Meet Billy Steinberg’s Wife, Trina McKillen, Inside Her Journey As A Renowned Fine Art Photographer

Billy Steinberg has recently passed away on February 16, 2026. The popular songwriter’s work in various singles was praised over the years. Billy Steinberg’s lyrics were well-received by the audience alongside his collaboration with Tom Kelly. Apart from his work in music, Billy Steinberg was also featured in a documentary, Sticky: A (Self) Love Story, which was released back in 2016. Back in 2008, Billy received a Golden Palm Star at the Palm Springs Walk of Stars and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame with Tom Kelly in 2011.

Billy was battling cancer for a long time, which reportedly led to his death. The news was first revealed by Billy’s attorney, Laurie Soriano. Laurie described Billy as an “American treasure” whose lyrics moved millions of people worldwide. For the unversed, Billy Steinberg was married to fine art photographer and former music video stylist, Trina McKillen. Billy and Trina also had two children. Keep reading to know more about Trina and her relationship with Billy.

Trina McKillen grew up in a place that was badly affected by war

Trina McKillen was a resident of West Belfast during her childhood. The area witnessed a worse situation during the ‘70s as it had changed into a war-affected zone, leading to bombings, gun battles, and more. Trina once recalled in an interview with Business Post in 2019 that she had to avoid being hit by bullets while returning home from school, and the one place that provided safety was the Catholic Church in Andersonstown. Trina and her family later shifted to Dublin. Notably, Trina was 11 years old at that time.

Trina McKillen started her journey at a graphic design studio

Trina McKillen completed her primary education at a convent school, following which she joined the National College of Art and Design in 1984. Following her graduation in 1989, Trina moved to Los Angeles, California. She first joined a graphic design studio, where she created large-scale sculptures. Trina told the Business Post in 2019 that she was specifically interested in making giant lipsticks. However, she decided to establish herself in the movie or music industry since there was not enough demand for artists and designers.

Trina McKillen expanded her career to the entertainment industry

While Trina McKillen was searching for a better opportunity, she discovered a creative director and designer named Alex McDowell. Alex had an experience of working with popular personalities like Steven Spielberg and Tim Burton. Trina started working as an assistant for Alex. She later became a production designer and art director, following which she had a chance of working on movies, commercials, and music videos for songs released by singers like Madonna. 

Trina McKillen has been active in the world of arts for many years

Although Trina had the opportunity to work in the music and entertainment industry, she shifted to the world of fine art photography after the birth of her son, Ezra. Trina’s official website says that her work features tension between fragile, vulnerable beauty and the threat of violence or exploitation. Trina has said on her website that she witnessed two different lives during her childhood, where she felt safe inside her house and scared outside. Trina stated that she has a close connection to this theme. A few of her artworks that feature this theme are The Children and Bless Me Child For I Have Sinned.

Who was Billy Steinberg?

Billy Steinberg’s career in the music industry started after he established a group called Billy Thermal. However, the band broke up, and Billy shifted to songwriting, joining Tom Kelly in 1981. While Billy’s collaboration with Tom made him famous among the audience, he also worked with other songwriters such as Rick Nowels, Josh Alexander, and Porcelain Black. Billy had many songs to his credit, including Alone, I Drove All Night, Falling into You, One & One, What Happened to Us, Give Your Heart a Break, Like a Virgin, So Emotional, and more.

What are your thoughts about Billy Steinberg’s career over the years and his personal life? Let us know.

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