Mr. Big

The Profile

Mr. Big is an American hard rock band formed in 1989, known for a blend of virtuoso musicianship and melodic songwriting, and for the hit ballad “To Be With You.”

Publicly known: formed in 1989; classic lineup Eric Martin (vocals), Paul Gilbert (guitar), Billy Sheehan (bass), Pat Torpey (drums). Ritchie Kotzen served as guitarist after Gilbert’s departure. They are widely associated with hard rock and ’90s popularity, including strong success in Japan.

The reviews portray Mr. Big as a ’90s hard rock band built on virtuosity, melody, and crowd-pleasing songwriting. Core praise goes to the classic lineup (Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan, Pat Torpey), with special love for albums like “Hey Man!” and “Lean Into It.” The Kotzen era is discussed as divisive: strong moments exist, but several reviewers miss the Gilbert-era energy. Japan is repeatedly highlighted as central to their live legacy (Budokan, Tokyo recordings) and popularity. Ballads (“To Be With You,” “Just Take My Heart”) are acknowledged as hits, sometimes criticized as syrupy compared to the heavier staples.