David McWilliams (musician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David McWilliams
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | David Samuel McWilliams |
| Born | 4 July 1945 Belfast, County Antrim, Northern Ireland |
| Died | 8 January 2002 (aged 56) Ballycastle, County Antrim, Northern Ireland |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar |
| Years active | 1965–1980s |
| Labels | CBS Major Minor Dawn EMI Kapp (USA) |
David Samuel McWilliams (born 4 July 1945 – died 8 January 2002) was a talented singer, songwriter, and guitarist from Northern Ireland. He is best known for his famous 1967 song, "Days of Pearly Spencer".
Contents
David McWilliams' Early Life and Music Journey
David McWilliams was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. When he was three years old, his family moved to Ballymena. As a teenager, David started playing the guitar and writing his own songs. After finishing college in 1963, he began working at a missile factory. He also started a local band called the Coral Showband. David was also a good football player. He even had a tryout as a goalkeeper for the team Linfield.
A music expert named Phil Solomon heard David's songs. Solomon had worked with famous bands like Them. He helped David get a record deal with CBS Records. Later, David signed with Solomon's own label, Major Minor. David also became good friends with songwriter Dominic Behan, who helped him focus on his music.
The Hit Song: "Days of Pearly Spencer"
David McWilliams' first album came out in 1967. It was called David McWilliams Singing Songs by David McWilliams. It did well, reaching number 38 on the UK album charts. Soon after, he released his second album, David McWilliams Volume 2. This album featured his most famous song, "Days of Pearly Spencer".
The song "Days of Pearly Spencer" was inspired by a homeless man David met in Ballymena. The song had a special sound, with a sweeping orchestra. The vocals in the chorus sounded like they were sung through a megaphone. This cool effect was actually made by recording David's voice from a phone booth near the studio!
The song became a huge hit in many European countries. It sold over a million copies worldwide. It was a Top 10 hit in places like France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. However, it didn't make it onto the UK charts. This was because the BBC (a big UK radio station) refused to play it. They didn't like that Phil Solomon had links to "pirate radio" stations. Pirate radio stations broadcasted without a license. Because of this, and some business problems, David didn't make much money from the song's success.
"Days of Pearly Spencer" has been covered by many artists. An Italian singer, Caterina Caselli, recorded it in 1968. A Spanish version was made in 1979. In 1992, Marc Almond released a version that became a big hit in the UK and Ireland.
Later Career and Legacy
David McWilliams released more albums and singles after his big hit. He toured a lot in Europe, especially in Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands. He even re-recorded some of his songs in Italian. It is said that the famous musician David Bowie once called David McWilliams his favorite songwriter!
In 1978, David moved back to Northern Ireland. He performed less often, mostly in local bars. He also played at some special events, like a concert to help striking miners in 1984. A collection of his songs, The Days of David McWilliams, was released in 2001.
David McWilliams sadly passed away suddenly from a heart attack on 8 January 2002. He was 56 years old. He was married twice and had eight children. His music continues to be remembered, especially his unique and popular song, "Days of Pearly Spencer."
Discography
David McWilliams released many albums and singles during his career. Here are some of his notable albums:
- Singing Songs by David McWilliams (1967) – This album reached number 38 in the UK.
- David McWilliams Volume 2 (1967) – This album included "Days of Pearly Spencer" and reached number 23 in the UK.
- Days Of Pearly Spencer - Who Killed Ezra Brymay (1968)
- David McWilliams Volume 3 (1968) – This album reached number 39 in the UK.
- Lord Offaly (1972)
- The Beggar and the Priest (1973)
- Livin's Just A State of Mind (1974)
- David McWilliams (1977)
- Don't Do It For Love (1978)
- When I Was A Dancer (1979)
- Wounded (1981)
- Working for the Government (1987)
- Bucket Full of Dreams (1995)
- Using Me (2003)
