Chuck Billy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Chuck Billy
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Billy performing with Testament in 2014
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Charles Billy |
| Born | June 23, 1962 Alameda County, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Thrash metal |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
| Years active | 1978–present |
Charles Billy (born June 23, 1962) is an American singer. He is best known as the lead singer for the thrash metal band Testament. Thrash metal is a fast and aggressive style of heavy metal music.
Contents
Chuck Billy's Music Career
Joining Testament
Chuck Billy joined a band called Legacy in 1986. He became their new singer. Before him, Steve "Zetro" Souza was the singer. Later, Steve joined another band called Exodus.
After Chuck joined, Legacy changed its name to Testament. In 1987, the band released their first album, The Legacy. Chuck Billy helped write one of the songs on this album, called "Do or Die."
Testament's Sound and Members
Over the years, many musicians have played in Testament. But Chuck Billy and guitarist Eric Peterson have always been in the band. They are the only two members who have played on all of Testament's studio albums.
Chuck's singing style has changed a lot. At first, he sang with a clear, high-pitched voice. Later, he started using a deeper, more growly voice, which is common in some metal music. Since the album Low, he often uses both styles, sometimes even in the same song!
Other Music Projects
Before joining Legacy and Testament, Chuck sang for a local metal band called Guilt. They recorded one demo in 1984.
Chuck has also worked with many other musicians. He sang on songs for James Murphy's solo projects. He also sang on the Sadus song "Crazy" in 2006.
In 2008, Chuck sang "Silent Night" on a Christmas carols album called We Wish You a Metal Xmas and a Headbanging New Year. Other famous musicians like Scott Ian were also on this album.
He joined with his brothers Eddie and Andy Billy, and other musicians, to form a band called Dublin Death Patrol.
Chuck has also been a guest singer on many other band's songs:
- In 2009, he sang on "Live My Dream" for the band Susperia.
- In 2010, he provided a voice for the character Planet Smasher for a live show by Devin Townsend.
- In 2014, he sang on "Trend Killer" for the Swedish band The Haunted.
- Also in 2014, he sang on "BTK" for the band Exodus. He had filled in for Exodus before, in 2004.
- In 2015, he sang on "Can't Kill the Devil" for the band Metal Allegiance.
- In 2019, he sang on "The Never" for Lamb of God guitarist Mark Morton's solo album.
- Also in 2019, he sang on "Waiting to Die" for the band Walls of Blood.
- In 2019, he was featured on the Killswitch Engage song "The Crownless King."
- In 2020, he sang on the Lamb of God song "Routes."
- In 2022, he sang on the Matt Heafy song "Behold Our Power."
- Also in 2022, he sang on "Blood in the Sands of Time" for the band Shadow of Intent.
Future Solo Album
Chuck Billy has mentioned that he might release his own solo album in the future. He hinted that it would sound different from the usual thrash metal style of Testament.
Awards and Recognition
Chuck Billy has received special honors:
- In 2013, a politician named Jim Frazier honored Chuck. He recognized Chuck for being a good role model in the Native American community.
- Chuck became the first Native American to have his items displayed permanently at the Hard Rock Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- He is also recognized in an exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. This exhibit, called "Up Where We Belong: Native Musicians in Popular Culture," featured Native American musicians.
Chuck Billy's Personal Life
Chuck Billy's father was Native American, and his mother was Mexican. He is part of the Pomo Native Americans, who are from Northern California. He is very proud of his Native American background. Sometimes, he gives a shout-out to his "Native brothers and sisters" during concerts. Some of Testament's songs, like "Trail of Tears," "Allegiance," and "Native Blood," are tributes to his heritage.
Chuck Billy is also first cousins with Stephen Carpenter. Stephen is a co-founder and lead guitarist for the band Deftones.
In August 2001, Chuck faced some health challenges. His friends organized a benefit concert to help with his medical costs. After receiving treatment, he got a clean bill of health and continued to sing with Testament.
In March 2020, Chuck and his wife Tiffany tested positive for COVID-19. This happened after they returned from a tour in Europe. He recovered after quarantining at home.
Images for kids
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Chuck Billy performing in 2008.
See also
In Spanish: Chuck Billy para niños
