Billy Strings, also known as William Lee Apostol, is a super-talented bluegrass folk guitarist and songwriter. He’s known for renditions of songs like ‘Slow Train,’ ‘In the Morning Light,’ and ‘Dust in a Baggie.’ Strings has collaborated with Luke Combs, Molly Tuttle, Willie Nelson, and Ringo Starr, to name a few. The Grammy Award-winning artist’s mom, Debra, sadly passed away in the early hours on June 20, 2025.
Billy Strings’ Mother, Debra Apostol
Billy, a Michigan native, didn’t have the easiest childhood growing up. His father died when he was young, and his mom remarried a bluegrass artist named Terry Barber. Billy learned to appreciate music and play guitar through Barber.
After moving around a lot and having some drug issues of his own, Billy became “California sober” (using marijuana and light psychedelics) and dedicated himself to playing music, especially bluegrass and folk. His mother, Debra, and stepdad, Terry, were two of his biggest supporters. His aunt dubbed him “Billy Strings” after seeing his extraordinary talent on multiple stringed bluegrass instruments.
On Thursday, June 19, Billy played a show near his hometown in Michigan. It was the Charlotte Bluegrass Festival. His father, Terry, played with him at the show, but his mom, Debra, was not able to attend. She passed away in her sleep, and only a few hours later.
Billy Strings Announces the News in Lexington, KY
After his stop in Lansing, MI, Billy and his band went on to Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, for their next show. Billy was awakened by his wife Ally to hear the news. He said he put on his shoes and walked into a nearby small church.
I walked until I saw this little country church and it was like a beacon, and I went there and knocked on the door and this kind lady let me in and she stayed with me and prayed with me for a while.
That night, Billy made the decision to go on with his Kentucky show. He knew that his mom would’ve wanted him to play. After he announced the sad news, he told the crowd:
…please, instead of a moment of silence, can you please make as much noise right now for my mom?
The sold-out show, roughly about 20,000 fans, made a lot of noise. The crowd roared with enthusiasm. That night, it was all about the appreciation of Billy, warm memories of his mother, and his amazing music.
For those interested in seeing Billy Strings, his tour dates can be found here. He will be touring in Europe, the UK, and throughout the US from early October 2025 until December 13th, 2025.
