MANHATTAN, NY—Bill Popp has been a fixture in the New York music scene since the 1970s. Performing as Bill Popp & The Tapes since 1981, his pop rock sound has survived other passing trends, including glam rock and punk rock. Never achieving fame, he is perhaps the only artist that has continued to play the club circuit all these years. Recently retired from his day job as a plumber with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the 63-year-old rocker might be seen having a drink at The Bowery Electric, Otto’s Shrunken Head or similar bands. Anyone who hangs in the local scene knows him and loves him. That is why when he hosts his annual benefit for the American Heart Association, the local bands always donate their services.
Popp’s annual benefit is named for his late father, George “Daddy Tapes” Popp, who died of heart disease. The first benefit was held at CBGB’s on Daddy Tapes’ birthday, March 10, 1987. The benefit later moved to Kenny’s Castaways and the R Bar. The 30th Annual Birthday Tribute to the Late George L. Popp was held at The Bowery Electric on March 9, featuring the Alan Merrill Trio, the Dive Bar Romeos, The Left Banke, Ricky Byrd & Deuces Wild, Bill Popp & The Tapes and Anne Husick. Over the years, the Daddy Tapes benefits have raised thousands of dollars for charity.
Show date: March 9, 2016
