Billy Jolly’s musical journey began in his childhood home, where he would secretly listen from the landing as his father and friends gathered for musical evenings. Eventually discovered, he would join them at the piano to sing Sankey Hymns as the boy soprano, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to music and performance.
His first musical instrument came in the form of a Christmas moothie (mouth organ), and within a few years, he was performing in HMS Pinafore at the Hatston Garrison Theatre. His official debut as a singer came at age eleven or twelve at the Kirkwall Music Festival, where he performed “The Happy Wanderer”. These early experiences led to his involvement with various groups, including The Moonshiners, who performed at the Tankerness WRI.
In 1968, Billy began performing with his future wife Ingi, debuting at an Orkney Strathspey and Reel Society evening in Holm. They became known for their interpretations of local songwriter Ally Windwick’s work, including “Butter on the Bow” and “Chappan at the Door”. Their performance of “Weary O the Darinig” helped Windwick win a Rotary song writing competition.
Billy’s musical career expanded through several significant collaborations. He was a member of “The Whassigoes” (meaning “a piece of nonsense talk”), who toured schools in Orkney’s twin region of Hordaland, Norway, promoting local music and culture. He later joined the popular group “Hullion”, where his moothie playing, singing, and storytelling abilities entertained audiences across Scotland. His natural talent for engaging audiences with humor and warmth made him a particularly effective ambassador for Orkney’s musical traditions.
His recorded legacy includes a 1966 single “Songs of the Land and Sea” and the 1978 LP “Music from the Orkney Islands”, recorded with Ingi, Ally Windwick, Hugh Inkster, and Nancy Castle. These recordings helped preserve and share Orkney’s rich musical heritage. In 2015, he travelled to Monaco with the local school group Hadhirgann, performing for the Prince of Monaco, bringing Orcadian music to an international audience.
Throughout his career, Billy remained deeply committed to nurturing young talent, regularly visiting schools to teach local songs and encourage young musicians. His work with school children was characterized by his ability to make music accessible and enjoyable, helping to ensure the continuation of Orkney’s musical traditions. He was a familiar and beloved face at the Cullerlie Singing Festival and was heavily involved with The Orkney Gathering group.
Billy’s legacy extends beyond his performances and recordings. His dedication to preserving and sharing Orkney’s musical heritage, combined with his natural ability to put performers at ease and engage audiences, has left an indelible mark on Orkney’s cultural landscape. His commitment to encouraging young musicians and his talent for making traditional music both accessible and entertaining has helped ensure that Orkney’s musical traditions continue to thrive for future generations.
Billy passed away in 2024.