voice but also his stage acrobatics and hat collection. Billy was recently (April 2000) nominated by the Minnesota Music Academy for best male vocalist. In 1988, Billy met his college freshman roommate, Blake Nelson. After years of playing in various bands, they formed The Hillcats in 1995. Blake is a skilled and creative lead guitar player and a crafty singer/songwriter. Billy and Blake hooked up with drummer Randy Kramer who had moved back to town after spending a number of years playing jazz and funk on the West Coast. In 1997, a singer/songwriter Michael Nelson joined the band to play bass guitar. Michael is producing The Hillcats' upcoming album to be released in 2000.

Group Members Billy Johnson-Lead Vocals/Guitar, Blake Nelson-Lead Guitar/Vocals, Randy Kramer-Drums, Michael Nelson-Bass Guitar/Vocals

Press Reviews "The Hillcats haven't let roots rock bog them down or define them....(they) work with an array of influences that include pop, funk, jazz, folk, and well, roots rock. The band has Billy Johnson's high, keening vocals and an inexhaustible amount of jammability."-Vicki Gilmer-Minneapolis Star/Tribune

Location Minneapolis, MN - USA

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