Old Guestbook
Guestbook (430 entries, 2002–2014)

This is the preserved old guestbook for David McWilliams, cherished by fans from all over the world.

Entry 430
Name: jack marr  |  Country: scotland
loved davids music since 1960s
Friday, January 31st 2014
Entry 429
Name: Henk Binnendijk  |  Country: Netherlands  |  henkbinnendijk9@ziggo.nl
For me David was (maybe) the greatest songwriter of my time. Especially if you have studied the Irish history, the troubles in Nothern Ireland or Ulster. I remember that - in the late sixties - the London red doubledeckers with the commercial slogan "Come on with David McWilliams". In those days I bought my first album, enhanced by the lyrics and the deepness of his songs. "For God and my country" was my favorite one. Still I listen to David's recordings, the lyrics of "Lady Margaret" still give me cold shivers. Unhappily cheated by those record companies with dollar-signs in their eyes. This kind hearted man and simplicity wre never recognised. Out of his lyrics and with some deep thinking one can conclude that he must have a fantastic father and husband. Henk Binnendijk.
Saturday, November 30th 2013
Entry 428
Name: john cromb  |  Country: USA  |  scotswhahae@vermontel.net
before leaving my native home of Glasgow, Scotland I was a fan of david McWilliams, lost touch with the music, but renewed my folk music background. and was sad to hear he died at such a early age, we were born in the year 1945. why do the good one's die young. John
Tuesday, November 26th 2013
Entry 427
Name: shiloh noone  |  Country: South Africa  |  shilohnoone@gmail.com
David McWilliams is my hero forever and regularly features on my radio show, never forgotten ...Redundancy Blues prophetic for the times...America America ??
Friday, October 18th 2013
Entry 426
Name: Fred Gregg  |  Country: United Kingdom  |  Fredrg@virginmedia.com
Just transferring David McWiiliams from vinyl to MP3 and thought I would look David up on Wikipedia. I am devastated to think that he went so young. So much talent and so many memories of my youth. Rather belatedly RIP David.
Wednesday, October 16th 2013
Entry 425
Name: davy sloan  |  Country: northern ireland  |  davidsloan108@yahoo.co.uk
great singersongwriter great company to be with
Monday, October 7th 2013
Entry 424
Name: Graham Browning  |  Country: Canada  |  grahamvbrowning@gmail.com
I didn't know Davis McWilliams was Irish, and I never realised Days of Pearly Spencer" wasn't a hit in the UK where I grew up. It was a hit in my house, because I think my elder brother bought the single when we were on a camping holiday en famille in the duty-free principality of Andorra. Just now I picked up my guitar and started playing the chords of what I eventually recognised (sort of) as "Harlem lady", one of the first songs I learnt on guitar, from my brother's extensive singles collection. Two beautiful songs, and I'm sad to hear the writer died one year younger than I am today.
Monday, September 30th 2013
Entry 423
Name: Luigi Stronati  |  Country: Italy  |  luigistronati@gmail.com
Hi, I was born back in 1952, and only by chance I heard "The Days of Pearly Spencer" on Radio Luxembourg in 1967. I was enchanted by what in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful songs ever. I didn't know David was from NI Co.Antrim, I very often come there, since I have an old friend in Ballybogey Ballymoney. In 1969 I met my actual wife, who was really fond of the same song and we started our 45 year relationship singing together the song, without knowing a word. We would love to meet Gil and talk to her about David. Would be possible to have her e-mail? Thank you very much Luigi & Antonella
Monday, September 9th 2013
Entry 422
Name: Luigi Stronati  |  Country: Italy  |  luigistronati@gmail.com
Hi, I was born back in 1952, and only by chance I heard "The Days of Pearly Spencer" on Radio Luxembourg in 1967. I was enchanted by what in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful songs ever. I didn't know David was from NI Co.Antrim, I very often come there, since I have an old friend in Ballybogey Ballymoney. In 1969 I met my actual wife, who was really fond of the same song and we started our 45 year relationship singing together the song, without knowing a word. We would love to meet Gil and talk to her about David. Would be possible to have her e-mail? Thank you very much Luigi & Antonella
Monday, September 9th 2013
Entry 421
Name: Gerald Murray  |  Country: N.Ireland  |  geraldmurray@btinternet.com
Listened to David on Sounds of the Sixties with Brian Matthews, Radio 2. It reminded me of the times I met and chatted to David when we were young and he visited Antrim town where I lived. He was a gentle and humane man.
Sunday, June 30th 2013
Entry 420
Name: Mike Hawkes  |  Country: Manchester England  |  m.hawkes60@ntlworld.com
Unfortunelately I can only relate to David with his ICONIC song 'The Day's Of Pearly Spencer', this was a forerunner to The Street's Of London (Ralph McTell) and Where Do You Go To My Lovely (Peter Sarstedt), the last two were very big hits here in England, sadly David's record wasn't, but should have been,only for the fact that the BBC would not play it because of his back room's staff association with pirate radio, which was a format that the BBC would take as they were losing out on listeners to pirate radio. Thankfully it was a very big hit all over the rest of Europe. Sadly David did not get the credit that he fully deserves, but at least his legacy lives on in all parts of the world. R.I.P. David
Sunday, June 23rd 2013
Entry 419
Name: Matthew David Bray  |  Country: Ireland  |  mdbray1@mail.com
Just rediscovered David after all these years. Brilliant.....that's all I can say. RIP, you magnificent bastard.
Wednesday, June 19th 2013
Entry 418
Name: Eberhard Korn  |  Country: Germany  |  eberkorn@hotmail.com
a great singer and a great person. thank you for your music. rest in peace. god bless you. you'll be never forgotten, always alive in our hearts and souls. immortality.
Tuesday, June 18th 2013
Entry 417
Name: James McCaig  |  Country: Australia  |  jv.mccaig@bigpond.com
Teenage friend of Davy.
Tuesday, June 11th 2013
Entry 416
Name: Philip Varotsis  |  Country: Greece  |  pvarotsis@yahoo.com
He was a great songwriter and musician.The days of pearly spencer was not only one of ten 10 best irish songs but one of the ten best songs of pop-rock music ever!!!
Thursday, June 6th 2013
Entry 415
Name: Shane  |  Country: Australia  |  remarcsd@netscape.net
Heard "The Days of Pearly Spencer' on the radio tonight (May 23, 2013) here in Victoria, Australia. I recall hearing it a long time ago but never new anything about the song or artist. Such an evocative and beautiful song. As a musically untalented person, I am in awe of those who can string lyrics and music together is any fashion, let alone being able to convey so much atmosphere in such a simple manner. shane
Thursday, May 23rd 2013
Entry 414
Name: Jimmy McCaig  |  Country: Australia  |  jv.mccaig@bigpond.com
Just downloaded Working for the Government album, just loving it.
Friday, May 17th 2013
Entry 413
Name: colin  |  Country: ireland  |  sherwoodcolin1000@gmail.com
dearest heart..
Tuesday, May 14th 2013
Entry 412
Name: Lynn Mortimore  |  Country: Canada  |  lynnjm@rogers.com
The Days of Pearly Spencer is such a wonderful, wonderful song - quite haunting. Thank you for this music.
Sunday, April 14th 2013
Entry 411
Name: Bob Levis  |  Country: Usa  |  Levis4402@yahoo.com
Thanks.
Friday, April 5th 2013
Entry 410
Name: Ken Maltby  |  Country: Canada  |  kenmal@shaw.ca
A sad loss - too early in his life - but what a wonderful legacy of songs he has left behind
Sunday, March 31st 2013
Entry 409
Name: Rudolf Boeckmann  |  Country: Germany  |  hoheburg@freenet.de
This ist one of the best and brightest songs forever. David has thus an eternal monument and would deserve much more recognition.
