Billy Vera

Billy Vera is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and music historian known for his contributions to the R&B, soul, and rock music genres. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Beginnings: Billy Vera was born William McCord on May 28, 1944, in Riverside, California. He developed a passion for music at an early age and began performing in bands during his teenage years. Vera's early exposure to rhythm and blues music and his natural talent as a vocalist and musician laid the foundation for his future career in the music industry.

2. Success as a Singer and Songwriter: In the 1960s and 1970s, Billy Vera achieved success as a singer and songwriter, both as a solo artist and as part of the band Billy Vera & The Beaters. One of his most notable hits is the song "At This Moment", which originally gained popularity in the 1980s after being featured on the television show "Family Ties". The song later became a chart-topping success after being re-released in 1987, earning Vera widespread acclaim and recognition as a singer-songwriter.

3. Collaborations and Contributions: Throughout his career, Billy Vera has collaborated with numerous artists and musicians, contributing his songwriting and vocal talents to a wide range of projects. He has worked with artists such as Lou Rawls, Bonnie Raitt, and Dolly Parton, among others. Vera's distinctive voice and soulful delivery have made him a sought-after collaborator in the music industry, and his contributions to various recording sessions and projects have earned him respect and admiration from his peers.

4. Acting Career: In addition to his music career, Billy Vera has also pursued acting, appearing in film, television, and theater productions. He has had roles in movies such as "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" and television shows like "Baywatch" and "The King of Queens". Vera's acting credits showcase his versatility as a performer and his ability to excel in different artistic mediums.

5. Music Historian and Author: Billy Vera is also known for his passion for music history and his contributions as an author and music historian. He has written several books on the history of rhythm and blues music, including "Rip It Up: The Specialty Records Story" and "Harlem to Hollywood: My Two Worlds". Vera's work as a music historian has helped preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of R&B and soul music, ensuring that future generations continue to appreciate and learn from this important musical tradition.