the_willies

The Willies are a Philly original band, formed in the 80's and deformed a few years later.  After many years and a ton o' living, the band resurrected in the 21st Century. 

Today's Willies have emerged as much more interesting band as a result of our hiatus. Rocking as kids was much different than jamming as adults. We're better, tighter and if anything, even more original. Our worldview, as expressed in song, even extends beyond the unrequited love of the girl who lives down the street. Because, honestly, that would be creepy now. 

The four songwriters in The Willies ensure that we have a divergence of styles while maintaining an aural brand. Songs about love, hate, regret, existential crisis, addiction, masochism and missed opportunities pepper our lively set. Don't worry, nothing gets too heavy. For the band, the music provides a temporary reprieve from the burdens of everyday life and we extend that feeling to our audiences.  And no one gets ear fatigue. Our mix of styles refreshes the ear holes of our listeners on every song.

While you can hear the punk and New Wave echoes in our music, you can also detect country, funk, ska, jazz and soul. Fellow musicians have called our style Rock Americana and we agree with them.  Because they're friends. It would be rude not to. 

We label ourselves as alternative because we're lazy and rock is too broad a term.  The Willies bring geezer energy and old man strength to our stage show. A couple of guitars, bass, keyboards and drums and tons of personality are on hand at every Willies gig. From big stages in Philly like the Troc and the TLA to smaller pub venues, The Willies rock. Check us out on any of the links to our music or see us live. The Willies are currently mixing our next CD and have already written most of our third. Rock on!