Billy Dukes' music background includes jobs as music director and night DJ 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 two dogs, Daisy and Clementine, and their sons. In his free time, Billy enjoys playing and watching baseball, cycling and exploring nature.
Billy Dukes
Granger Smith Reveals New ‘River’ Tattoo
River died on June 6 after an accident at the family's home in Texas.
Josh Abbott Covers ‘Old Town Road’ at Elementary School + the Kids Freak Out!
We can't confirm it was the highlight of his set, but come on ...
ToC Critic’s Pick: Chris Stapleton, ‘From A Room Vol. 1′
Chris Stapleton delivers everything you expected on his new album From A Room Volume 1. He's a postman, dropping notes of blues, soul, pain and sorrow into your mailbox. This is a moody, nine-song album that reinforces all we know.
Randy Rogers Band, ‘Tequila Eyes’ [Listen]
There's something unfamiliar and arresting about hearing the lyrics of "Tequila Eyes" sung by a man. Randy Rogers Band's new single flips a relied-upon trope that demands a sober woman protect herself from the drunk man.
Casey Donahew, ‘Kiss Me’ [Listen]
Texas country hero Casey Donahew's "Kiss Me" is an infectious country melody that beats its way into your heart. The song's writers give a clinic on efficiency, proving great songs need not be complicated.
Teen Covers ‘Blue Christmas,’ Sounds Just Like Elvis Presley [Watch]
Elvis Presley lives! One teen's "Blue Christmas" cover proves the country and rock and roll legend is still alive -- inside of him, at least. Listen for yourself and decide if all other Presley impersonators should just retire right now.
Sundance Head’s Father Roy Head in Intensive Care
Sundance Head is asking for prayers as his father, Roy Head, remains in intensive care following surgery to repair a ruptured aorta.
Granger Smith’s Kids Are Reenacting His Stage Fall
Granger Smith has seen the videos. You've probably seen the videos of his stage fall in Sayreville, N. J., as well. Seemingly everyone, including his oldest two kids, has seen him step onto a wobbly monitor and come crashing down. Smith jokes that he can't get away from it.
Aaron Watson, ‘Outta Style’ [Listen]
Aaron Watson's "Outta Style" is pure country song with just the right amount of pop sensibility. In contrast to some of his more lonesome anthems the Cars-like intro howls some new direction. But by the end he's back in line.
ToC Critic’s Pick: Josh Abbott Band, ‘Amnesia’ [Listen]
Josh Abbott's heartache is good for country music. "Amnesia," the latest single from the Josh Abbott Band's Front Row Seat album, dives even deeper into the despair that comes after infidelity, divorce, etc ...