Billy Sheehan is to the electric bass what Eddie Van Halen is to the electric guitar. Over the years, the Buffalo, New York-born virtuoso has changed the way people think about the four-stringed instrument. His use of chords, two-handed tapping, and controlled feedback has made him a superstar of a style that has become known as 'lead bass'. During a recent interview with MusicRadar, Sheehan recalled his early influences, spoke of the heady times playing Japan with Mr. Big and revealed that he once almost joined Van Halen. For more Billy Sheehan and the best music news, reviews and tuition, head to www.musicradar.com.