Billy Smolen

Billy Smolen is a professional bassist, guitarist, and music educator based in Jersey City, NJ. A true musical chameleon, he can be found everywhere from jazz clubs and musical theater pits, to festival stages and DIY venues across the country. Billy holds a B.M. in Jazz Studies and Music Education from the prestigious William Paterson University. He has studied under Steve LaSpina (Jim Hall), Evan Marien (Alan Holdsworth), and Jonathan Storck (NJSO).

As a professional, Billy has worked with Darryl McDaniels, Anees, Kyle Taylor Parker, Ed Palermo, and an ever growing list of musicians and artists. He is a regular in the NYC theater and cabaret circuit where he often performs at 54 Below, Green Room 42, and Don’’t Tell Mama, as well as Off-Broadway theaters such as New World Stages. He is an in demand sub as well - most recently for Romy & Michele and Empire: The Musical. He also music directs a wedding band, catering to high end clientele throughout the tri state area.

Billy also has a passion for Punk and Alternative music. He regularly tours the country with his Ska-Punk band Joker’s Republic, and can be seen opening for acts like Goldfinger , Less Thank Jake and Save Ferris. Their new album The Hand You’ve Been Dealt is out now on Punkerton Records.

As an educator, Billy maintains a substantial studio, teaching private student and group classes across all ages and skill levels. He has sent students to Yale, Berklee College of Music, Manhattan School of Music, The New School, as well as a host of pre college and summer camp programs.