Cabaret Conversations: Billy Stritch

Billy Stritch is an acclaimed pianist, singer, arranger, and songwriter celebrated for his sophisticated interpretations of the Great American Songbook. Blending jazz, pop, and classic standards with elegance, wit, and exceptional musicianship, he has become one of America’s most respected cabaret and concert artists.

A native of Sugar Land, Texas, Billy began performing professionally at age 12. While attending the University of Houston, he co-founded the vocal trio Montgomery, Plant & Stritch, which went on to appear at Carnegie Hall and the Newport Jazz Festival.

After moving to New York in 1990, a chance meeting with Liza Minnelli launched a remarkable 25-year partnership. As her pianist, arranger, and musical director, Billy contributed to Grammy-nominated recordings and Tony Award-winning productions, earning widespread recognition for his artistry and inventive arrangements.

Billy co-wrote the Grammy Award-winning country hit “Does He Love You?’ with Sandy Knox. Originally recorded by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis, the song became a country classic and was re-recorded by Reba and Dolly Parton in 2021.

Beyond his work with Minnelli, Billy has collaborated with legendary artists including Tony Bennett and currently performs with Christine Ebersole, Lillias White, Ann Hampton Callaway, and many of today’s leading vocalists. During the pandemic, he created Billy’s Place, a popular livestream series celebrating the Great American Songbook.

A frequent headliner at New York’s Birdland Jazz Club and Bemelmans Bar, Billy continues to delight audiences with his warmth, humor, and impeccable musicianship. His honors include a BMI Song of the Year Award, a Grammy Award, eight MAC Awards, and six BroadwayWorld Awards for Best Musical Director.