Billy Dukes

Billy Dukes is a Senior Editor and Executive Producer at Taste of Country, where he has over 11,000 articles to his name. His media background includes jobs as music director at WQDR 94.7 in Raleigh, N.C.; writer for Recoil Magazine, a monthly out of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and writer for the Kalamazoo Gazette in Kalamazoo, Mich. The Western Michigan University graduate followed a girl to Raleigh in 2006 and wisely married her one year later. In 2014, they moved to Nashville, where they now live with their three sons. In his free time, Billy enjoys playing and watching baseball, cycling and home renovation.

When Eddie Van Halen Served as Michael Jackson’s Secret Sideman

He said he did the solo on the third radio single from 'Thriller' for free.

41 Years Ago: Berry Oakley of the Allman Brothers Band Dies

Former Allman Brothers Band guitarist Dickey Betts is always quick to celebrate the importance of Berry Oakley's contributions to the legendary southern rock band. Before Oakley died on Nov. 11, 1972, he was responsible for some of the most iconic Allman riffs, including the opening of 'Whipping Post.' He's remembered for the way he died more often than the way he lived, and Betts works to fix tha

Willie Nelson Stars Alongside Harry Connick, Jr. in ‘Angels Sing’ Christmas Movie Clip – Exclusive Premiere

Willie Nelson plays a mysterious character named Nick in one of the year's more anticipated Christmas movies. 'Angels Sing' will be available on demand and in select theaters beginning Nov. 1. Watch the country legend star alongside Harry Connick, Jr. in this clip, premiering exclusively on Taste of Country.

Jon Bon Jovi Gives Bride Surprise of Her Life

One Bon Jovi fan made it her mission to convince Jon Bon Jovi to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day, and it worked! The singer showed up to escort Branka Delic to her groom during a ceremony at the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas on Saturday. The singer offered picture proof of the accident.

Mick Taylor to Join Ronnie Wood at Bluesfest

The Ronnie Wood Band's finale at BluesFest in London next month will include an appearance by Mick Taylor, who held down the guitar-player role in the Rolling Stone before Wood replaced him in 1975. Wood and group will pay tribute to the late Jimmy Reed during their Nov. 1 set at the Royal Albert Hall, where BluesFest runs from Oct. 29-Nov. 1.

Tico Torres Returns to Bon Jovi Tour

After dual surgeries, Bon Jovi drummer Tico Torres is back with the band he's been a part of for 30 years. The 59-year-old Torres returned on Oct. 9 for the group's show in Fresno, Calif., playing a two-hour-plus concert for fans at the Save Mart Center.

Grateful Dead Beer’s Secret Ingredient Is Something Very Grateful Deady

A new Grateful Dead beer will be hitting the market this fall. The band worked with Dogfish Head Craft Brewery to create American Beauty, a "bold pale ale made with 100 percent U.S.-grown ingredients." But it took a suggestion from a fan to get the mix just right.

Neal Schon to Marry Michaele Salahi in December

Journey guitarist Neal Schon and reality-TV star Michaele Salahi have set a wedding date. The couple -- who have been dating for two years -- will marry on Dec. 15 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

Boston to Release First Album in 11 Years

Boston will reportedly release their first album since 2002 this fall. It's the sixth from the classic band, and the first to be released since singer Brad Delp committed suicide in 2007.

Alice Cooper in Talks to Join ‘Spider-Man’ Musical

If all goes according to plan, Alice Cooper will be wearing a Green Goblin costume by the new year. The rocker is in talks to join the cast of 'Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark,' the pricey New York musical that has been plagued by injuries, lawsuits and poor reviews since it opened.

Alice Cooper, Kiss and Vince Neil to Perform at Rock Academy Benefit

Almost eight months after opening its doors with a superstar week of rock music, the Brennan Rock & Roll Academy is lining up more talent to raise money for the music school. Alice Cooper and Kiss will be there again, as will Vince Neil, Rob Zombie and others.

The Doors Announce Archival ‘R-Evolution’ DVD

Early television appearances, music films and rare footage will make up the bulk of the Doors' 'R-Evolution' DVD, which will be released later this year. The band just announced the project, which will also be available as a deluxe edition featuring a 40-page book of lyrics and photos.