Black History Month: Billy "Stix" Nicks entertained a generation — 1950s-2000s

Throughout the month of February, The Tribune is publishing daily facts about South Bend's Black history. Follow the series at www.southbendtribune.com.

A graduate of Central High School, Billy Nicks went on to play drums with Motown recording artist Junior Walker and his group, the All-Stars, among other notable groups. Nicks and Walker met at Central, and the two formed The Rhythm Rockers in 1954. A tireless performer whose electrifying shows inspired thousands, Billy Nicks also shared his gift by teaching. He offered private lessons and served as an adjunct music teacher at the University of Notre Dame.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: South Bend Black history facts