366Art | Willy DeVille

Today, August 25th, is the birthday of Willy DeVille, an iconic singer-songwriter with an eclectic musical style. The edit above and his portrait on the musical birthday calendar/reference work below were made by me, Frieke.

Willy DeVille was born as William Paul Borsey Jr. on August 25, 1950, in Stamford, Connecticut. He grew up in a working-class family with French-Canadian and Irish roots. His youth was marked by an early fascination with music, especially the rock 'n' roll and soul music of the 1950s and 1960s. His interest in various music styles and subcultures would later have a significant influence on his career.

In 1974, Willy founded the band Mink DeVille, with which he gained international fame. The band was known for their unique mix of rock, punk, soul, R&B, Latin, and blues, and played an important role in the music of the late 1970s and early 1980s, especially in the New York music scene. Mink DeVille was founded in San Francisco, but truly found its place when the band moved to New York City. There, they became one of the house bands at CBGB, the legendary club that was the epicenter of the punk and new wave movement. Their debut album Cabretta (1977) contains the single Cadillac Walk and Spanish Stroll, which became an international hit. The album had an energetic mix of styles and is often regarded as one of the band's best works. Other well-known albums by Mink DeVille include Return to Magenta (1978), a second album with a more subdued, soulful approach. Le Chat Bleu (1980), featuring the iconic track Heaven Stood Still  is considered one of Mink DeVille's most ambitious albums, incorporating influences from French chanson and Cajun music into their sound. The albums Coup de Grâce (1981) and Where Angels Fear to Tread (1983) had a more polished production and diversity in style.

After the dissolution of Mink DeVille in the 1980s, Willy DeVille continued his solo career and released several iconic hits, including Storybook Love (1987), which was nominated for an Academy Award as part of the soundtrack for the film The Princess Bride; Hey Joe (1992); Come to Poppa (1992); You Better Move On (1990); and Demasiado Corazon (Too Much Heart)," re-recorded in 1993.

DeVille led a tumultuous life. He was known for his intense and passionate live performances and his eccentric style of dress. With his voice, often described as soulful and seasoned, he was able to convey a wide range of emotions.

Willy DeVille passed away on August 6, 2009, from pancreatic cancer in New York City. His death was a great loss to the music community. His work is still cherished for its originality and emotional depth. Although he may never have reached the mainstream popularity that some of his contemporaries enjoyed, he still has a loyal following.