Willy DeVille

The Profile

American singer-songwriter and bandleader, frontman of Mink DeVille before a rich solo career. He blended rock, R&B, blues, Latin and Tex‑Mex flavors; his Miracle album featured Mark Knopfler and included the Oscar‑nominated Storybook Love. Active from the mid‑1970s until his death in 2009.

Born William Paul Borsey Jr. (August 25, 1950, Stamford, Connecticut) — Died August 6, 2009, New York City. Frontman of Mink DeVille; notable songs include Spanish Stroll and Storybook Love (Academy Award nominee). Associated with CBGB; collaborated with artists including Mark Knopfler and Dr. John.

The reviews paint Willy DeVille as a CBGB-forged stylist who fused rock, R&B, blues, Latin and Tex‑Mex with a romantic, gypsy flair. His 1992 take on Hey Joe leans into mariachi colors, while the Live set (1993) captures his onstage grit and warmth. Miracle highlights his collaboration with Mark Knopfler and includes the Oscar-nominated Storybook Love. Pistola (2008) stands as his final studio statement. He died on August 6, 2009, in New York City.