Billy Watman is a prodigious Anglo-Brazilian instrumental guitarist, classically trained at the prestigious Royal College of Music in London. Since starting his musical journey at the tender age of 6, Billy has evolved into an award-winning musician, known for his extraordinary skill and versatility on the guitar. His influences, including Rodrigo y Gabriela, Tommy Emmanuel, and Mike Oldfield, are evident in his unique style that masterfully blends Flamenco and Classical genres with elements of Rock and Pop, rooted deeply in his Latin heritage.
Billy's musical prowess has not gone unnoticed; his online videos have garnered millions of views, particularly his renditions of "Bohemian Rhapsody," which have received accolades and shares from Queen and Brian May's official channels. This recognition speaks volumes about his ability to connect with and captivate a global audience through his intricate guitar work and dynamic performances. In 2022, Billy's career reached new heights when he was invited by Adam Wakeman of Black Sabbath/Ozzy Osbourne to open all of the UK dates of his 'Jazz Sabbath' tour. This included a sold-out show in Birmingham, where he also shared the stage with Prog-Rock royalty Rick Wakeman. His talent further led him to open for UK rock legends 'Magnum' at their 50th-anniversary concert, showcasing his versatility and appeal across different musical genres and generations.
Billy's journey to prominence was marked by a notable appearance on 'Guitar Star' at the age of 14, where he reached the grand final. His performances on the show were not only stunning but also earned him high praise from legends such as George Benson, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, and David Bowie’s producer Tony Visconti, who described him as 'a little genius.' This early exposure on a global stage set the foundation for his burgeoning career. Beyond solo performances, Billy has become a fixture at UK and European festivals, including ‘Guitar Summit’ and ‘Musikmesse’ in Germany, ‘Latitude’ & ‘Edinburgh Fringe’. His ability to support acts like Midge Ure at the ‘Towersey Festival’ and share the bill with icons such as The Pet Shop Boys and Chaka Khan at ‘The Henley Festival’ underscores his widespread appeal and versatility as a musician.
Billy has also made significant strides in broadcasting, with guest appearances on shows with comedian Rory Bremner and as a special guest of Yolanda Brown on her BBC TV show ‘Yolanda’s Band Jam’. His discography, including two full-length studio albums and a Queen-inspired EP, showcases his eclectic musical range and refusal to be confined to a single genre. Billy's performances, whether on steel or nylon strings, offer a captivating journey through various musical landscapes, from Classical and Flamenco to Pop, Disco, and Classic Rock, all executed on a single guitar. His endorsement by major brands like Ortega Guitars, which released a signature model in his name, and regular appearances at music trade shows and exhibitions, further cement his status as a celebrated guitarist. Available for a wide array of engagements, from TV and session work to private bookings and corporate events, Billy Watman's career is a testament to his incredible talent, dedication, and the universal language of music that transcends boundaries and genres.
