I can't think of a better way to begin my " In the Spotlight Series" than to tell you all about my good friend
Bill Hellewell
I had the privilege of meeting Bill many years ago, with his contagious smile and kind demeanor we instantly became friends, so I am honored to tell you his story.
Bill is a long time veteran of the Nova Scotia music scene, this multi talented artist has been playing a variety of instruments since the young age of 12 years.
His musical gifts include bass ,guitar, keyboards, and harmonica along with amazing vocals!
he stepped on stage for his first paid gig at the age of 13, his musical destiny was chosen!
Through the years Bill has played with various original and cover bands from Ontario to Prince Edward Island, finally settling in Nova Scotia in the 1979.
After a seven year hiatus from the music business, Bill restarted his music career in 1993 with a F.A.C.T.O.R. (Socan) New Talent Award for his two songs 2000 Miles Away and Sometimes Roses Have Thorns
Balancing a "day gig" and music, Bill joined the band Neon Country, where his music drew the attention of a CTV producer in Halifax.
The band was invited to record 3 videos for the nationally broadcast show "Up & Coming" in 1995
Wanting to pursue continued promotion of his original material, Bill formed the Southern Justice Band in 1996, the new band quickly became local favourites for over an 8 year period finally disbanding in 2000.
During that time Southern Justice released 2 albums "Southern Exposure" in 1998 and "The Drifter"in
2002. The band reformed as a trio and continued their musical path until 2005.
Bill later joined another trio band called Acoustic Soul with good friends Dave Goyetche and Rob Filek, the music genre included rock, country and blues, the band played the local scene until they disbanded in 2008
In 2008 Bill joined The Low Rider Band where he remains today! Bill being a very important part of the backbone of the band, he rocks out weekly with his com-padres Myles Hatt and Ian McLaws.
Whether he is playing bass, acoustic guitar, harmonica or belting out a phenomenal tune for Bill it always has been and always will be about making music!
The Low Rider Band
Whether Bill is wearing the hat of an award winning songwriter, studio musician or rocking out on bass and vocals, Bill has music in his soul and I for one am proud to call him my friend!
Bill Hellewell
I wish you continued success in your musical journey Bill, and also in your up coming marriage to your beautiful soul mate Gail Charland!
Big hugs, Kat ♥
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