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Bubba "Whoopass" Wilson |
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During the 1980s, Burt created, scored, and produced the musical shows that were the cornerstone of the Showbiz Pizza Place chain, nationally. He also provided the loveable voice of "Fatz the Gorilla." His combination of creativity, musical talent, and comedy delighted children and adults alike. In 1984, the New Orleans World Fair opened – with the theme song, "Mardi Gras City," written by none other than Burt. His original song triumphed over compositions written by thousands of songwriters internationally, including people such as Dr. John, Aaron Neville, and Allan Toussaint. Actually, Burt had written two songs for the contest, and BOTH songs won – being awarded 1st AND 2nd place, respectively. By the early 1990s, Universal Studios, Florida, was the recipient of Burt's skills, where he was one of their showcase talents, singing and arranging music for the well-loved acapella group, "The Hollywood Hi-Tones." And, it was also here that Burt revived the character of "Bubba," to much success – so much so that the character became the inspiration for the acapella country group,"The Country Review and Bubba Too." In 2003, Burt (long-time, die-hard Beatles fan) entered his song "Southern Girl" into the nationally recognized John Lennon Songwriting Competition, and he was honored to receive "Best Runner-Up" in the Pop Category. For the past 13 years, Burt has been a musician, comedian, and an integral part of the Monsters of the Morning, the #1 hit show during the 6 a.m.-11.a.m. slot on Real Radio, 104.1 Orlando, and heard nationwide on XM SATELLITE RADIO, Channel 152. There on the Monsters, he has been stretching his comedic legs as the character we have come to know and love as Bubba "Whoopass" Wilson, resident Cajun-Florida Redneck. He daily presents unique and humorous outlooks on life in a segment called "Correct Me If I'm Wrong," as well as writing, producing, arranging, and performing over 2,000 original songs (to date) for the show. Despite his reputation of being "slow on the uptake" (or possibly BECAUSE of that fact), "Bubba" has been a source of much amusement for both the listeners of the show AND his co-workers alike. Most recently, despite the fact that it's been over 20 years, in early 2009, Burt again formed a real, honest-to-goodness rock-n-roll band who "play the absolute h*ll" out of both cover tunes and original music. Joining him in The Dogs Playing Poker are long time friends, skilled musicians, and all-around good guys. Fans will be familiar with members Jeff Howell (who has been Burt's best friend for over 30 years, and been a part of Burt's biggest successes, Clutch, Showbiz Pizza, and The Monsters) and Rick Bailey (who was also a part of Showbiz Pizza with Burt, and who has had great success on his own as a guitarist/vocalist/songwriter with local favorite bands like Heart-attack Diner, as well as major recording artists such as LFO). The Dogs are also lucky enough to have joined forces with Dan "Muddy" Walters (world-class bassist and songwriter), and Tom Holysz (long-time, well-loved powerhouse drummer in the Central Florida area). Together, they have formed a band who can not only entertain the crowd, but who genuinely have a great time on stage with each other. Their love of each other, and the music, translates to each and every show. Bubba and Jeff and The Dogs Playing Poker have been busy booking gigs well into 2009, and already have a comedy CD in the works! Through all the twists and turns, Burt has stuck close to music and laughter. He's performed in venues from Hard Rock and House of Blues, to more than one local watering hole. He's shared just about every corner of his life with thousands of fans and listeners. But, behind all of his best efforts is always Burt "Bubba" Wilson's heart-felt desire to entertain and provide laughter to those he comes into contact with, whether it be over the airwaves, on stage, or in person. |
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