Home > Austin Music Source > Archives > 2010 > December > 27 > Entry
Bill Maddox, former Eric Johnson drummer, shot to death
Eric Johnson’s manager Joe Priesnitz said he’s confirmed through the guitarist that Bill Maddox, who played in three bands with Johnson since 1974, was the man shot and killed in a burglary in Oak Hill this morning.
Here’s the story published earlier today on statesman.com.
“He was an incredible person,” said Priesnitz, who added that he’s thankful Maddox’s wife Rhonda was unhurt.
A law enforcement source who wished to remain anonymous because he’s unauthorized to talk to reporters said a woman believed to be Rhonda Maddox called 911 at 7:27 a.m. and reported a burglary in progress at the couple’s home. “They’re in the house,” she told the 911 operator, “I’m gonna have to shoot them.” The phone was put down, then the operator heard a single shot, followed after a pause, by several more.
Police are reporting that the intruder was 63-year-old neighbor John Debrecht, a top area long distance runner in the 60-64 age group. The father of four was shot and airlifted to University Medical Center Brackenridge.
“I think Eric will release a statement today, but right now he’s devastated,” said Priesnitz.
A native of Abilene, Maddox formed jazz-rock band the Electromagnets with childhood friend, keyboard player Stephen Barber, in Austin to 1973. The next year, guitar whiz Johnson was added to the group. Maddox also played in the Eric Johnson Group, Alien Love Child and in Omar and the Howlers.
Maddox replaced Chris Layton in Grady in 2006, but had to drop out a year later due to a heart condition. He built a home recording studio and had finished a solo project just before his death.
“There are a lot of very good drummers out there, but when you see a great one, you know it,” said Musicmakers owner David Baldry, who grew up in Abilene with a tightknit group that included Barber, Johnson bassist Kyle Brock, vintage rocker Johnny Dee and Austin City Limits Live general manager Tim Neece. “Bill Maddox was a great drummer.”
Chris Maresh played bass with Maddox in Alien Love Child, Johnson’s bluesy side-project. “He brought so much energy to the band,” Maresh recalled. “He was like Mitch Mitchell of the Jimi Hendrix Experience.
Maddox also played guitar and was a passionate collector of vintage Fender guitars, an expensive hobby he could afford because he worked for Dell Computers when the company started.
“At first I think he worked on the loading dock,” Maresh said, “but it ended up being quite lucrative because Billy bought every stock option he could.”
Priesnitz said Maddox struggled with drugs and alcohol earlier in his career, but was committed to sobriety for several years and helped many others get sober.
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By Scott Unzicker
December 27, 2010 2:47 PM | Link to this
What a sad day. My condolences to Rhonda, Bill’s family, EJ, Joe, and the entire organization.
By Daniel David
December 27, 2010 3:07 PM | Link to this
Love you Billy - sad!!!
By Dustin Sears
December 27, 2010 3:19 PM | Link to this
What a great loss. I’m shocked. Such a sweet dude. We will all miss him. I will always remember how cool he was.
By John Hazard
December 27, 2010 4:21 PM | Link to this
I worked with Bill at Dell, and have followed him throughout his musical career with Eric, and have enjoyed his side work with the Fabulous Chavelles. He will certainly be missed by those of us who knew him.
By Ryan Holley
December 27, 2010 4:37 PM | Link to this
Very sad indeed… RIP BILLY…
By Angela May
December 27, 2010 4:59 PM | Link to this
I am heartbroken.
By David Starry
December 27, 2010 5:01 PM | Link to this
Billy was a great drummer, a creative musician, and a really nice guy to know. This is a tremendous loss for his family, his close friends, and also to all of the audiences and members of the music community that he touched. So long, Bill - and thanks for everything.
By joel guzman and Sarah Fox
December 27, 2010 5:54 PM | Link to this
We will remember Billy forever for his kind spirit and his incredible contribution to the music world. We’ll see you later.
Joel and Sarah
By Carol Piza and Rick Gray
December 27, 2010 6:16 PM | Link to this
Stunned and deeply saddened to hear the news. We’ve listened to Bill since the early 70s and had the honor of meeting him several times over the years. Our deepest sympathy to Rhonda and to his musical family.
By Jeff.....
