About

From the earliest Monday-night sessions, Steve was the musician everyone relied on—the steady hand guiding a group that was still learning how to play together. His technical skill, natural feel for arrangement, and calm, grounded presence shaped the band’s earliest sound and set the tone for everything that came after. He became the anchor that kept the group balanced as the lineup grew, the music evolved, and the band stepped onto bigger stages.

There’s a whole story behind how Steve helped build the foundation the band still stands on today. Discover more in his full writeup →

Bill joined the early sessions of what would become Billy Needs a Beard in the spring of 2002, helping shape the band’s acoustic and folk-leaning sound while contributing to original material and live arrangements. From early Monday-night rehearsals to recording sessions filled with creativity and camaraderie, Bill has been a steady presence in the group. Over the years, he helped guide the band’s live performances across Central Florida, from local venues and festivals to special events, and today leads the charge on the band’s marketing, website, and upcoming album.

Discover how Bill helped shape the sound, spirit, and revival of the band - Read the full story here.

This section will soon highlight Mike's story, contributions, and musical roots within Billy Needs a Beard. Their full writeup is currently in development and will be added as they share more of their history, influences, and memories with the band.

A complete profile is coming soon—stay tuned to learn more about the role Mike plays in shaping the band’s sound.

This section will soon highlight Josh’s story, contributions, and musical roots within Billy Needs a Beard. Their full writeup is currently in development and will be added as they share more of their history, influences, and memories with the band.

A complete profile is coming soon—stay tuned to learn more about the role Josh plays in shaping the band’s sound.

This section will soon highlight Steve Greenberg’s story, contributions, and musical roots within Billy Needs a Beard. Their full writeup is currently in development and will be added as they share more of their history, influences, and memories with the band.

A complete profile is coming soon—stay tuned to learn more about the role Steve plays in shaping the band’s sound.

This section will soon highlight Ken Smith’s story, contributions, and musical roots within Billy Needs a Beard. Their full writeup is currently in development and will be added as they share more of their history, influences, and memories with the band.

A complete profile is coming soon—stay tuned to learn more about the role Ken plays in shaping the band’s sound.

Ben Graffam helped shape Billy Needs a Beard from the very beginning as the group's Monday-night jams morphed into a band with its own voice. From imperfect harmonies to original songs, he loved the creative ride. After stepping away, he channeled that same curiosity into writing, resulting in his book, Reimagining the Educated Mind, which helps students discover their own learning process and artistic voice.

Curious about Ben’s journey with the band and the ideas behind his book? Read the full story here.

Jimmy Bassham holds a cherished place in the history of Billy Needs a Beard. As both a musician and a creative force, he brought a spirit of imagination, generosity, and steady artistry that helped shape the band’s earliest years and its evolving sound. Jimmy shared his talents freely and became an important part of the group’s identity during the time he performed with them.

Outside the band, Jimmy lived a remarkable life of creativity and service. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and went on to work in city government mapping as well as in artistic and prop-building roles at Disney. His blend of technical skill and artistic craft mirrored the balance he brought to the band—practical, inventive, and always contributing something meaningful.

Jimmy passed away on March 6, 2025, at the age of 77, and is survived by his wife Mary Bassham and a large circle of loved ones. His impact, both within the band and in the wider world around him, continues to be deeply felt. A full tribute honoring Jimmy’s life, musical journey, and legacy with the band is currently being developed. We look forward to sharing his story in greater detail after speaking with Mary and gathering the memories that best represent who he was and what he brought to Billy Needs a Beard.