The Ledge - Legendary guitarist to play at Bears

Mar. 30, 2011

Growing up in the original rock 'n' roll scene, Billy Burnette knew from the get-go that his life would revolve around the music industry.

From age 7, Burnette has pushed the envelope as a recording artist — solo and collaborative.
As a songwriter, Burnette has had his songs recorded not only by The Zoo and Fleetwood Mac, but by Roy Orbison, Tammy Wynette, Alan Jackson, Ray Charles, Bonnie Raitt, Jerry Lee Lewis, Rod Stewart, Gregg Allman, the Everly Brothers, Loretta Lynn, Charley Pride and Ringo Starr — and that's just naming a few.
But before appearing at Bear's, Burnette took some time out from being on the road to answer a few questions.

Question: What inspired you to begin your music career?
Answer: I actually grew up in it. My dad was Dorsey and my uncle was Johney Burnette of the rock 'n' roll trio that had a major influence on Elvis, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, Rick Nelson and many others. They were the original pioneers of rockabilly, in fact they wrote the song 'Rockabilly Boogie' in 1953 for my cousin Rocky and myself right after we were born, hence the name 'rockabilly.' So I had no choice! I did my first record in 1960 for Dot records.

Q: How was working with The Zoo and Fleetwood Mac?
A: It was fantastic. At the time when I joined they were my favorite band. I spent nearly 10 years with them.

Q: Any memorable moments?
A: All of it.

Q: What kind of sound does your new album, "Rock and Roll With It," carry?
A: It's a rock 'n' roll record with a touch of yesterday and today.

Q: How was touring with Bob Dylan?
A: That was amazing. What can you say, he's Bob Dylan.

Q: What songwriters and musicians have inspired you as an artist?
A: First off, my dad; Elvis, the Beatles, Stones, Bob Dylan, Beach Boys, Ray Charles, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Marvin Gaye, and so many others. I love music.

http://www.shreveporttimes.com/artic...ist-play-Bears