Friday, March 29th 2013
Entry 408
Name: Nick Wroughton  |  Country: England  |  nicholaswroughton@googlemail.com
I suffered a bad,life-threatening accident in 2003.Legacy-a broken rt thigh that's stubbornly refused to heal and right-arm tendons that now operate different fingers to those that nature originally intended them to.Add a plastic wristbone remaining from a coalmining accident back in '79.However I've started again to write songs and play the shedload of quality stringed fretted instruments bought from years of mining/mental health nursing and underpinned by a deep love of David's music.As a minority area striker I didn't know that he'd been supportive of the miners in '84,but if a voice/demeanour can give any clue re a person's inherent goodness,it comes as no surprise to me.I've searched long/hard for the Dawn records and treasure the Major Minor ones that I have.I regularly include 'Pearly' when I play-how relevant it remains in 'Food-Bank Britain'.Others have said it so much better but bless you David.You were one of the very best.
Tuesday, March 12th 2013
Entry 407
Name: Peter van Kan  |  Country: Holland  |  laylaforever@hotmail.com
Always loved David's hits as a kid, back in the sixties. Now a singer/songwriter myself, I appreciate his music all the more. Thanks for keeping his music alive. All the best to his family. PS If ever there's another event honoring David, let me know.
Tuesday, January 29th 2013
Entry 406
Name: Roy Henderson  |  Country: England  |  roysiaboy@aol.com
Having heard 'Pearly Spencer' many times on radio I decided today to google the artist. How interesting that was, especially as I am from Coleraine, near Ballymena and I never dreamed that the author and I have a shared background. Will now listen to more of his work and look forward to doing so.
Tuesday, January 29th 2013
Entry 405
Name: Petros  |  Country: Greece  |  gratedoc@otenet.gr
A part of our live s soundtrack....fond memories of youth,thanks David.....
Sunday, January 27th 2013
Entry 404
Name: Jason Egan  |  Country: Ireland  |  Jasonegan270476@gmail.com
Just heard David for the first time on you tube and sadly a talent gone too soon
Sunday, January 20th 2013
Entry 403
Name: Pete McDonnell  |  Country: Wales  |  petermcd26@hotmail.com
David, thinking of you on this sad day. Thank you for your friendship and the great times we had. Nights at the Fourways, at your house listening to demo tracks of God and my Country / Pearly Spencer, summer evenings playing football, and drinks/domino's Saturday afternoon. Most of all, sincere thanks for the superb music you left us. You may not be here, but you live on in your songs. Rest in peace.
Tuesday, January 8th 2013
Entry 402
Name: Jean Williquet  |  Country: Thailand  |  jeanwilliquet@yahoo.com
I will always like that song. Congrats on that and the 8 children ...
Monday, December 3rd 2012
Entry 401
Name: Rieks  |  Country: Nederland  |  korterk@hetnet.nl
#----------------------------------PLEASE NOTE--------------------------------# #This file is the author's own work and represents their interpretation of the# #song. You may only use this file for private study, scholarship, or research.# #-----------------------------------------------------------------------------# Anyone else remember this non-hit by David McWilliams? It reached #2 in Albany, NY - where the WPTR-AM production staff even concocted a parody version, 'Days of Mark Allen', about one of their DJs - but it apparently wasn't a hit anywhere else in the US, since the best it could do nationally was to squeak onto the bottom rung of Billboard's _Bubbling Under_ chart for a single week in June, 1968. Notes: 1) the Grass Roots covered it on one of their albums; 2) according to net.correspondent Maurizio Codogno, it was a hit in Italy (as _Il Volto Della Vita_) for Caterina Caselli; 3) the filtered vocal on the chorus - not to mention the subject matter - predated _Aqualung_ by about three years; 4) Marc Almond's remake was a big hit in the UK in 1992; his version features an extra verse: A tenement, a dirty street Remember worn and shoeless feet Remember how you stood to beat The way your life had gone So Pearly don't you shed more tears For those best forgotten years Those tenements are memories Of where you've risen from "Days of Pearly Spencer" (David McWilliams) Intro: Am (strings alone first two bars; w/arpeggiated guitar next two bars; w/bass and drums next two bars and into verse) Verse 1: Am A tenement, a dirty street Em Walked and worn by shoeless feet Am In silence long and so complete C G Watched by a shivering sun Old eyes in a small child's face Watching as the shadows race Through walls and cracks that leave no trace And daylight's brightness shun Chorus (w/filtered vocal): Dm Em Am The days of Pearly Spencer Dm Em Am Ahh..ahh the race is almost run Verse 2: Nose pressed hard on frosted glass Gazing as the swollen mass On concrete fields where grows no grass Stumbles blindly on Iron trees smother the air But, withering, they stand and stare Through eyes that neither know nor care Where the grass has gone [repeat chorus] Verse 3: Pearly, where's your milk-white skin What's that stubble on your chin It's buried in the rotgut gin You've played and lost, not won You played a house that can't be beat Now look, your head's bowed in defeat You walked too far along the street Where only rats can run [repeat chorus; fade 2nd time] -- another ace 60's tab from Andrew Rogers
Sunday, November 25th 2012
Entry 400
Name: Terje Solbakken  |  Country: Norway  |  terjekonradsolbakken@gmail.com
In 1967, The Days of Pearly Spencer, entered a Top Ten programme on the norwegian radio as a new-comer, and it went straight to the top. I have loved that song ever since, and I need to hear it at least once a week. When I sit down with my guitar I often play that song and think back to that day in 1967. David has many other good songs as well, and it is so sad that he has passed away. It would have been so great to meet him, give him a hug and say Thank You.
Tuesday, October 30th 2012
Entry 399
Name: Tonio  |  Country: France  |  onzeaout@hotmail.fr
He's in my heart since the 70's, as I always enjoyed 'The days of Pearly Spencer'. As far as I remember, my parents were listening to him on the radio and this song really impressed me since I was a child. Beautiful talent and spirit. I miss him, really I do. Kisses to all his friends and family.
Monday, October 15th 2012
Entry 398
Name: Graham Leicester  |  Country: U/K  |  g.leicester@btinternet.com
I brought the first album
Sunday, September 2nd 2012
Entry 397
Name: Thomas Struszka  |  Country: United States  |  mgd@onart.com
The Stranger is one of the most intelligent songs I have ever heard. Too sad it has been widely ignored. I adore it.
Wednesday, July 18th 2012
Entry 396
Name: Michael David Dineen  |  Country: UK  |  mdineen@live.co.uk
David's first album was also one of the first albums I bought when I was 15 years old. I played it endlessly in my bedroom and went on to buy his next two albums. Rest in peace David.
Sunday, July 15th 2012
Entry 395
Name: Jean-Harry Etzensperger  |  Country: Switzerland  |  h.famboetz@bluewin.ch
I still enjoy this embrassing warm music & smiling against the wind! - Great music!
Monday, June 4th 2012
Entry 394
Name: Jimmy Wheeldon  |  Country: ENGLAND  |  jimmywheeldon@gmail.com
I am big fan of David's. I am a hater of Comic Sans. Please let me redesign the site... Please...please Thanks Jimmy
Tuesday, May 8th 2012
Entry 393
Name: cor van nispen  |  Country: netherlands  |  grunn1953@mail.com
haven t been at this marvellous tributesite for quite a while now but very pleased to see it is still going strong.after living in the erzgebirge germanie for about eight years i am now trying to raise the money for recording and releasing a tribute album in which lyriks and music from DM are almost litterally translated in dutch.i think the beauty of his lyriks should be availlable to more people in order to create a bigger understanding of the complexity and beauty thereoff greetins and keeping you posted about my efforts cor van nispen
Sunday, April 22nd 2012
Entry 392
Name: Jimmy McCaig  |  Country: Australia  |  jimmac23@tpg.com.au
Davy & I were close friends back in the late 50's - mid 60's, we played football on the Rectory field. I remember him getting his first real guitar, a spanish that his sister bought him. He used to sit out on his front garden wall and pick out a tune. I remember another young man, I think his name was Michael Devlin & he used to teach Davy some chords. Anyway time just passed away & our lives took us in different directions, I emigrated to Australia with my wife Sheena & our four children & we lost contact with Davy & all of my other friends who played for the Rectory Rangers and lived in the Rectory estate. I was very sad to hear of his passing, but he has left a legacy in his music, I've just recently discovered his music and love it. I 'm sure his family must be very proud of their Dad & his achievements. My best wishes to his family. Writing this little note brings back many memories that could not be written here, of the fun we all had when we were young and Elvis & Buddy Holly were the stars of the day.
