1. “The Real Mr. Heartache,” Johnny Paycheck
When Johnny Paycheck died earlier this year, his passing went largely unnoticed, but not by Billy Dee, who considers Paycheck one of the great country songwriters. This slow sad song brings out a real passion in Billy Dee.2. “The Ride,” David Allen Coe
Billy Dee sings several songs by his former employer. This one’s a midtempo rocker that brings out his best Bob Seger growl. After this song, expect the band to rip it up for a while.3. “Chiseled in Stone,” Vern Gosdin
By another one of Billy Dee’s former bosses, this song changed the bassist’s life. It was the shoulder he needed to cry on after his wife’s premature passing, and it turned his life fully toward country music.4. “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will),” George Jones
Billy Dee loves to sing ballads more than anything else, and it comes out in this classic.5. “Roly Poly,” Bob Wills
Western swing is the foundation of Billy Dee’s career.6. “Bob Wills Is Still the King,” Waylon Jennings
No country-music star laid down the deep, midtempo groove like Waylon, with the bass and drums loping along at half time. Billy Dee and band capture it perfectly in this song.7. “(Slide off of Your) Satin Sheets,” Johnny Paycheck
Yet another of Billy Dee’s former bosses, Paycheck’s material sounds great with Billy Dee’s voice.8. “Statue of a Fool,” Jack Greene
Both Ginny and her daughter Sharon independently cited this song as their favorite Billy Dee cover.9. “Mama Don’t Let Your Cowboys Grow Up to Be Babies,” Tony Joe White
One of Dale Watson’s favorite songs that Billy Dee sings.10. “Fourteen Carat Mind,” Gene Watson
This rockin’ country song with a straight four beat is great two-stepping material, not too slow but not too fast. The dance floor is usually crowded on this one.This article appears in October 10 • 2003.