Album Notes

"Melodic pop that runs with both shoe laces untied." This is the best way to describe Billy Schafer's music. Billy writes hook-filled tunes that chase themes of love and dreams with earnest abandon.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Billy began as a drummer but was ultimately drawn to the guitar by his admiration of troubadour heroes past and present, such as Buddy Holly, John Lennon, and Elliot Smith. "Their melodies are what initially pulled me in. But there's also an intelligence and simplicity to these guys' song structures and lyrics. They inspire me to write music that's catchy but not cloy, simple yet smart."

Billy's passion and diligence for crafting compelling songs is winning him fans and awards. In April 2008, Billy won "Best Song Award" in a West Coast Songwriters Competition. A few months later, his song "The Dream is Alive" was one of 12 songs chosen by the Acoustic Fuel record label for a compilation dedicated to music with an empowering message. This same song will be featured in the upcoming documentary film "The California Triple."

"First to Believe" is the title of Billy's August 2009 CD, which he co-produced with San Francisco based producer Mike Winger. The album radiates warmth and wit. The title track is a swelling anthem that speaks to the redemptive power of belief. Other tracks, like "My Mona Lisa" and "April Fool for You" are playful odes to hope and romance.

Billy plays regularly throughout the Bay Area in venues such as Hotel Utah, Freight and Salvage, and Café Bazaar.