Billy Dukes is a Senior Editor and Executive Producer at Taste of Country, where he has over 11,000 articles to his name. His media background includes jobs as music director 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 three sons. In his free time, Billy enjoys playing and watching baseball, cycling and home renovation.
Billy Dukes
‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ Actor Clarence Gilyard Dead at 66
The 66-year-old may best be remembered for starring in nearly 200 episodes of the Chuck Norris adventure series as the title-character's partner and best friend.
‘American Idol’ Officially Adds Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie
Luke Bryan is officially in as a judge for American Idol and Lionel Richie will be joining him and Katy Perry behind the table when the show reboots on ABC in January.
Steven Tyler, ‘Love Is Your Name’ – Song Review
Steven Tyler isn’t just dipping a toe into country music. With “Love Is Your Name” the Aerosmith frontman dives head-first into the genre.
Jon Bon Jovi Gives Bride Surprise of Her Life
One Bon Jovi fan made it her mission to convince Jon Bon Jovi to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day, and it worked! The singer showed up to escort Branka Delic to her groom during a ceremony at the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas on Saturday. The singer offered picture proof of the accident.
Tico Torres Returns to Bon Jovi Tour
After dual surgeries, Bon Jovi drummer Tico Torres is back with the band he's been a part of for 30 years. The 59-year-old Torres returned on Oct. 9 for the group's show in Fresno, Calif., playing a two-hour-plus concert for fans at the Save Mart Center.
Grateful Dead Beer’s Secret Ingredient Is Something Very Grateful Deady
A new Grateful Dead beer will be hitting the market this fall. The band worked with Dogfish Head Craft Brewery to create American Beauty, a "bold pale ale made with 100 percent U.S.-grown ingredients." But it took a suggestion from a fan to get the mix just right.
Neal Schon to Marry Michaele Salahi in December
Journey guitarist Neal Schon and reality-TV star Michaele Salahi have set a wedding date. The couple -- who have been dating for two years -- will marry on Dec. 15 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.
Boston to Release First Album in 11 Years
Boston will reportedly release their first album since 2002 this fall. It's the sixth from the classic band, and the first to be released since singer Brad Delp committed suicide in 2007.
Alice Cooper, Kiss and Vince Neil to Perform at Rock Academy Benefit
Almost eight months after opening its doors with a superstar week of rock music, the Brennan Rock & Roll Academy is lining up more talent to raise money for the music school. Alice Cooper and Kiss will be there again, as will Vince Neil, Rob Zombie and others.
Yes to Reissue ‘Close to the Edge’ With Extras
A reissue of one of Yes' most popular albums of the '70s will include instrumental versions of well-known songs, new artwork, rare photos and remastered stereo mixes.
Dave Davies Says There’s a 50/50 Chance of Kinks Tour
It's up to Ray Davies to decide if and when the Kinks reunite for a tour in 2014. But Dave Davies, the band's guitarist, makes it clear that he's up for it. In fact, he says he told his brother that now is the time because they're not getting any younger.
Genesis Reunion Unlikely Says Guitarist Steve Hackett
There's nothing stopping a full Genesis reunion, but guitarist Steve Hackett calls the prospect "improbable." The group still gets along and members bump into each other from time to time, but eventually talks of getting back together fizzle.