Billy Sheehan and Mr. Big Announce “The Big Finish” World Tour

Five years after the loss of drummer and co-founder Pat Torpey, Mr. Big has announced a new world tour called “The Big Finish.” Their extended goodbye run will feature the band performing the album Lean Into It, including the smash hit “To Be With You” in its entirety.

“We wanted to do a proper farewell, and this seems like the right way to do it,” says bassist Billy Sheehan.

The announced tour dates are set for this summer in Asia. They kick off July 20th in Nagoya, Japan, and will head to Korea, China, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Additional dates in the United States, South America, and Europe are coming next year.

The lineup of Sheehan, guitarist Paul Gilbert, and vocalist Eric Martin will be filled out by drummer Nick D’Virgilio of Spock’s Beard and Big Big Train. While Torpey’s spot in the band can never be truly filled, Sheehan says D’Virgilio is the perfect fit.

“We found a wonderful drummer in Nick, and he’s got a great voice, too,” he explains. “Nick has a vocal range similar to Pat’s, and he’ll be able to do the parts Pat did with a similar finesse. It’s a big relief because MR. BIG has always been heavy on the harmonies. When the band began, we really relied on each other. We knew each guy would do exactly what he needed to do vocally and to do it righteously, on key, and in time. It’s difficult to find a drummer who sings in that range, but Nick has the voice we really need onstage.”

Lean Into It went Platinum after its release in 1991 with “To Be With You” becoming a #1 hit single around the world. Sheehan describes the album like a movie with different scenes, and Martin agrees the record was more than just the popularity of one song.

“That song helped put the stamps in our passports,” Martin allows, “but we really nailed it on ‘Lean Into It.’ I’m still in awe of how Billy and Paul play on that album, because they’re such brilliant players. I used to call them the dynamic duo. And Pat Torpey was an underrated drummer, in my opinion. I mean, just listen to his tone! ‘Lean Into It’ is totally indicative of who we are as a band.”

We’ll keep you updated on more dates as they become available.

Mr. Big “The Big Finish” Tour Dates 2023: