Rock and roll star Wee Willie Harris, born Charles William Harris who inspired John Lennon and Paul McCartney has died. Harris was born on 25 March 1933 and died on Thursday, 27 April 2023 aged 90.
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Harris’ death was confirmed by Sheila, his wife of 47 years.
She told The Sun:
“He was a lovely man. A lovely husband. But it was music all the way with him.
“He was just such a brilliant man. He inspired so many – including Paul McCartney.
“He was an absolute sensation. He will be so, so missed by so many.
“He could still sing right up until the end and was always a perfect gentleman.”
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Harris began his career mixing puddings at Peek Freans’ London bakery, but after realizing he could “earn more money” singing, he decided to become a professional singer.
Later, he started playing music at The 2i’s Coffee Bar in Soho, London, where he was the piano player in residence. There, he shared the stage with artists like Tommy Steele, Adam Faith, Screaming Lord Sutch, and others.
He was chosen by TV producer Jack Good to participate in the BBC program Six-Five Special in November 1957.
His appearances on the program sparked media inquiries regarding the BBC’s alleged promotion of “teenage depravity.”
His debut single, ‘Rockin’ At the 2 I’s’, was released on the Decca label in December 1957, and was followed by several others, although none reached the UK singles chart.
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