Billy Strings, born William Lee Apostol on October 3, 1992, in Lansing, Michigan, and raised in Muir, began playing guitar under the guidance of his stepfather, Terry Barber. He adopted his stage name from an aunt who noted his skill and initially explored metal before returning to bluegrass. After moving to Traverse City post-high school, he gained recognition in the genre. Strings released his debut album Turmoil & Tinfoil in 2017, followed by Home in 2019 on Rounder Records, which won the Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album in 2021. Subsequent albums Live Vol. 1 and Highway Prayers earned the same award in 2025 and 2026. He was named International Bluegrass Music Association Guitar Player of the Year in 2019. With his band, featuring banjoist Billy Failing, bassist Royal Masat, and mandolinist Jarrod Walker, Strings performs extensively, over 200 shows annually, known for improvisational bluegrass that incorporates diverse influences.