The Billy McBills and Bob

The Billy McBills & Bob are a dynamic trio comprising William Ritter, Tim McWilliams, and Andrew Payseur, each bringing their unique musical background and Appalachian roots to the stage.

William Ritter is a seasoned old-time fiddler, seed-saver, and ballad singer from the mountains of Mitchell County, North Carolina. Deeply passionate about preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of his region, William weaves together stories, songs, and seeds, believing that these old ways hold the key to building resilient communities. His dedication to Appalachian traditions led him to a life-changing apprenticeship with renowned ballad singer and storyteller Bobby McMillon in 2020. The following year, William released his first solo album, Mentor, paying tribute to the mentors who generously shared their wisdom and heritage with him.

William’s music is a heartfelt blend of old-time fiddle tunes, folk songs, ballads, and original compositions that celebrate seed-saving and cultural preservation. His performances are enriched by tales and insights from his studies in Appalachian Roots Music and his experiences during porch visits, bean-stringings, and seed-swaps.

Tim McWilliams and William Ritter crossed paths in Boone, NC, while both were pursuing their M.A. in Appalachian Music at Appalachian State University. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their performances exude a contagious joy. Tim’s flatpicking guitar and bluesy vocals harmonize seamlessly with William’s old-time fiddle, creating a distinctive and fun sound. Their shows are a lively mix of classic fiddle tunes, bluegrass, and music from their heroes: Doc Watson, Ray Price, Hank Williams, Tim O’Brien, Norman Blake, and others.  Like William, Tim is also a recipient of SouthArts’ in these mountains folklife apprenticeship award–which he received to study under the “Acoustic Wizard” Josh Goforth.  Through Josh’s tutelage, Tim has invested heavily in learning the tunes and of great Madison County musicians like Tommy Hunter, Byard Ray, and the unique banjo style of Jerry Adams. 

Andrew Payseur and William Ritter’s musical journey began during their undergraduate years at Western Carolina University, where they performed regularly as the Shorthand Stringband at Cataloochee Ranch. Andrew’s rhythmic prowess and connection to Appalachian traditions round out the trio’s sound, bringing depth and energy to their performances.

Together, The Billy McBills & Bob deliver a vibrant musical experience that celebrates the timeless sounds of the Appalachian Mountains, blending tradition with heartfelt storytelling and an infectious sense of fun.