MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #412: Billy Gilman

Billy Gilman is an American singer known for his country and pop music career. He gained national attention at the young age of 11 with the release of his debut album “One Voice,” which was certified double Platinum in the United States. The album’s title track became a Top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, making Gilman one of the youngest performers ever to have a hit song on the country charts. Born William Wendell Gilman III on May 24, 1988, in Westerly, Rhode Island, he was interested in music from a young age and was encouraged by his family to pursue his talent.

Career Milestones:

1. Early Career: Gilman was discovered by Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel, who helped him get a recording contract with Epic Records.
2. Initial Success: His debut album “One Voice” was released in 2000, earning him a Grammy nomination, among other accolades.
3. Subsequent Releases: After the success of his debut, he released additional albums like “Dare to Dream” (2001) and “Music Through Heartsongs” (2003), although these did not replicate the success of his debut.
4. Transition to Adult Career: As he matured, his voice changed, which presented a challenge for his career as a country artist. During this period, he took a hiatus to reassess his career and vocal style.
5. Public Coming Out: In 2014, Gilman publicly came out as gay. He has since become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has discussed the challenges of being a gay artist in the country music industry.
6. The Voice: In 2016, Gilman appeared on the eleventh season of the American TV show “The Voice,” where he was a contestant on Team Adam Levine. He ended up as the runner-up, and his performances garnered significant attention and revived interest in his career.
7. Recent Projects: Post-“The Voice,” Gilman has continued to record music, shifting more towards the pop and adult contemporary genres. He has released singles and has been active on social media platforms to engage with his fans.

Influence and Legacy:

Billy Gilman’s early success helped pave the way for other young artists in the country music scene. However, his career trajectory also serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges child stars may face as they transition into adulthood. His coming out and advocacy work have also contributed to the ongoing conversation about LGBTQ+ representation in country music.

He has won several awards and accolades throughout his career, and his story continues to captivate both fans and the media alike.