may contain original research. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding references. Statements consisting only of original research may be removed. More details may be available on the talk page. (February 2008) Billy Sheehan Background information Birth name William Sheehan Born March 19, 1953 (1953-03-19) (age 57) Buffalo, New York, USA Genres Hard rock, heavy metal, jazz fusion, instrumental rock, progressive rock Occupations Musician, songwriter Instruments Bass, guitar, vocals, harmonica Years active 1978–present Associated acts UFO, David Lee Roth, Mr. Big, Richie Kotzen, Marty Friedman, Tim "Ripper" Owens, Talas, Steve Vai, G3, Niacin, Austrian Death Machine Website http://myspace.com/billysheehan Notable instruments Yamaha ATT LTD2 William "Billy" Sheehan (born on March 19, 1953, in Buffalo, New York) is an American bassist known for his work with Talas, Steve Vai, David Lee Roth, Mr. Big, and Niacin. Sheehan has won the "Best Rock Bass Player" readers' poll from Guitar Player Magazine five times for his "lead bass" playing style. Sheehan's repertoire includes the use of chording, two-handed tapping, right hand "three finger picking" technique and controlled feedback. However, Sheehan is also noted as a steady "true" bassist, fulfilling the traditional supportive role of the electric bass in the rock rhythm section. He has been a member of the Church of Scientology since 1971 and appeared on the street offering to defend it during Project Chanology..