Tuesday, March 27th 2012
Entry 391
Name: ian  |  Country: u.k.  |  ianm-w@dircon.co.uk
When in a childrens home in the late 60's I had a copy of David McWilliams simply called David McWilliams with the likes os of The Days of Pealy Spencer but if memory serves me well the cover was predominately red and I do not recognise any of the covers on this web site and I believe it was his first release in the U.K. Can anyone assist in tracking this recording as I would like to get a copy of it to prove to my wife he existed and the quality of the music he produced. Any assistance would be gratefully appreciated Regards Ian
Sunday, March 18th 2012
Entry 390
Name: Nico Divito  |  Country: Ireland  |  nicodivito@hotmail.com
Friday, March 16th 2012
Entry 389
Name: Leslie McAllister  |  Country: England  |  lesliemcallister@aol.com
I was very sad to discover that David was no more, but he has his immortality through his songs and recordings. I had the great good fortune to see David at the Festival Hall in London in the 1970s (by chance, I spotted the show advertised on the wall of Liverpool Street tube station!). A wonderful evening, a priceless memory. I hope that some music company will re-release his evocative "Lord of Offaly" album. My vinyl version must be unplayable now! Another great Ulsterman!
Friday, March 9th 2012
Entry 388
Name: Pete McDonnell  |  Country: Wales  |  petermcd26@hotmail.com
A sad month, but your wonderful music is still with us, as it will always be. Your friendship like your music, brings back happy memories of the great times we had in and around Ballymena, drinking, playing football and talking about your music, your brilliant music. Thoughts are with Gill, and the children at this time of year. Rest in peace David.
Saturday, January 14th 2012
Entry 387
Name: Martin Kruegel  |  Country: Germany  |  clouddozer@t-online.de
10 years ago David passed away, far too early. I hope there are still many people who remember him as one excellent singer / songwriter. May he have found his peace!
Sunday, January 8th 2012
Entry 386
Name: Bryan McMahon  |  Country: Ireland  |  bryanmcmahon1@gmail.com
Been listening to David since 1999! Truly magnificent, totally underrated and sadly missed.
Thursday, December 22nd 2011
Entry 385
Name: bapkennedy.com  |  Country: ireland  |  lonelystreetdiscs@yahoo.co.uk
hi there...I need to get my hands on a recording of "piece of string" so i can learn it for a tribute concert in 2012 thanks bap
Wednesday, December 14th 2011
Entry 384
Name: sean  |  Country: france  |  maccaferri@live.com
I thought this was for david mcwilliams the gypsy jazz guitarist
Thursday, December 8th 2011
Entry 383
Name: Maggie Kempster  |  Country: United Kingdom  |  maggieanne@tallktalk.net
David was one of my all time favourite singer/songwriters. I bought his first two albums in the late sixties and still have them now. He had the most beautiful voice and his songs always struck a chord with me. Sorely missed.
Tuesday, November 22nd 2011
Entry 382
Name: Victor Erwin  |  Country: England  |  gillianerwin@tiscali.com
I was so sad to hear of Davids passing. I was born and raised in Ballymena and as a young lad was so proud of Davids achievements which were often written about in the Ballymena Times. My brother worked at Pat Connollys bar on Broughshane Street which was one of Davids watering holes. My fondest memories of him was playing football for Connollys Bar in the summer knockout competition on the football pitch which backed onto the army barracks. This site is a fine tribute to a man who should have gained greater recognition but was still happy mixing in among the ordinary lads.
Friday, November 11th 2011
Entry 381
Name: Ju Zamrazil  |  Country: Eschborn, Germany  |  deproedv@deproedv.eu
I just watched the Wicki-Article about D. McWilliams after I had the moment lessoning his famous song 'Days of pearly Spencer'. Still today a great song, even if situation in Northern Ireland have slightly changed. People stop war in N. Ireland.
Wednesday, November 9th 2011
Entry 380
Name: oliver jung-kostick  |  Country: germany  |  oliverjung1@gmx.de
thank you very much for this site...i fell in love with david's song "pearly" when i was a little boy. i remember it becoming a hit for the second time in 1975. it was re-released in germany as a single. then i bought my first d.mcw. lp, which was a compilation containing songs from his first three albums. the next was "by the lights of cyrian", which was played quite often on german radio. and finally i was haunted by a track called "circles" - which i did not have the slightest idea was a track by david... by now i have bought everything i could lay my hands on as cd and am continually thrilled by the quality of david's work (as a singer or songwriter). how can he be so underrated when his stellar talent is so obvious?
Wednesday, October 12th 2011
Entry 379
Name: johnny gunn  |  Country: usa  |  jag6743 @yahoo.com
i bbought the ablum perlie spencer when i lived in san deigo,ca unusual songs but i enjoyed them even if my freinds didn't this was in the mid seventies didn'tknow that he had made any other music will see if i can get this album thanks
Monday, August 29th 2011
Entry 378
Name: Donnalee  |  Country: Canada  |  donnalee_hill@yahoo.ca
I remember this Pearly Spencer song so well and heard it on the radio yesterday....I didn't know that David had died and am so sorry...... it is a beautiful song... God Bless
Sunday, August 21st 2011
Entry 377
Name: Miguel  |  Country: France  |  guelmitx@hotmail.com
I remember this song (Days Of Pearly Spencer) since I was a kid in the 6os and still listening it, I have it on my mp3, and I still love it. You were a great man, musician etc..Peace man.
Wednesday, July 13th 2011
Entry 376
Name: Terri Calders  |  Country: Eire  |  kilnavara@eircom.net
David was a genius and an inspiration to so many especially his children, whom are just as inspirational and great at what they do as he was. Keep up the good work guys.
Friday, June 24th 2011
Entry 375
Name: Sally Scally  |  Country: Ireland  |  sallykavourmas@hotmail.com
I wish I had had the opportunity to meet you!!! May you rest in peace .............and you have a wonderful legacy, not only through your music.... but with a really great young man called Shannon ..........who has wicked taste in music!!! You raised him to be a gentleman and I am proud to know him!!!! Wish I had the chance to meet you. R.I.P.
Sunday, June 5th 2011
Entry 374
Name: Kris White  |  Country: Scotland  |  kriswhiteuk@yahoo.com
I was listening to Days of Pearly Spencer on the radio earlier today.Such a great song and still as meaningful and relevant all these years later. Hope you're still singing away in heaven David.
Friday, May 27th 2011
Entry 373
Name: Heiko  |  Country: England  |  heikoworld@gmail.com
I am old enough to have owned David McWilliams first album and I treasured it for years, but time has some very bad habits and the album dissapeared but not the memories. I first heard David on pirate radio which made me buy it, not just for pearly Spencer but for all the tracks. I am retired now after working all my life as a Television Camerman but spend a lot of time as a Radio Presenter on our Community Radio www.10radio.org in my retirement. I hope David is at peace and my peaceful blessings to everyone. Heiko
Friday, May 6th 2011
Entry 372
Name: colette  |  Country: paris  |  colette_valdrez@hotmail.com
j'aimais beaucoup david mc williams et je l'ai redécouvert sur ce "book"toutes les photos et les clips sont magnifiques.il y en a beaucoup que je ne connaissais pas. je vous en remercie(je l'ai mis dans mes favoris pour le trouver rapidement) très bel ode a un chanteur disparu trop tôt.
