Mink DeVille Artistfacts

1974-1986
Willy DeVilleVocals, guitar, harmonica1974-1986
Rubén SigüenzaBass1974-1978
Thomas R. "Manfred" Allen, JrDrums1974-1978
Louis X. ErlangerGuitar1975-1980
Bobby LeonardsPiano1975-1978
American rock band Mink DeVille was formed in San Francisco in 1974. Vocalist Willy DeVille, born as William Paul Borsey Jr., was the primary driving force behind the outfit.
Mink DeVille's music drew from various genres, including roots rock, soul, rhythm and blues, blues, Cajun, punk and Latin rock. Their sound was characterized by Willy DeVille's soulful and gravelly vocals combined with a gritty urban edge.
From 1975 to 1977, Mink DeVille was one of the original house bands at CBGB, the New York City nightclub where punk rock music was born in the mid-1970s. They stood out from other punk bands with their diverse sound.
The band's debut album, Cabretta, was released in 1977. Capitol Records chose the catchy track "Spanish Stroll" as the album's lead single and it reached #20 on the UK Singles Chart.
The original members of the band played only on the first two albums (Cabretta and Return to Magenta). For the remaining albums and for tours, Willy DeVille assembled musicians to play under the name Mink Deville.
Mink DeVille's commercial success declined in the 1980s. They played their last concert on February 20, 1986, in New York City. Willy DeVille continued to release solo albums and explored various musical styles.
Willy DeVille faced unforeseen health challenges in early 2009. Diagnosed with Hepatitis C, he later received additional news of pancreatic cancer. He passed away in New York City on August 6, 2009, shortly before his 59th birthday.
They never became household names, but Mink DeVille are remembered for their influential and eclectic sound. Willy DeVille's songwriting and vocal delivery left a lasting impact on those who appreciated the band's unique blend of musical styles.

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