Billy Sheehan has probably received more worldwide press than any contemporary rock artist not on a major label. In much of this coverage, Sheehan is referred to as "the Eddie Van Halen of bass," a title based on Sheehan's virtuosic command of the instrument, together with his ability to play fiery two-handed fretting moves -- a technique Van Halen brought to national attention with his band's debut album in 1978.
During the second encore of their concert at the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, California, Sunday night, July 31, Mr. Big performed a special cover of Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water."
Coming off a successful overseas trek, the original lineup of Mr. Big -- vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Billy Sheehan and drummer Pat Torpey -- will be touring the United States in support of their latest album, What If...