A while back Willie gave me a recording of himself, Izzy Davila and Jose "Jose Conga" Rivera playing a "Guiro" that was recorded on 11/17/2007. This recording was never meant to be shared with anyone. With the recent passing of Willie Everich and the earlier passing of Izzy Davila (2009), I wanted to share this little gem to showcase their talents. Willie was never one to brag about his abilities and would rather highlight other players/rumberos/talents.
This particular set up has Izzy Davila singing lead and playing guataca. Willie Everich is playing shekere and singing coro. Jose Rivera is playing caja and singing coro, that's it. No more singers/players! One thing Willie told me a while back which stood out is that he felt that his ability to sing and play simultaneously was the main factor that kept him working for so long. Willie told me that he felt that other players were more gifted than him but it was his ability to do the job of two men that kept him busy.
I have shared two clips below that I hope you will enjoy.
One of my favorite, most energetic group of drummers which are masters over several Caribbean styles of drumming...here is a few videos I found on YOUTUBE. It's been a while.
Most that have been following the blog for some time have known of William Everich, personally or through the website. I have had the pleasure of knowing Willie personally. I have been to his house, I have eaten his food, I have hung out with him, and spoken with him countless times. Also you may have noticed that the blog has been dormant for quite some time. Along with several changes in my life as well as some issues that surfaced among Willie and myself, I just pretty much left the blogosphere.
All this to say, that Willie was a very straight forward cat and pretty much said what was on his mind, and let the chips fall where they may. This may not have won him friends, but it did win him the respect of most, myself included. I lost touch with Willie and only knew of his passing through another friend, Felix Sanabria. Out of the blue Felix called me the other day and made me aware of Willie's passing. It is with great regret, sadness, and a mix of emotions that I feel compelled to write this right now.
Willie's sphere of influence was vast. He was down to earth and extremely approachable in every aspect. He didn't mince words and let you know how he felt. His sincerity is what I will miss most. Needless to say that this blog would not even exist if it weren't for his influence, knowledge, and dedication. He was truly one of a kind. A true son of the Bronx. It is difficult to write more at this time, so I will leave you with some videos that have probably been posted before.
If you didn't know Willie, you missed out, nuff said.