December 27, 2010 6:39 PM | Link to this
I first remember Bill from the Damian’s, Carnaby’s dayz in H-town when it was a bit safer….the Project Terror band he fronted was a hoot! He will always be the friendliest musician I’ve ever met…..a personal drum idol of mine…..we would share a drum moment now and then……so very inspirational…….I am beyond distressed at this moment…..he will be missed beyond words ……….:~(
By Gary Herman
December 27, 2010 6:39 PM | Link to this
I am so saddened by the news of Bill’s passing. I don’t think I am exaggerating when I say he was one of the sweetest, gentlest souls I ever had the pleasure of meeting. A great drummer too. My heart goes out to his family. Mr. Starry said it all.
By Gary Mabry
December 27, 2010 7:41 PM | Link to this
Bill was the drummer in our high school band The Signs of Life in Abilene. Even then he was clearly outstanding. What a terribly sad incident. May God bless his wife and all those who were close to Bill.
By Mark Maynard
December 27, 2010 7:56 PM | Link to this
Bill was so kind, and always had something uplifting to say. I worked with Bill for several years in the Product Development group at Dell, and he helped me to set up my home studio. He was such an outstanding drummer, and an inspiration to watch. This is so hard to comprehend; Bill will be missed very, very much.
By Daniel David
December 27, 2010 8:28 PM | Link to this
Love you Rhonda - Sad! :(
By Mark
December 27, 2010 8:44 PM | Link to this
Thank you Michael for currently being the only article giving an accurate description of Bill’s music bio. Other websites (i.e. KXAN, KVUE, KEYE, etc.) are simply stating that Bill once played with Eric in the Electromagnets (actually, it was Eric who played with Bill in the Electromagnets!) with no mention of even Alien Love Child or the earlier Eric Johnson Group. And let us not forget about Bill’s mid-1970s group called Project Terror which featured Bill on guitar and lead vocals; Project Terror released a 45 and toured around Texas for some time. One more thing: 54 = 2 x 27 (27 being the age of so many musicians who have died suddenly and tragically). And Teena Marie just died at 54 as well…
By Terry & Charlotte Trick
December 27, 2010 8:53 PM | Link to this
I didnt know Billy well,but I know he was an exceptional person. Him and Rhonda were very close ,like they were just mad for each other. We are all saddened here. He will be missed by so many people. I cant emagine what Rhonda will do without him. He was her rock. Rhonda is my niece and the lose will be sorly felt here. Please pray for here.
By skip davis
December 27, 2010 9:25 PM | Link to this
…RIP my friend Bill. Catch you later on the other side.
By Dave Davis
December 27, 2010 9:48 PM | Link to this
Bill and I were friends and fellow musicians back in Abilene. He was as nice a man as you will ever meet, as well as a phenomenal drummer and musician. This is very sad indeed.
By Jim Ragus
December 27, 2010 9:51 PM | Link to this
Bill was the nicest person you could ever want to meet and quite literally as good as anyone to ever sit behind a drum kit. This is truly a sad day… what a waste. RIP Bill!
By Phil (LC) Chidester
December 27, 2010 10:29 PM | Link to this
Bill was a wonderful friend for 20 years. I worked with him at Dell and played with him in several bands throughout the years. He had a incredible connection with people and music and he will be tremendously missed by all. I send out my condolences to Rhonda and the musical community.
By Kay
December 28, 2010 2:16 AM | Link to this
This is such a tragic loss for my dear friend,Rhonda. I know she absolutely adored her husband. I had the pleasure of seeing Billy play. I can say he did it with an exceptional joy, you could literally see how much he enjoyed playing by the constant smile on his face while performing. I send my prayers, thoughts and most sincere condolences to Rhonda and Billy’s familiy. I pray Rhonda will find the strength she will need to face this difficult time. God bless her beloved Billy may he rest in peace. I love you Rhonda and am sorry I am so far away and cannot be with you at this time.
By Dee Purkeypile
December 28, 2010 7:29 AM | Link to this
How terribly sad! Billy had the special ability to listen and tune in to the music and the musicians he played with..! He would catch your eye and smile. It made playing with him a delight. He was such a great drummer and musician. We’ll miss you!
God’s speed Billy!
By Poohl Griffin
December 28, 2010 8:11 AM | Link to this
I’ve known Bill since he was a kid in Abilene.What a terrible loss to music and our lives.RIP Bill
By jack
December 28, 2010 9:56 AM | Link to this
I took my son to see Eric, Bill and Chris at the Back yard not long ago. It was my son’s first time to see them play. I simply don’t have the words right now. it just doesn’t make sense. Bill, you will always be in our hearts.
