Billy Grima is a country singer who recently released the album, Sugar and Cream; here is a link to his website:
Q: When did you start playing guitar?
A: I started playing guitar at the age of 11.
Q: What do you hope to express though your music?
A: I want to express my message to the listeners so they can feel what I write.
Q: Who are some of your musical influences?
A: Sarah MacLachlan, Billy Joel, Joe Cocker, Tim McGraw, Jason Mraz.
Q: What is the song Sugar and Cream about?
A: The song Sugar & Cream is about me and the boys hanging out at a local restaurant/bar on a Saturday night talking about nothing and having a good time. Then I see a lady walk in and we strike up a conversation over a cup of tea with Sugar & Cream. I talk about my rockin’ band and how I am a simple man and then she talks to me about the birds and the bees as she believes we belong together.
Q: What kind of day jobs have you had and how do they influence your music?
A: I have worked in transport, the baking industry, I have worked in management. I have always liked working with different people and I have met people from all walks of life, as it makes things very interesting when it comes to writing as I try to put myself in their shoes.
Q: What sets you apart from other country singers?
A: I think my singing has more of a rock edge to it with a Motown flavour which sets me apart from the traditional country sound.
Q: What trends in country music annoy you ?
A: I don’t prefer so much the “twangy” sound I hear in some country songs because that sound does not sit well with me.
Q: What is your oddest show biz story?
A: One gig I was playing at, we had a blackout and we had to switch our music from electric to acoustic to keep the audience listening and it actually turned out to be really cool.
Q: What are some of the differences between the Canadian country music scene and the one in the United States?
A: I would say the country music scene is much bigger in the United States than in Canada. I think the country music scene in Canada is growing more now than ever as more artists are emerging.
Q: If you could perform with Bob Dylan or Dolly Parton, who would you pick?
A: I would say Dolly Parton because I have always wanted to do a duet with her.
Please note; Eliza’s interviews are done by email. All answers are unedited and come right from the lovely fingertips of her subjects:)
