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Some people feel depressed on their 40th birthday. Billy Otis decided to embrace being 40, thanks to a harmonica he received as a gift from his brother. An Arlington native, Otis believed it was finally time to pursue his dream of becoming a blues musician.
"I ALWAYS wanted to play, so when I turned 40, I finally decided to do it," Otis said. "I started out late, but I played with local players and learned as much as I could. I viewed those I played with as a resource."
In September 2004, Otis was signed by Nashville-based Wild Oats records. He now has one EP and two full-length CDs, including his latest, "Sowing Wild Otis."
"If there's one thing people don't know about the D.C. area, it's that it's full of great musicians," Otis said. "I've played and recorded in Nashville and it's clear artists from D.C. can always hold their own."
Sadly, Otis believes the D.C. Metropolitan area's musical outlets are shrinking, as many places have gone out of business.
"There are so many great players from the area," Otis said. "If I could change anything about this community, I would want more places to play."
Playing gigs anywhere he can around the area, Otis is trying to achieve as much exposure as possible. He recently performed at an open-mic night at the Bangkok Blues night club in Falls Church.
"Billy is a good harmonica player, singer and performer," Bangkok Blues club owner Chai Siribongkot said. "He's experienced and knows what he's doing. What I like most about Billy, though, is that he works very hard and is honest."
LOCAL GUITAR PLAYER Mike Aults performed with Otis at the open-mic night and and believes Otis's determination is conveyed in how far he's come.
"Billy works very hard to write and create music," Aults said. "It's clear he's come a long way in his accomplishments.
Otis' critical nature continues to push him to mature and excel musically.
"My favorite part of singing and performing is how you can share your practice and hard work with everyone," Otis said. "I love live performances because of the immediate feedback. The audience tells you what you're doing well right then and there."
Although Otis is achieving acclaim for his work, he is constantly reminded of how difficult it is to make it in such a competitive business.
"It's easy to play an instrument but hard to play it well," Otis said. "It takes time to adjust to the business because it's easy to listen to others and get jealous. I know I'll hit bumps along the way, but I try not to get discouraged."
Otis is very grateful, however, for the opportunity to do what even the most established players are doing. He has figured out how to lead a band and, in turn, his band has developed confidence in him.
"Billy is the perfect example of what someone can become starting from nothing," Aults said.
Otis maintains a positive outlook for the future. He is aware of how far he has come as an artist and has no regrets on what he has achieved.
"It's necessary to always take the time to reflect on where you were as an artist a year or two ago," Otis said. "You then remember why you got into this business in the first place and you recapture your spirit."