Musician Billy Michael is a versatile performer who knows thousands of songs spanning several decades. According to singer Erin Volpintesta, who has performed with him, he can even play songs he hasn’t heard before.
The solo artist and founder of the J&B Band has been performing in the area for 50 years. Despite having a Vegas-like residency in some local venues, he stated in a recent interview at his Bethel home, “I’m always looking for the next gig.”
“He is a jukebox,” Volpintesta told the Grapevine when asked about performing with Michael. Known for his ability to engage a crowd, he channels Bethel’s most famous showman, P.T. Barnum, when called upon to MC events or deliver special performances.
A sampling of Michael’s setlist includes Nat King Cole, Billy Joel, Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, The Kinks, and Willie Nelson. At 73, he shows no signs of slowing down, performing nearly every night in his hometown and the surrounding area.
Watching him live recently at Dolce Restaurant in Danbury was a treat. His audience was captivated by his gleaming smile, eye contact, and storytelling as he introduced songs. His anecdotes, like a story about the Arizona Rangers and “Big Iron” (Marty Robbins) or a tribute to Bobbie Thuman Christos, highlight his ability to seamlessly blend music and history. His knack for storytelling makes his performances unique. Even well-worn tales feel fresh each time. He also frequently honors local legends, such as Legh Knowles, a Bethel native associated with the Glenn Miller band. His stories reflect Michael’s vast knowledge of local and national history, adding depth to his performances.
Michael’s contributions to the local music scene include creating events like Fiddler’s Brawl and Open Mic Madness Wednesdays at Whitlock’s Restaurant. He also performs solo at venues such as Edison Kitchen and La Zingara and collaborates with musicians at Charter Oak Brewing Compan Volpintesta, a longtime friend, describes Michael as someone who makes everyone feel special. “Billy can play almost any song and radiate enjoyment that people remember. His personality is unforgettable
.Married to gardener Rosaly Donofrio, the couple has a son, Will Michael, and three grandchildren. “Billy has great presence,” said Edison Kitchen Chef/Owner Chris Bruno. “He reads the crowd well and plays to their preferences.”
Michael remains the same warm individual hosting friends early on a Monday morning as he is at his gigs. He welcomes visitors with a smile to the home his grandfather built in 1929. Michael and Donofrio have lived there since 1977. His late mother, Dolores Michael, lived in a house on the property, and his father, William P. Michael, also called it home. Michael’s sister, Pamela, lives nearby.
Donofrio, tending the wood stove, mentioned Michael’s late nights, but he quickly dismissed it, inviting a guest to stay for a chat. Reflecting on his career, Michael shared insights into the evolving entertainment business
In addition to fronting the J&B Band, he leads Jazz for Juniors/All That Jazz and Fiddlers’ Brawl, which regularly perform in the Danbury area. Volpintesta admires his work with young musicians, noting his candid yet effective teaching style
“My life would not be as colorful without Billy,” she said. “Bethel wouldn’t be the same without him—our local icon.” Michael reciprocated the praise, calling Volpintesta “a sweetheart.” The duo is set to perform together on December 19 at Notch 8.
Michael and Donofrio also host an annual pumpkin carving event at their home, a tradition spanning 30 years. Initially for neighborhood children, it now draws adults and community members. Despite challenges like pumpkin shortages, the event remains a highlight, with Michael paying for police assistance to manage traffic.
Michael has also been a prominent community activist, founding the Bethel Action Committee to address local spending. Though less active today, he still participates in town discussions, particularly around charter revisions.
Looking ahead, Michael is committed to his music. “I’ve been doing this professionally for 50 years,” he said. “Sometimes I wonder how much longer I can lift those amps, but I’m not stopping.”
While nostalgic for the heyday of wedding bands, Michael notes the impact of DJs on the industry. “Live bands ruled back then. Weddings were fun with a full band,” he recalled.
Despite steady work, he emphasizes the constant effort required. “You could never coast. Even though I’m an infrastructural musician, there’s no coasting. You’re always hunting for work. That’s one of the most grueling aspects of music. Even if you’re in town for 50 years you’re introducing yourself to someone who doesn’t know who you are. The managers are young. To me they’re kids, so that’s why it’s grueling.”
For more information on Billy Michael’s performances and the J&B Band, check out his schedule online.
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