By Michael Mordecai
December 28, 2010 11:14 AM | Link to this
The music community is deeply saddened and shocked that something like this has happened to one our own.
By Ronda Nielsen
December 28, 2010 11:28 AM | Link to this
I met Billy just weeks before he quit his job at Dell and started playing with Eric Johnson again. Alien Love Child was born. I helped Billy spray paint his bass drum for the first gig. What wonderful memories I have of those magical days. God Bless you Rhonda, and Ray, Steven, Eric, Chris, Kyle, Annie…. You touched my life in so many ways…Thanks for all the music
By Rose Vincent and the Vincent Family
December 28, 2010 12:35 PM | Link to this
We have had the pleasure of working with Billy and Rhonda on their house over the years and are terribly shocked at the news. What a wonderful gentle man. Our prayers for Rhonda and the family.
By Mandy Mercier
December 28, 2010 12:36 PM | Link to this
Very sad to hear of this terrible tragedy. Another loss to the great original Austin music community. Rock on
By Diane Davis
December 28, 2010 12:37 PM | Link to this
I remember Bill from Abilene Cooper and “The Signs of Life” playing at the YMCA’s Coed dances back in the 70’s. I recall him being a very kind and gentle spirited person and he obviously has made our lives richer for having known him. Rest in peace sweet friend.
By Jason Frankhouser
December 28, 2010 12:38 PM | Link to this
What a terrible loss. My condolences to his family and friends.
By Chris Young
December 28, 2010 1:00 PM | Link to this
Why?………
By Ron Frey
December 28, 2010 1:15 PM | Link to this
I grew up watching Bill Play with Eric . He was kind smart funny and an amazing musician. I went to see Bill play with project terror once and I missed him playing Hendrix up from the skies he said thats ok we will play it again just for you… He did.. Bill was a great human being and multitalented and I just cant believe this has happened. I know he was a dedicated husband and a great person, He will be really really missed I just cant imagine him not being here.. Rip Bill Maddox thank you for being kind and true I will always remember You.
By John Schwartz
December 28, 2010 1:30 PM | Link to this
I’m heartbroken with this news. Condolences to his family and family of musical friends. See you on the other side Bill!
By Connie Ellis
December 28, 2010 5:34 PM | Link to this
My condolences to Bill’s family. I worked with him at Dell in the early years and he was always a gentleman. He will be greatly missed!!
By Ernie Durawa
December 28, 2010 6:15 PM | Link to this
This is so sad.I knew Bill’s reputation as a World Class Drummer.
My prayers are with his family.
Ernie Durawa
By Robert Underwood
December 29, 2010 3:45 PM | Link to this
I played bass with Bill off and on with his band The Project (previously known as Project Terror) from mid 1982 until mid 1985. He played guitar in this group and was surprisingly good on the instrument. Bill had such a kind heart. He was always considerate of others. We stayed in touch over the past 25 years and I can honestly say that he was one of the nicest guys I ever knew. My prayers are with Rhonda and other family members at this time.
By john benson
December 29, 2010 4:16 PM | Link to this
Bill was the one that injected the ‘not too serious side to the group. An incredible drummer with wit and humour. I remember seeing the group in San Marcos in 79 and 80. They would play these pop songs fron the 7 worlds …. and the do something like Devo’s version of Satsfaction. They would also play a zz top song or 2. Bill could never restrain from a pig or cattle call during the chickin pickin! well miss you
By Clay Moore
December 29, 2010 9:23 PM | Link to this
I played with Billy a few times in the 80’s and 90’s. He was a really sweet gentleman in that tradition that comes out of West Texas - the kind of people who make you feel at home immediately. I last saw him with Eric and Chris when Alien Love Child played in Minneapolis on a cold winter’s night. They absolutely rocked the place! What a way to go. You’ll be missed, Billy.
Clay Moore
By Cheryl Beck-Ruff
December 30, 2010 12:41 PM | Link to this
This is an unspeakable tragedy. I did not have the privilege of knowing Billy personally, but knew all about him through my dear friend Rhonda. He sounded like a wonderful man, and was truly the light of her life. All of her friends in Chicago were grateful that she’d found such a wonderful soul mate. Our heart goes out to Rhonda and all of Billy’s family and friends.
