About
The Dusty 45's
Infused by a passion for American roots music in all its varied forms, The Dusty 45s blur the line between genres to create a style that is, in its final distillation, entirely fresh and new. Singer/Songwriter, Billy Joe Huels, paints his illustrative and personal stories with a signature ’65 Gibson steel string guitar, and combines elements ranging from honky-tonk and swing to pure rock. Toss in Seattle’s finest musicians, their top-notch vocal harmonies, twangy guitars, upright bass and drums, top it off with Huels’ electric stage presence & fiery trumpet – and The Dusty 45s’ unique sound is complete.Professional, confident, and experienced, The Dusty 45s rock packed houses from coast to coast. Six independent releases have earned the band constant airplay, glowing reviews, and impressive sales in the U.S. and abroad. The band has appeared alongside countless other major artists and entertainers, and in 2008, they were also honored to meet Barack Obama and perform for his campaign.
The Personnel:
Billy Joe Huels, Trumpet/guitar/lead vocals
Founding member, Billy Joe Huels’ songwriting skills, charisma, and commanding stage presence has
kept The Dusty 45s at the top of the Northwest music scene. Ever the consummate entertainer, he recently
starred in the title role as Buddy Holly in The 5th Avenue Theatre production of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story.
Jerry Battista, Lead guitar/vocals
Blues/rock and roots veteran Jerry Battista has been the featured lead guitarist in The Dusty 45s for over four years. He was a member of top Northwest bands, The Allies and Edison Jones. He also leads his own group and continues to be a popular draw in clubs throughout the Seattle area.
Kelly VanCamp, Drums, harmonica, vocals.
Kelly VanCamp was a founding member of Olympia legends The Noses, and went on to play with Ska bands Engine 54, Easy Big Fella as well as Seattle roots bands Blue Spark and Kim Virant. VanCamp also starred in The 5th Avenue Theatre’s production of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, where he portrayed the legendary Big Bopper.
Jeff Gray, Upright Bass, vocals.
Jeff Gray grew up in Georgia and now hails from Bellingham, WA. His unmistakable sound and drive is now part of the Americana, roots rock engine of The Dusty 45s. He has been part of the Bellingham's Footstompin' Trio, Gadjo Gypsies, and also expresses his talents writing and arranging for a wide variety Northwest groups.
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