Date of Birth: May 31, 1963
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Date of Death: August 21, 2003
Biography
Wesley Lawrence Willis was an American musician and visual artist, known for his unique contributions to the outsider music scene. Born on May 31, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, Willis began his career in the late 1980s and rose to prominence during the 1990s. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1989, and his music often touched on his experiences with the condition. Despite his challenges, Willis became a cult figure due to his distinctive style and raw, honest lyrics. His most famous songs include “Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s,” “Alanis Morissette,” and “Cut the Mullet.” Willis released several albums, both solo and with his band the Wesley Willis Fiasco. Besides music, he was also an accomplished visual artist, known for his vibrant cityscape drawings of Chicago. Wesley Willis passed away on August 21, 2003, from complications related to chronic myelogenous leukemia.
5 Interesting Facts about Wesley Willis
1. Wesley Willis was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 1989, a condition that significantly influenced his music and art.
2. He was known for his unique greeting style, often headbutting acquaintances as a form of greeting, which left a permanent mark on his forehead.
3. Willis recorded over 50 albums during his career, many of which were produced using a Technics KN keyboard.
4. He gained a cult following for his unconventional music style, which included repetitive lyrics and simple melodies.
5. In addition to his music career, Willis was a prolific visual artist, creating detailed drawings of cityscapes, particularly of Chicago.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Wesley Willis
1. “Rock over London, rock on Chicago.”
2. “I’m sorry that I got fat. I will slim down.”
3. “Schizophrenia is the worst disease you can get. It is like a demon controlling your mind.”
4. “I’m the Daddy of rock ‘n’ roll!”
5. “I have to fight demons with my music.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Wesley Willis’s net worth was estimated to be around $100,000, primarily from his music sales and art commissions.
Children
Wesley Willis did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Wesley Willis on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wesley_Willis
2. [Wesley Willis’s Discography on Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/260996-Wesley-Willis
4. [Wesley Willis’s music on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/wesley-willis-mn0000240905
