About Bill

First discovered by the legendary producer John Hammond, Sr. (who once dubbed him "the real essence of American music"), Bill's roots are in the blues as well as roots rock. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Bill was a prominent member of the Jersey Shore music scene, leading bands that included future members of the E Street Band. He has also toured with legendary blues artists such as Albert King, Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee, Willie Dixon, James Cotton, John Lee Hooker and many others fashioning his unique style of blues and roots music. He is a soulful singer, lyrical slide & electric guitarist, electrifying harmonica player and a consummate songwriter professing a style best described as "American Music,” which draws on influences as strong and diverse as the country itself.

Moving to Maine in the 70's, fans along the East Coast know Bill as "The Legend of the North Country," performing from Maine to Nashville and points in between. During his career, he has released 10 albums for major labels including Kamasutra, Paramount, Rounder, Atlantic and Sony/Epic. He has also received an Emmy Award for Musical Direction and Composition, sang a chart-topping duet with Roberta Flack and has had his songs recorded by numerous artists including Deborah Coleman, Zora Young, Kenny Neal, Greg Ladanyi and others.

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“One of the unheralded greats of American rock & roll.”

- Bob Santelli, Director of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

"The real essence of American Music.. Listening to Bill Chinnock sing blues brings back the days of the old Paramount label with Ma Rainey and the greatest blues artists in America“

- John Hammond, Sr. (Columbia Records)

“Strong boiling performances”

- The New York Times