Tuesday, May 3rd 2011
Entry 371
Name: Alan Carmichael  |  Country: Australia  |  alan.car@bigpond.net.au
What a well crafted song was "The Days Of Pearly Spencer". It had the makings of a hit written all over it. The song received substantial air play on the "Greater 3UZ" by Stan Rolfe arguably Australia's best DJ in Melbourne from 1964-1964-1970, what a voice and the man who influenced my radio career. I get the opportunity to play "Days" on my radio programme "The Time Tunnel Of Pop" this Saturday morning on 100.5 WOWFM (South Australia) 30.4.11 about 8.15 am CST time. You can stream to hear it on stream.wowfm.org which is best if you are overseas.
Monday, April 25th 2011
Entry 370
Name: Kevin Larkin  |  Country: Australia  |  kevinlarkin54@yahoo.com.au
I have known"Days of Perly spencer" as a song for many, many years. I did not know of David's other "treasures"! Now I do. It is now 2011 and I am just discovering Davids music other than "Perly" That is the legacy that David leaves his old and new fans. Rest in peace David.
Monday, April 25th 2011
Entry 369
Name: Stephane
Days of Pearly Spencer is a magical and ominous song full of mystery, artfully enforced by the tension in the music, the quality of the sound, the contrast between the emotional vibration of David Mc Williams' voice and the strangeness of the techno effects in the refrain. The haunting and evocative powers of the words are so strong that they reached me when I was a young teenager and a beginner in english, as well as millions of other listeners who at that time like me would not have had the opportunity to read and understand the full text. Still, the enigmatic rhymes I could catch at the time, produced a sense of desolation and doom that made this unique song somehow unforgettable. Finally reading the full text years later thanks to the Internet just confirmed that this was not just a great song but a great poem by a great artist that will always shine among the best in Irish and English poetry.
Friday, April 15th 2011
Entry 368
Name: J. McCauley  |  Country: USA  |  pix777@gmail.com
I have been a big fan of David since (the days of early spencer).I am from Ireland and was in the music business.
Monday, April 4th 2011
Entry 367
Name: J. McCauley  |  Country: USA  |  pix777@gmail.com
I have been a big fan of David since (the days of early spencer).I am from Ireland and was in the music business.
Monday, April 4th 2011
Entry 366
Name: Haydn Jones  |  Country: Wales  |  haydn@rocketmail.com
The Days of Pearly Spencer has to be one of the best songs of its time. David deserved much more success than what he got!
Sunday, April 3rd 2011
Entry 365
Name: Ray Sutton  |  Country: UK  |  ray.sutton@live.co.uk
David was a wonderful singer song writer, sadly missed.
Wednesday, March 30th 2011
Entry 364
Name: Rosalind Quantz  |  Country: USA  |  rosalindquantz@gmail.com
I was fortunate to live next door to Gill Sowter McWilliams. Of course she herself was a great country and ballad singer, and graced many pubs with her songs. Her daughter Mandy was about 5 years old then she had Julie, both lovely girls. When Gill went down to do a recording of their songs with her group it was there she met David. After a whirlwind courtship she married David and moved to be with him in London. I wish I knew how to get in contact with her, as she was not only a neighbor but a a very dear friend.
Wednesday, March 9th 2011
Entry 363
Name: Gerry Gowan  |  Country: Australia  |  gerry.gowan@gmail.com
I never knew or met the man personally and have only recently learnt of his death sadly. So I just wanted to pass on my condolences to his family & friends. I still have a vinyl 45rpm record with Days of Pearly Spencer on one side and Harlem Lady on the other. Great music that I really loved and still love both these tracks. Thank you for your gift David: your music lives on. Regards Gerry
Tuesday, February 15th 2011
Entry 362
Name: Luis Felipe Santamaria Lopez  |  Country: Spain  |  santamarialuisfelipe@gmail.com
When I've heard "Days of Perly Spencer" for the first time I was 20, but when I hear this unusual song always I feel the same, is special. Thanks Dave
Saturday, February 12th 2011
Entry 361
Name: Samuel Navarro  |  Country: Canada  |  snavarroortega@gmail.com
Tonight, I have had the pleasure of listening to David's interpretation of his famous "Days of Pearly Spencer". I also had a chance to browse this site and learn more about him. I was eight when his hit reached Chile my native country. I clearly recall to have enjoyed his song right from the beginning. It was only tonight that I learned the name of it and could find it on the web. I must say that I feel a bit nostalgic after watching several video clips of his performance. A man with the simplicity of a great artist.
Sunday, January 23rd 2011
Entry 360
Name: Leo  |  Country: Germany/UK
Just by a very lucky coincidence I came in touch with the great music of this missed artist. I'm so glad that I researched who that lovely tune in the radio sang... Otherwise I would have missed these marvellous songs. Thanks to my fate for the lucky dip and of course thanks so much to David McWilliams. Rest in Peace!
Monday, January 10th 2011
Entry 359
Name: Chris Noble  |  Country: UK  |  chris@noble724.freeserve.co.uk
Thank-you for many wonderful musical memories from the late 60s especially the "Days" album. You were vastly underrated in your lifetime. Hope you've found music wherever you are.
Sunday, January 9th 2011
Entry 358
Name: T keen  |  Country: England  |  terry_w_keen@hotmail.com
bought his first two albums at the age of fifeteen,o how i wish i had them now in my 59th year,his music sounds as good today as it always did,rip David god bless.
Saturday, December 11th 2010
Entry 357
Name: Mark  |  Country: UK  |  markpierrepont295@hotmail.com
Hi , i'm desperately seeking a copy of bucket full of dreams as I own every other album. Would anybody be willing to reel me a copy of the album off. I would be more than willing to repeat the favour on something of interest. If so please email me at markpierrepont295@hotmail.com. Many thanks , Mark
Saturday, November 27th 2010
Entry 356
Name: Geoff  |  Country: UK  |  lgv@blueyonder.co.uk
One of the greatest truley missed
Saturday, November 27th 2010
Entry 355
Name: sascha  |  Country: germany  |  potten@gmx.de
respect!!
Wednesday, November 24th 2010
Entry 354
Name: Paul O' Halloran  |  Country: Ireland  |  ohalloranpaul@yahoo.ie
Hello, I am happy to have found this sight. I look forward to spending some time getting to know more about David. I was surprised to see it is eight years since his death. I wish it wasn't true. I discovered his music through an older brother of mine who I was visiting in Denmark about 27 years ago. I taped some of his songs from my brothers LP's. I would like to get my hands on the latest cd. Regards Paul
Friday, October 22nd 2010
Entry 353
Name: Peter  |  Country: Holland  |  petrushiel@hotmail.com
Love the music very much
Sunday, October 10th 2010
Entry 352
Name: Robert Kirk  |  Country: Yorkshire  |  rkirkrefrigeration@msn.com
Only The Good Die Young
Sunday, September 26th 2010
Entry 351
Name: Ray Beadling  |  Country: USA ( exiled Geordie )  |  ray_beadling@yahoo.com
Oh How sad,... I have JUST heard of his death NOW.... after trying to get a copy of Pearly Spencer.. Oh dear.... how very very sad RB
Sunday, September 12th 2010
Entry 350
Name: ROSELIND ROBINSON  |  Country: NORTH OF IRELAND  |  ROSELAND.ROBINSON@02.CO.UK
I KNOW YOU ARE STILL WITH US DAVID EVERY WORD EVERY SONG .A GERAT FRIEND TO MY HUSBAND BRIAN ROBINSON LOVE TO ALL YOUR CHILDREN.A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO GILL FOR BEING MY FRIEND
Sunday, September 12th 2010
Entry 349
Name: peter bowering  |  Country: australia  |  laupet2@bigpond.com
A great singer/songwriter.
