Bill Sims, Jr., inherited the musical traditions of blues and gospel from his father and began playing piano at the age of four. At 14, Bill Sims, Jr turned professional by joining his first band, Ohio-based Jacksonian Blues. He left the band to attend Ohio State University where he majored in music. There, he learned his lessons well sitting in the piano chair of Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Freddie King, the Ojays, Jerry Butler and many other greats.