We were saddened to hear the news that drummer Billy “Stix” Nicks died Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the age of 82 after an illness. He died just one day after being inducted into the South Bend Community Hall of Fame.
Bill Nicks founded the popular jazz bands The Rhythm Rockers and the Billy Nicks Jazz Trio. He’s also known for having played and recorded with the prestigious Motown label with Junior Walker and the All Stars.
Billy performed at many WVPE events over the years, including one of the Meet Me on the Island events earlier this year with his band The Motown Machine.
In 2015, Billy “Stix” Nicks was featured as one of the “South Bend Stories” aired on WVPE as part of a celebration of the city’s 150th anniversary. He talked about growing up in South Bend and the beginning of his music career.
Music: "Junghetto" by Billy "Stix" Nicks