Tuesday, August 31st 2010
Entry 348
Name: vera kleine  |  Country: the Netherlands  |  v.m.kleine@xs4all.nl
I am touched by the beautiful song: The Days of Pearly Spencer, what a masterpiece of music!! Vera Kleine
Thursday, August 26th 2010
Entry 347
Name: Hannah Jones  |  Country: England  |  hannahjones1950@hotmail.com
Wonderful memories of the 60's Shame my ex took all the records when we split
Saturday, August 21st 2010
Entry 346
Name: norman steele  |  Country: newcastle upon tyne  |  normansteele2010@live.com.uk
I come from Ballymena and i knew Davie in our early teens and played football against him in the Peoples Park. He went on to have a few games in goal for Ballymena reserves.I went into the forces in the early Sixties.When Pearly Spencer came out in 67 every one in the town knew who it was about. A very talented young man who didnt get the recognition he deserved.I just found this site today and it came as a shock.I hope it was painless and peaceful.
Monday, August 16th 2010
Entry 345
Name: John Bromell  |  Country: Australia  |  theunderdog@bigpond.com
I was fortunate enough to know David. We were signed to the same manager Phillip Solomom . I was in an australian group "The Gibsons" and we often met with Daved in the pub near the office to discuss our progress. History now as David went on to stardom with "The Days of Pearly Spencer" and we lost touch . God bless him regards John bromell
Wednesday, July 21st 2010
Entry 344
Name: Mike Rigby  |  Country: England  |  mike@katantix.com
Memories from my youth: bought the Days of Pearly and the album forty years back. Still got it: it's still great stuff.
Monday, June 14th 2010
Entry 343
Name: Paul Kruse  |  Country: Germany  |  3990christian@web.de
Thank you, David, for my favourite tracks "Days of pearly spencer" and "The Stranger" and all helpers for this very interesting site
Thursday, June 10th 2010
Entry 342
Name: Bob Brown  |  Country: UK
A real talent that is so sadly missed.
Saturday, May 29th 2010
Entry 341
Name: will doig  |  Country: scotland  |  doigwilliam@aol.com
i never forgot his singing of THE DAYS OF PEARLY SPENCER.wish we had met.
Thursday, January 10th 2002
Entry 340
Name: Chris Maurer  |  Country: Germany
Dear David McWilliams in the sky..... Thank you for your song - Days Of Pearly Spencer. It´s great, amazing. allways again i´m happy !!!!
Monday, May 3rd 2010
Entry 339
Name: John Howell  |  Country: Ireland  |  john_howell2000@hotmail.com
Like some already here I first heard of David from his Major Minor records played on Radios London and Caroline, I liked his lyrics and voice but was never a fan of the accompaniment. I recall a session on the John Peel radio programme which David sang accompanied only by guitar and "The Stranger" was outstanding. I have asked many times that the BBC make this session available - but sadly they have never replied. Nano, if you do read this, I'm the John who sent the records. John
Tuesday, April 27th 2010
Entry 338
Name: paul johnson  |  Country: england  |  grandadgrumpy.com;
great performer his songs will live forever .god bless you david,
Saturday, April 24th 2010
Entry 337
Name: John Simpson  |  Country: Dublin  |  johnbillysimpson'@gmail
I lived near David during my school years and as a teenager i always felted he was someone special someone very gifted i remember buying his first record wgich i still listen to along with some of his other records all of his records should now be put on C D He was just a fabulous Guy
Thursday, April 22nd 2010
Entry 336
Name: Andrei Frolkin  |  Country: Ukraine  |  afretro@yandex.ru
As a teenager living under the USSR communist regime, I used to listen to English speaking radio stations day in and day out (broadcasts in English, contrary to those in Russian or in Ukrainian, were normally not jammed by the Soviet authorities), in particular to music programs. One of such English speaking stations was, surprisingly, Radio Kuwait. Back in 1973 and in later years, it often played The Stranger by David McWilliams. That song was among my most favorite ones; yet I had no information on the singer, for his songs, even Days of Pearly Spencer, were hardly ever played on the BBC or elsewhere. It was only last year that, in a fit of nostalgia, I started looking for information on David McWilliams and eventually found this site. Now I can see that David was a remarkable performer indeed and he surely deserved much more than he actually got. Blessed be his memory! Andrei Frolkin Kiev, Ukraine
Monday, April 5th 2010
Entry 335
Name: Jill Wells  |  Country: England  |  jill.wells50@yahoo.co.uk
I could only ever afford a very small record collection, but one of my LPs was David McWilliams, which I played till it couldn't be played any more. How sad that he should die at such a young age and dont understand why he did not achieve the recognition he so well deserved.
Saturday, April 3rd 2010
Entry 334
Name: Jaime Romero  |  Country: Chile  |  jromero@mainsoft.cl
When a was young, seven or eight years old ( 67 or 68), I was traveling by train in my country (chile), in the back seat I see a young man and he was singing to many song in the trip, but in my memory I can remenber very clear when the singer song "days of pearly spencer" using an acoustic guitar, great song, great songwriter . It was my first contact with the rock music until Today. atte: Jaime Romero figueroa. Santiago Chile
Sunday, March 21st 2010
Entry 333
Name: Brian O'Neill  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  oneillbi@freenetname.co.uk
David was just one of the best that ever this island Ireland ever produced. An absolutely brilliant wordsmith and his songs are just so poetic and beautiful. Everyone should have oneof his CD's in their collection. I am forever in debt to my older sister Pauline for introduceing his music to me back in the mid-seventies.
Sunday, March 14th 2010
Entry 332
Name: Sandro Sposimo  |  Country: Italy  |  sandro@studentcells.com
It's nice to see my message posted 6 years ago! Every time I listen to "Poverty street" my eyes start crying, remembering when I was young and I just met in 1968 the girl that became my wife. This song has always been the soundtrack of the love I still have for that girl. Thanks Dave, thanks a lot.
Monday, March 1st 2010
Entry 331
Name: reginald rostock  |  Country: england  |  reginald,rostock@ntlworld.com
First heard on Major Minor records ,david is the most unforgettable artist ,hehad feeling and vision ,thank you David for your music ,you will never be forgotten .Reg
Friday, January 29th 2010
Entry 330
Name: RICK SEARCH  |  Country: UK  |  richardsearch@yahoo.com
GOT THREE D/Mc CDs OF AMAZON...MORE TO COME...HAPPYYYYYY.
Wednesday, January 27th 2010
Entry 329
Name: Derick  |  Country: Ireland  |  derick.kevin@laposte.net
What lyrically beautiful and melodic music with a tinge of melancholy that depicts the reality of both sides of the divide, covered over by the greed of the suits at the top and misunderstood by the ordinary people among us. God, the stupidity of it all! If only we could all work together and just live as respectfully towards each other without putting more crosses on our backs. Listening to "The Days of Pearly Spencer", "Poverty Street", "Three O'Clock Flamingo Street", I soemtimes ask myself why we, on both sides of the artificial border and on both sides of this artificial divide, never chose somebody like David McWilliams, Paul Brady to be our Mandelas and to remove the evil filth and greed and that rules both states and impoverishes us from the beauty of the world by encouraging so much hate, distrust and ignorance. As long as people listen to Dave's songs, there is still hope, even against "the house that can't be beat."
