Working with Sheryl Crow has given Billy B. insight into what makeup artistry is really all about.		November 1, 2003 American Salon
	One of the perks of being a makeup artist is the opportunity to let your creativity run free. But you have to always keep in mind the client's needs. There is always an aspect of "theater" in doing celebrities. Sometimes you can experiment and create looks that are over the top. Looks for award shows and TV appearances have an entertainment value to them. Yes, celebrities want to try new things, but we also have to uphold their integrity as artists. I recently learned more about the integrity of a true artist by working with a new client, Sheryl Crow. Sheryl is a triple threat-a songwriter, singer, and musician. With her timeless talent, I approached her makeup in the same vain. Although she's always modern looking, she's never trendy. I wanted to give her a look that would stand the test of time. I look at my relationships with all of my clients in the public eye with the responsibility of helping them create a legacy they will be proud of. I went with something more understated for a live performance featured on a DVD coming out this December. It was simple and beautiful, but more importantly it worked with who she is as a person and as an artist. It would have been inappropriate to make her up in the mod trend of the moment for an outdoor venue in Ohio packed with diehard fans. On the other hand, there are celebs out there who have changed their style to something that seems out of character. In a business driven by pop, I respect artists reinventing themselves and taking risks. However, their core fan base cares less about a superficial image than their craft. If a musician has real talent that stands the test of time, I can't help but wonder why she should jeopardize invalidating herself. Sometimes celebrities and clients need a push in the right direction. If you're a stylist with a client who is a trial lawyer, you'd be making a big mistake giving her a mullet with platinum blonde highlights. It's our responsibility as image-makers to try to guide clients into a look that is appropriate for them but that's modern and the best version of them that they can be. A lot of times they have things in mind that they think they want. Often it is our job not only to make clients happy but also to protect them from themselves. As for my future with Sheryl, I hope it's a long one. Working with such an amazing artist and strong woman makes my job easier. I just enhance what comes naturally.		Look out for Sheryl Crow's new CD, The Very Best of Sheryl Crow, with classic hits and some new ones.