By George Cisneros
December 30, 2010 4:09 PM | Link to this
Bill was one of many highly talented drummers studying with George Frock at UT when I arrived in 1972……Paul Blakemore, Larry Crook, John Traynor, Carolyn Corder, Will Kidd and others whose names have drifted into fog this afternoon.
Catherine and I sat a bit dubfounded when we read the article in Wednesday’s SA News. We recall the excitement of the Electros first gigs and the added excitement once Eric galvanized the band’s sound. Once we moved to Houston in 1976, we tried to attend all their gigs whenever they were in town. Bill was gracious and enjoyable - always a gentleman even in his most precarious times.
I still have the Billy Cobham “Spectrum” 33-1/3 LP he gave me in my record collection.
Of late, the past 10 years or so, I only wish we could have spent some time together.
Our profound sentiments to all whose lives he touched through smiles and other brushes…..
By tony
December 30, 2010 7:11 PM | Link to this
Bill was also heard in Portugal!
I followed the Bill’s musical career in last years due his participation with Eric Johnson
He Helped to make one of my best music albums “Alien Love Child’s-Live and Beyond”
My deep condolences to Bill’s family and all his friends
By sylvia villarreal
December 30, 2010 10:52 PM | Link to this
I’ll always remember Bill as a sweet and kind hearted person. I can still see his smiling eyes as he played the music he loved. My heart and thoughts go out to Rhonda, Eric and all the family & friends who’s hearts he touched.
By Dan & Kay Bowen
December 31, 2010 11:32 AM | Link to this
What a terrible event in our neighborhood. We lost two neighbors who were friendly and an asset to our small community. We will miss the warm friendly daily smile of Billy out walking by and giving us a friendly wave hello. An event that occured twice daily and occasionaly with Ronda by his side. He will be sadly missed by me.
As for John, A neighbor who was always working on his property, passing by in his truck heading home from work. Occasionally chatting to need a hand on something. His wife Linda who walked and was very friendly as she came by our house to see how we were.
I hope that the familys of both neighbors know that our neighborhood is here to help them in any way. They will both be greatly missed.
DB
By Shawn
December 31, 2010 1:54 PM | Link to this
I met Bill in 1986 at “PCs Limited” (as Dell was then known). I gravitated towards Bill as one of the few “normal” people there. I knew nothing of Bill’s musical life, which was kind of on “hold” at that time. When I found out, I kidded him with “Damn, Bill. I didnt know that you’re a “rock star”“. He laughed and smiled that sweet, wry smile and said, “Well, I used to be…”. We had a lot of discussions about music. And, when he did return to the stage, I was blown away by how talented Bill was. But he was an even better human being. A truly kind and gentle soul. We are all the richer for having known Bill. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy. So, go out and grab a disc, plug it in and turn it UP!
By Cat Sundeen
January 1, 2011 1:47 PM | Link to this
After learning only last night that Stevie Wilson had passed away in November, I took it as a sign that I should reconnect with all the great friends I had back in the late 1970s/early 1980s when I lived in Texas. I immediately thought of Bill, as he and Stevie had played together in Project Terror - a visionary and super-creative band of that era. I went online to see if Bill had a website and instead was met with the news of Bill’s tragic death. It is inconceivable that this could have happened to such a gentle soul. Bill used to laugh when I called him Mr. Karma, but if anyone lived a selfless life, it was him. And what a brilliant mind and natural musical talent he had. He could play any kind of music - always effortlessly, always perfectly. I am so honored to have known Bill and hope his wife and family will take comfort in knowing what a special person he was to his many friends, and how much better this world is for his having been part of it.
By Dave Newman
January 1, 2011 10:30 PM | Link to this
I am shaken to hear of this tragedy. What a shame and what a waste. I used to watch the Electromagnets play in Houston at Damian’s and Carnaby’s in the ’70s, and I remember seeing Bill standing on a street corner in San Marcos one day way back then, as I drove by. I hit the brakes to say hello to him. I live near there now and I would think about that sometimes when I passed that corner there at Palmer’s. I’ll think about it more from now on,…I’m sure. Our hearts are saddened, and are with his family and close friends.
Dave Newman SMTX.TV
By Rita A. Banda
January 2, 2011 11:01 AM | Link to this
Yes Indeed The City of Austen is sadden by the death of My Dear Friend Bill Maddox! I new him when we worked at PC ‘Limited now known as “DELL” He always carried with him the biggest smile in his pocket at all times. I never knew Bill as one that got upset for nothing. I missed saying good-bye for know, because of my car battery “DIED” Yet I felt good that I knew his spirit will live on forever in our “HEARTS!” Because he would of wanted it that way. I believe that he came down to teach all of us about Love and Peace! He did it. Because now when I think of Bill Maddox I feel a peace that I thought only God gives me. That is what all of us should have. We all take life for grated. And should stop and think how good it feels to have Love. Rhonda has the Love that Bill gave her. She is a great spirit. That is why he choose Rhonda.. She will live on to carry his great name. And Rhonda will remember all the good things Bill gave her the one is the greatest feeling, sometime we go on in life not experiencing “LOVE” This guy is sitting on a cloud in heaven Singing Rhonda the Greatest Love Song. I love you my Brotha! I will see you again. Austin Texas will miss you. I remember he use to tell me “Sista Rita “Have Faith” Good-Bye for now. My Friend Rita Ann Banda
By David Dennard
January 4, 2011 1:43 PM | Link to this
Bill was one of the greatest drummers I’ve eve met, and one of the nicest guys too. I played bass on a 45 RPM single he wrote under the moniker of Project Terror called “In Memory of Buda”, and Bill played guitar and sang lead vocals, long before the Foo Fighters. A multi-talented guy, smart as a whip, friendly, humble and absolutely ferocious on drums. His death is a terrible shock and a pointless loss to the world. God bless him and his family.
By Lee Law
January 4, 2011 10:22 PM | Link to this
Circus barker really cast a spell Fire breather down the well Gasp went up when the trapeze fell Into the hall of mirrors
Circus gypsies stand and cry Every one of them shield their eyes Trapeze lady in the sky Suspended by her tears
Painted urchins in delight Dance around the fire they light Town’s ablaze, no one to fight They’re burning all their fears
Take that road Take any road at all Take that road You can hear the call Take that road Make your move Take that road Find your groove Take that road Any road at all Any road at all
Moon is suddenly your best friend Telling you not to pretend There really is a happy end An angel by your side
Up ahead’s an open field Bathed in moonlight you can feel A single church bell slowly peels Your favorite angel cries
Up ahead’s an open field Bathed in moonlight you can feel A single church bell slowly peels Your favorite angel cries Your favorite angel cries Your favorite angel cries
By jeremy lewis
January 7, 2011 5:39 AM | Link to this
My heart goes out to his family and friends. What a tremendous loss to the music world and Austin. I’m sorry to hear of this.
By Lee jackson
January 7, 2011 2:15 PM | Link to this
I am sickened to hear of the death of one of the best drummers I have ever had the pleasure to see and meet. We moved our jazz-rock confusion band Argos to Austin in 1975 in large part because of the Electromagnets. They were even kind enough to let us sit in on their gear at Castle Creek. Bill was outgoing, friendly….and to me at age 19 the best drummer I knew that wasn’t already famous. May God’s grace and love wrap itself around Bill’s soul….and his surviving family. The don’t build them like him.
By Sig E
January 17, 2011 5:16 PM | Link to this
So so sad, life is so precious, Bill always left great impressions and what a big heart! Rest in Peace!
By John in Houston
February 16, 2011 10:25 PM | Link to this
I have been a big EJ fan for years and of course knew of Bill. In 2005, I took my young son to Gruene to go tubing and afterwards walked by Gruene Hall and heard a band playing a lunchtime show. We went inside and they had just finished their show. Bill was playing drums and I introduced myself and my son, who is a percussionist, and Bill was the most gracious guy. He gave me and my young son the memory of a lifetime and he asked my son “What type of music do you like to play”, “What kind of drums do you like?” etc. What a classy guy. Rest in peace Bill. Not a lot of guys like you. Best of luck to his wife as well.
By Cheri Howe
March 8, 2011 1:45 AM | Link to this
To you my sister in the Lord and of the Native Spirit,my heart cries and screams for you dearest Rhonda,the nature of time and time with nature does its work letting you know he is with you now,so I have discovered with my brother and father and their tragic leavings,along with the animal spirit guides,nature alone spoke to me thru trees and pheasants all things wild and free along with the wind,living on the farm did the healing along with one little kitten. I am with you my dear dear friend and always miss you.