Sunday, January 24th 2010
Entry 328
Name: Alan Hamer  |  Country: United Kingdom  |  hameralan60@yahoo.co.uk
I've got a lot of David's LP's, but they haven't been played for years as it took a court order to get them back from my ex-wife. I quite recently aquirred another LP of his - Don't do it for love-.On the back in gold lettering is the following - property of EMIR Demonstration only Not for sale. Can anyone tell me why this is there. Unfortunately the front of the cover has been damaged
Wednesday, January 6th 2010
Entry 327
Name: Mr M  |  Country: England  |  millsi@ymail.com
heard the 'lights of cyrian' for the 1st time 2 days ago. wow what a tune!!
Thursday, November 19th 2009
Entry 326
Name: maurice bourget  |  Country: canada  |  boumau50@hotmail.com
Would like to know some guitar chords for the song "The Gypsy". -Thank you.
Tuesday, November 17th 2009
Entry 325
Name: Ian Killip  |  Country: Isle of Man  |  ik@manx.net
A really original artiste - a stalwart on Radio Caroline - the Ballymena Cowboy. Thanks for the music David, may it live forever.
Monday, November 16th 2009
Entry 324
Name: Mary Klepsch  |  Country: Germany  |  maryklepsch@t-online.de
For me he was definitely up there beside Bob Dylan and Van Morrison. Mary C. Klepsch- Belfast born and living in Germany.
Sunday, November 15th 2009
Entry 323
Name: larry fogarty  |  Country: .dublin ireland  |  larryfogarty@gmail.com
i phoned david at his home about 1993 and told him all his recordings i had of him broke when i was moveing home and iasked him could he tape all his recordings for me ..he said no problem...i week later i recieved them....we also spoke his apperance at the albert hall in 1967 which i was at .i told him and still hold the view that pearly was the best irish pop song ever ..may u rest in peace david...
Wednesday, November 11th 2009
Entry 322
Name: Terry Bell  |  Country: England  |  terry.bell3@btinternet.com
I can remember hearing David on Radio Caroline in the sixties. I was spellbound by his music. I immediately went out and bought the album and carried it with me to all the parties I went to that christmas. His music is just as refreshing now as it was all those years ago. If there is one person who should have been a big star it was David. When I hear some of the dross that masquerades as music nowadays and then listen to David's music it makes me want to weep. I'm afraid we'll never see the like again.
Friday, November 6th 2009
Entry 321
Name: Robin Dee  |  Country: UK  |  gristudio@hotmail.com
This week our 'Full Vinyl' programme features the entire vinyl Major Minor album 'The Days of David McWilliams' on our 2 stations Golden Radio International and Big Bertha Radio. Tune in at - http://listen.to/goldenradio or http://listen.to/bigbertha Also on the Wi-Fi Internet Radio Network. Great to hear this classic album, and we will always play his music. Posted 23/10/09.
Friday, October 23rd 2009
Entry 320
Name: Roger  |  Country: Switzerland  |  nachteule@windowslive.com
Days of Pearly Spencer, one of the Greatest Songs EVER !!!!!
Sunday, October 18th 2009
Entry 319
Name: pearly  |  Country: ni
miss you everyday.
Tuesday, October 13th 2009
Entry 318
Name: Charles  |  Country: South Africa  |  datamancc@mweb.co.za
I got to be very fond of him.
Friday, October 9th 2009
Entry 317
Name: Alfred Janta  |  Country: Germany  |  Alfred.Janta@t-online.de
A deep bow to this man who wrote that beautiful song "the days of pearly spencer". He is not forgotten.
Saturday, October 3rd 2009
Entry 316
Name: Martyn  |  Country: England  |  fireclown@smokersforums.org
David may not have made the charts in the UK but he was certainly a big favourite with "squaddies" over in Germany. I certainly spent a lot of money feeding jukeboxes over there! "Pearly Spencer" is, and has been for some time, the ringtone on my cell phone. A fantastic song which in some ways reflected the nomadic lifestyle I lived in the early 70s. David, thank you for the music and for the inspiration. RIP
Saturday, September 26th 2009
Entry 315
Name: Dervla Tornquist  |  Country: Sweden  |  dervlat&gmail.com
Hi, what a lovely tribute to Davy, he's famous in our house (the O'Connors) for coining the phrase "flacon bammage" after a late night over the mountain a few came round to ours for coffee and bacon sandwiches and himself says "yeah, I'd like a flacon bammage too!"
Monday, August 24th 2009
Entry 314
Name: Philippe  |  Country: France  |  phigiroud@yahoo.fr
Hello, I would like to understand the meaning of the song "The days of Pearly Spencer" sonce the lyrics seem mysterious to me. Thanks in advance.
Monday, August 3rd 2009
Entry 313
Name: Chris Ingram  |  Country: UK  |  kris.ingram@berlin.de
Time and time again throughout my life I have come back to the songs of David McWillaims. As a teenager in '67 hearing 'Theres No Lock Upon My Door', 'Harlem Lady', 'God and Country', to name but few and not to menion '...Pearly Spencer',I realised I was not the only one with such feelings out there! With what was going on in my life at the time and for the next 20 odd years, David's music always seemed to reflect a lot of what I was feeling. His muisc touched the soul and sent shivers throughout the body - tracks such as The Hangman and Redundancy Blues are for me, still relevant today like much of his music.He never got the public recognition he deserved. But perhaps he deserved and got better than that? The fact is that David's music got into your heart and will always remain there amongst those of us lucky enough to be his contemporaries, who grew up with his music; and who will never be the same as the day before we first heard his poetry, and that unique voice. He could see things others never sung about. There isnt one person who knows me who doesnt also know of the genious that was David McWilliams, and my love for his music. RIP David, you are sadly missed!
Friday, July 17th 2009
Entry 312
Name: Marcela Ortiz Buijüy  |  Country: Chile  |  mobuijuy@gmail.com
Fue mi favorito a comienzos de los años 70... Es fantástico encontrarlo otra vez! Gracias
Wednesday, July 1st 2009
Entry 311
Name: Philippe HESSEL  |  Country: France  |  philippe.hessel1@orange.fr
these songs are in my memory like - in french - la madeleine de Proust -
Wednesday, June 10th 2009
Entry 310
Name: Flavio  |  Country: Brazil  |  fbasilio@uol.com.br
Musics that it produced, simply fantastic!!! The best!!!
Saturday, May 9th 2009
Entry 309
Name: Martin Vincent McBride  |  Country: England  |  m.vincent.mcbride@btinternet.com
At a time of Show-bands and Diddle Diddle music along came a troubadour: David McWilliams - Irelands answer to ‘Donavan’ and ‘Bob Dylan’ and we were introduced to: ‘The Days of Pearley Spencer’ I remember listening to it being played on Radio Caroline when I should have been studying for my exams back in 1967/68. It sounds just as good to me now, as it did then – spine tingling! The reason this song wasn't a UK hit was a tragedy! Perhaps the lyrics were taken as a metaphor for the disaffected of Northern Ireland remember that the only thing to come out of Belfast at that time was One Man - One Vote! - Whatever the politics, Your legacy lives on.
Thursday, May 7th 2009
Entry 308
Name: noel casey  |  Country: ireland  |  noelcasey47@hotmail.com
loved david's music [still do] ..have got most of it again on cd..i worked in a holiday camp in SKERRIES [NTH CO DUBLIN] in the mid 60's and i could get RADIO CAROLINE ,that's where i first came across DAVID...great songs..may he r i p ....
Wednesday, April 29th 2009
Entry 307
Name: Victor Jorge  |  Country: Portugal  |  victorjorge@hotmail.com
For those you have listened "The Beggar and the Priest", what is your favourite song?
Tuesday, March 31st 2009
Entry 306
Name: Victor Jorge  |  Country: Portugal  |  victorjorge@hotmail.com
For those you have listened "The Beggar and the Priest", what is your opinion about?
