There are several performers who used the name "Billy Barlow." It was the stage name of Sam Cowell, 1820-1864, known for the Cutty Wren type of song. No evidence that he used De Blue Tail Fly prior to the song's introduction in the States. The stage name derived from the song "Billy Barlow," sung by a minstrel named Wills in the 1830s.

Another famous minstrel, "Billy" Barlow, (1850- 1914), performed all over the world. His home was in Arkansas.

There is no printed evidence of "De Blue Tail Fly" by C. H. Keith (?) before 1846, although it is claimed to be earlier. . There are threads on this song, and the 1846 words have been posted ("O when you come in summer time, to South Carolinar's sultry clime,..."). The chorus, "Jimmie Crack Corn," was a separate song, published in 1846, sung by the Virginia Minstrels.

I can't find a "Billy" Barlow who died in 1904.