Bill & The Burners came together when Howlin’ Bill joined forces with The Slowburners. When Howlin’ Bill’s old band broke up and The Slowburners needed a singer, they found the perfect match in each other.
The band plays a lively mix of blues & roots music with touches of rock ‘n’ roll, country and rockabilly. These experienced musicians work together like a well-oiled machine, and you can see how much fun they’re having on stage.
Howlin’ Bill, the charismatic frontman whose powerful voice resonates through every venue. His masterful command of the ‘Mississippi Saxophone’ (harmonica) brings authentic blues textures to the band’s sound. With decades of experience in the blues scene, Bill’s talent received international recognition when he triumphantly won the prestigious European Blues Challenge in Berlin in 2011, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s premier blues performers.
Johan “Junior Jay” de Laat is Howlin’ Bill’s right-hand man and the band’s guitar virtuoso. With his distinctive telecaster tone, showmanship and impeccable technique, Junior Jay brings authentic blues licks and soulful riffs to every performance.
Steve “Dynamite” Wouters anchors the band with his powerful, energetic drumming that forms the heartbeat of Bill & The Burners. With decades of experience in various bands including Last Call, Steve’s dynamic playing style and impeccable timing create the perfect foundation for the band’s blues-roots sound.
“Nashville” Niels Timmermans is the creative element in the band – a unique blend of John Entwhistle, Pino Palladino and Gonzo from the Muppets. Niels’ unique approach to the bass creates a perfect counterpoint to Junior Jay’s guitar work, while his musical versatility allows him to adapt seamlessly across the band’s diverse repertoire, whether they’re playing Chicago blues, rockabilly, or roots rock.