Tuesday, March 31st 2009
Entry 305
Name: Victor Jorge  |  Country: Portugal  |  victorjorge@hotmail.com
Most of us who like David Mc Williams, we write about "Days of Pearly Spencer" but the other songs in this album and every song in the "The Beggar and the Priest" album are equally nice. Pick up these records and listen, then you'll agree with me. Victor Jorge, from Lisbon
Friday, March 20th 2009
Entry 304
Name: Victor Jorge  |  Country: Portugal  |  victorjorge@hotmail.com
David Mcwilliams was always one of my favourite singers, since I heard "Days of Pearly Spencer". I have two LP's from him, which I keep as a treasure. It's a pity that he left us so soon. May be those who, like me, enjoy his records, we are tunned on the same airwawes. God be on his side. Victor Jorge
Thursday, March 19th 2009
Entry 303
Name: Graham  |  Country: England  |  graham.p.carlson@talk21.com
I bought Days of Pearly Spencer on a 45 when it came out years ago and loved it although I actually preferred the B side Harlem Lady. I recently got a copy of " The Days Of David McWilliams " and wish I'd bought his albums years ago as I never realised what a great artist and songwriter he was. It's a superb album of brilliantly crafted songs. What a sad loss to the world he was.
Wednesday, March 11th 2009
Entry 302
Name: Jenny Watts  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  jennifer_watts@btinternet.com
I KNEW DAVID WELL BACK IN 1976 WHEN HE JOINED TALENTS WITH MY THEN BOYFRIEND TED O'NEILL, AND ED WELCH/GRAHAM DEE, TO MAKE AN ALBUM "DAVID MCWILLIAMS". SOME LOVELY SONGS, ESPECIALLY LAY IT ON THE LINE, IF YOU LOVED ME YESTERDAY, LOVE WALKED IN, THE KEY TO HEAVEN. TED AND DAVID USED TO BURN THE MIDNIGHT OIL WRITING AND PLAYING IN THE MUSIC ROOM OF OUR HOUSE. I AM VERY PROUD THAT I DREW THE PORTRAIT OF DAVID THAT WAS USED FOR THE INSIDE SLEEVE. WE ALL WENT OUR SEPARATE WAYS NOT LONG AFTER THE ALBUM WAS MADE BUT I ALWAYS LOVED HIS MUSIC AND BEAUTIFUL VOICE. HE WAS A QUIET SHY MAN AND I AM SO GLAD TO HAVE COME ACROSS THIS SITE DEDICATED TO HIM AS HE DESERVES THE RECOGNITION. I HAVE ONLY HAD A COMPUTER SINCE CHRISTMAS AND TODAY I FOUND THIS WEBSITE AND WAS THRILLED TO READ THE GUESTBOOK. I ALSO MET GIL AND THE KIDS WHEN TED AND I VISITED DAVID'S HOUSE. GOD BLESS DAVID
Friday, March 6th 2009
Entry 301
Name: Barney Rooney  |  Country: England  |  barney34@btinternet.com
A great sound when I was young and a loss for sure. Barney
Saturday, February 21st 2009
Entry 300
Name: Livia Kolen  |  Country: Nederland  |  livia_kolen@hotmail.com
Heyy sjef kolen, ik ken je heel goed want je ben mijn papa. ik vind dat je een hele mooie site heb gemaakt. ik ben trots op je!!!!!! Kusjes van Livia
Thursday, February 19th 2009
Entry 299
Name: Giorgos Avgeris  |  Country: Greece  |  avgeris@tellas.gr
The days of Pearly Spencer simply marked my childhood. It's one of the most ecstatic memories that I can recall. This song is just Dionysian. I'll be obliged to David McWilliams for ever for having written it. Thank you deeply Giorgos
Wednesday, January 21st 2009
Entry 298
Name: HARRY MILLAR  |  Country: 40 DEVENAGH WAY  |  H.MILLAR@SKY.COM
THE 'BEAT MAN' WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AND LISTENED TO BY THE RECTORY RANGERS TEAM.
Tuesday, January 20th 2009
Entry 297
Name: larry fogarty  |  Country: Dublin Ireland  |  larryfogarty@gmail.com
David was in my opinion the best singer/songwriter to come out of Ireland and he was up there with the best internationally. 'The Days of Pearly Spencer' is the best Irish single ever, and when you consider how fresh it sounds today, nearly 42 years since it was released. I saw David in 67 at the albert hall supporting The Dubliners ..and had a couple of good telephone conversations with him in the 90's. He also very kindly taped some of his work for me which I had lost over the years. A lovely, polite man. May he rest in peace. Larry Fogarty P.S: God and My Country is one of the best anti war songs ever.
Tuesday, January 13th 2009
Entry 296
Name: Michael Rowan  |  Country: Colombia  |  johnmichaelrowan@gmail.com
Pearly Spencer - Poignant and enduring
Sunday, January 4th 2009
Entry 295
Name: Den Gaynor  |  Country: Turkey  |  dengaynor@hotmail.com
Very sad to find out about David's death only today. Pearly Spenser remains a huge warm memory for me.
Wednesday, December 24th 2008
Entry 294
Name: C Dufaur  |  Country: UK  |  atotush@yahoo
'Days of Pearley Spencer' is one of my favourites
Monday, December 8th 2008
Entry 293
Name: John Chylinski  |  Country: Australia  |  ratso33@hotmail.com
Great site! Well done. Has anyone come across a song called "alone" - the chorus ends it's hard to be alone. I can't place it, but it's definitely one of David's
Sunday, November 30th 2008
Entry 292
Name: Chris Spriet  |  Country: Belgium  |  chris_spriet@hotmail.com
This to inform all of you fans of David's that I posted this reminiscence of his wistful music on the Amazon site. Here I go Another bard, and a good memory, too ... My first reminiscences of McW date back to those (pearly# radio days of '67 and the portable Siera radio on the kitchen table in our countryside home. In Flanders, medium wave broadcast quality was just barely doable in early evening time, and I have distinct memories of the plugging of 'this new singer' on Caroline's Major-Minor label; some of his music I must still have lying around gathering dust on an Ampex tape. Looking and listening back, the only thing I miss on David's Music is the doubtful quality of the radio waves blurring in and out on that radio #to make the memory complete#; the rest is all there: the wistful romance, those earliest butterfly wings of love, the sincerity also, of simple, thoughtful lyrics that speak for themselves. 'There ain't no lock upon my door," is what I hear the singer saying: this is true, of good memories and ground-breaking sixties music to begin with. Listening to this pick of David McWilliams's back catalogue, one may wonder why the career of such an innovator was so short-lived. One of the LP blurbs states that the (then) 22-year-old 'has as yet to find the girl who can hold his wandering attention'. For David we hope that some nice folk-and-hippie girl caught the bard's invitations to the Josephine's, Marlena's or Harlem Lady Helens along the way... Great stuff this, ranking with the likes of Clifford T. Ward, Peter Sarstedt, Richard Harris, Nick Drake and Gordon Lightfoot. And so sad to find so many of them Clifford, Nick and David departed by now. Anyway, there is still the gift of their music for us to cherish. Thank you so much david, and bless, kind soul, wherever... Share your thoughts with other customers: › See all 2 customer reviews...
Wednesday, November 26th 2008
Entry 291
Name: ken  |  Country: england  |  kenjones57@hotmail.com
days of pearly spencer was a song that has always haunted me thank you for this website takes me back to when i was a teenager the song is so full of personal meaning to me
Sunday, November 16th 2008
Entry 290
Name: BRIAN JAMES  |  Country: ENGLAND  |  brianukfox@msn.com
David was without doubt one of the finest singer songwriters. I heard Pearly Spencer in 67 and it affected me greatly, i don't think David ever made a bad record and i play Days at Dawn at least once a week. He should have been treated better by the music industry. i will never forget him, we will never see his like again.
