Big Boss Man

You approach the open door of a local club, and the music gets your attention. Actually, you felt the rhythm section as you opened the car door, but now that you're inside the club you get the full experience. From a modest stage blasts a song that you love, but never gets any radio airplay, and the band is cookin' through a furiously groovy rendition. Powerful, soulful vocals season a musical stew of guitars, bass and drums through a variety of styles ranging from blues to soul to classic rock to funk and back again.
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But one thing is different: these aren't the same old songs you ALWAYS hear from cover bands. These songs are more eclectic and imaginative, and the crowd responds with enthusiasm, dancing and grinding within arms length of the stage as the room just keeps getting hotter. Sound familiar??? If not, then you haven't been out to see BigBossMan. Since 2000, BigBossMan has been “layin' it down” at various clubs and events all across Central Virginia, and has developed a loyal fanbase by playing the songs you love, but rarely hear on the radio.

Doug Bilski (guitars/vocals) explains: “John and I had played in different classic rock bands previously, and we knew each other pretty well. We share a lot of the same ideas about what a band should be - just the right mix of the classics that you love to hear with a sprinkling of some unexpected but exciting tunes as well! We enjoy finding some of those lost favorites and performing them live.” John Hunt (guitar/vocals) adds: “Our secret weapon is our rhythm section (Michael Maher on bass and Greg Handakas on drums) ... they're super funky, lowdown and right on time.

A typical show blends a variety of influences into 3+ hours of sweaty, soulful musical energy that does not disappoint. You can dance fast and you can dance slow, or you can just tap your foot and drink beer at your table all night. Regardless, you will hear great old 70's soul and funk, mixed with classic rock, authentic blues, and sweet 4-part vocal harmonies. Chances are you'll come back again...

Doug Bilski - Lead Guitar, Vocals
Formerly of Glass Onion, Doug has been playing with various classic rock bands since his early teens. Doug sings about half of Big Boss Man's material and plays lead, rhythm, and acoustic guitar. His musical influences include improvisational music of all kinds.

John Hunt - Lead Guitar, Vocals ​
Formerly of Ottoman and the Turks and Krankenhaus, John draws on influences such as the Rolling Stones, Muddy Waters, ZZ Top, Little Feat and numerous Funk and Soul masters, John brings a passionate blues and rock focus to his vocals and guitar playing.

Greg Handakas - Drums, Vocals
Greg sets the rhythmic pulse for Big Boss Man. Behind the kit Greg brings the history of a very diverse musical background. His incredible ear for harmony vocals is pretty cool, too.

Michael Maher - Bass, Vocals
"Michael Maher on the bass guitar!" Formerly with Dickie and the Dewdrops, Cat Daddy, Backstreet, and Apple Nymph, Michael just loves playing music with friends.

For outdoor events, we require a covered, weather-tight space in case of inclement weather.