Monday, October 27th 2008
Entry 289
Name: Hassan Sherif  |  Country: Egypt  |  drhassansherif@gmail.com
Thanks for this beautiful site. It took me back to the 60's and I had very mixed feelings, mostly ....very nice. I remembered myself as a kid waiting for the At Your Request program on a friday morning and waiting passionately for David's The Stranger. I've been trying to find the words of The Stranger and to download it eversince I had an internet account. I never found any link on the serach engines I've used (google & msn). However, trying out Ask; I came through your site. I couldnt find a complete version of the stranger anywhere; just a poor video on youtube. Thanks for your effort
Sunday, October 19th 2008
Entry 288
Name: jyothi  |  Country: india  |  juturu1234@rediffmail.com
Hi your website is good. Earn USD 4000 Per month from home. FREE Registration !!!!!! Join Today ...FREE !! http://www.ezinfocenter.com/7385520/FREE
Friday, October 10th 2008
Entry 287
Name: David Gowers  |  Country: UK  |  davidgowers@blueyonder.co.uk
David was an exceptional wordsmith and 'The Days of Pearly Spencer' will always remain a timeless classic. I never knew him personally, but reading the comments from his family, it is clear he was much loved by all that knew him. He clearly left this earth too soon and the old saying is true; 'Only the good die young'. God Bless you David and best wishes to his family.
Saturday, October 4th 2008
Entry 286
Name: roy  |  Country: qatar  |  byneroad19@yahoo.co.uk
knew davy from 60s Ballymena, super guy,excellent footballer and wonderful musician.Was good ambassador for our town. R.I.P.
Sunday, September 28th 2008
Entry 285
Name: roy taylor  |  Country: england  |  taylor573@btinternet.com
realy good song writer and singer,truly underated guy. made my youth a good time,with my first real love jenny. thanks for it all.
Wednesday, September 3rd 2008
Entry 284
Name: paul chaplinengland  |  Country: england  |  charliechaplin@blueyonder.co.uk
What a singer used to do sidecar racing early 70s had one of the first mobile steros always played his music in the pits everybody loved it so sad hes gone best wishes to all his family still got the LPs he wont be forgot xxx
Wednesday, August 20th 2008
Entry 283
Name: Chris Hopkins  |  Country: UK  |  chrishopkins678@btinternet.com
David was what the 60s were about every time I here Pearly Spencer it takes me back when I was a teenager enjoyiny carefree days Great times thanks to a great singer/ songwriter
Tuesday, August 19th 2008
Entry 282
Name: Joe Quinn  |  Country: Scotland  |  quinn2803@btinternet.com
A friend many years ago in the late 60s gave me a copy of the Days of Pearly Spencer album - this started my long association with David's music which I still play to this day. I remember that in late 1974 a group of us had booked tickets for a live concert in the Civic Hall in Digbeth, Birmingham. Unfortunately that awful conflict was going on in northern Ireland and had spilled over into mainland Britain when, a few weeks before the Digbeth gig, the two pubs were blown up in Birmingham. The concert went ahead nevertheless even though only about 30-40 people turned up but the memory of the night is still fresh in my head. A great and friendly evening with a more personal touch because of the circumstances.
Thursday, July 24th 2008
Entry 281
Name: Schömer  |  Country: Germany  |  promotion@dragonland-radio.de
Hello We are a Radiosender in Berlin, can we have a Promo cd from David McWilliams. Thank you very with friendly greeting Eugen Schömer Promotion Dragonland-Radio
Tuesday, June 24th 2008
Entry 280
Name: TPA  |  Country: france  |  t@pa.eu.org
GENSER- ARPICK -SIK -MOON ZERO -AKRO - AS one -ATOMYK
Tuesday, June 24th 2008
Entry 279
Name: sandra  |  Country: uk  |  sandra.dobell@virgin.net
days of pearly spencer was a classic, you just dont get songs like this today, to a great singer/songwriter, respect. sandra.
Friday, June 6th 2008
Entry 278
Name: john  |  Country: england
amazing
Thursday, May 22nd 2008
Entry 277
Name: Ramon Cabrera  |  Country: Spain  |  rcabrera_@eresmas.com
I first listened to David in 1968 (I still have a vinyl record from that year) with two great and not well known songs: "Mr. Satisfied" and "This side of heaven" (where he probably is). Thanks to David for his music and rest in peace forever.
Saturday, April 26th 2008
Entry 276
Name: martin gormley  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  martin-gormley@sky.com
My wife Mary and i went to the David McWilliams tribute concert tonight in the Braid centre, Ballymena. It was a fantastic night of song and music by Henry McCullough and Brian Houston. I am now playing the tribute album which was released at the concert and it is a masterpiece of music and song..I am delighted for Colin Agnew, his dream has finally come true.I thank him for including my late brother Dominic's name who was his dear friend on the sleeve of this album.
Saturday, March 22nd 2008
Entry 275
Name: martin gormley  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  martin-gormley@sky.com
I am looking forward so much to the tribute concert tonight and the release of his tribute album.
Friday, March 21st 2008
Entry 274
Name: Anne  |  Country: Australia
I have always loved the Days of Pearl Spencer but never knew anything about the singer, only his name was David Mcwilliams, on recently looking on the internet for old music I have not heard in ages I found the video clip on utube I then bought an album of his off ebay and for the past few weeks have really enjoyed discovering David McWilliams. What a great singer songwriter he was, and I glad after all these years I have finally discovered him.
Monday, February 25th 2008
Entry 273
Name: tim murray  |  Country: england  |  timemurray@talktalk.net
Only noticed David when I bought a remaindered LP of his from FADS in 1969. I now have all his LPs and most CDs. Apart from Radio Caroline, the only DJ that I can remember who sung his praises was Ed Stewart(Stewpot). Not sure why he did not get the plays that the records deserved. His lyrics are some of the best on vynil, especially God and Country and Redundancy Blues. Pity that he never got the acclaim that he deserved.
Saturday, February 23rd 2008
Entry 272
Name: Shiloh Noone  |  Country: South Africa  |  shiloh@telkomsa.net
David has that ambling voice that reaches into the esoteric mist of Eire and holds refrain without effort. He is the indelible stamp of Celtic heritage that rose to the climate of the sixtes yet was able to embrace the past in his own songsmith gifts, without covering trad. He is truly the last of the troubadours, in same guild as Nick Drake, but sadly rests with the likes of unknown artistic integrity like Shawn Phillips , Colin Scot and Nick Garrie.
Saturday, February 23rd 2008
Entry 271
Name: Sally Mathieson  |  Country: england  |  seam50@yahoo.co.uk
first LP I bought and wore it out. Sad to lose you.
Saturday, February 23rd 2008
Entry 270
Name: Jessica and Monique Molsich  |  Country: Germany  |  ramona-molsich@t-online.de
He was one of the best. It was a mistake that he died so soon. I can remember the song " The days of Pearly Spenzer",and it gives me so much memories from my youth, you cant imagine!!!! lovely regards Jessica and Monique Molsich
Saturday, February 23rd 2008
Entry 269
Name: Richard Mathieson  |  Country: England  |  racm2@tiscali.co.uk
A very sad loss to a wonderful performer.
Friday, February 22nd 2008
Entry 268
Name: ecj  |  Country: USA/lebanon  |  dandelairo@tut.by
I first heard him on radio in the 1968 in lebanon.the daus of pearly spencer was the second song I heard, first one was a song that talk about a man sentenced to be hung.lately I heard another folk album for him that featute songs like I never drink water and by the light of the cyrians...it was also good. I am really saddened by his loss. I believe he did not get the recognition he deserves like Nick Drake( who also become more famous after his death) and his music is now part of the selling cars commercials....
Friday, February 1st 2008
Entry 267
Name: Hector Cane  |  Country: Spain  |  hecan67@yahoo.es
Hi, could you tell us where to find some of his records like Days of Pearly Spencer (lyrics below), Harlem Lady and 3 o'clock Flamingo Street. Many thanks. Hector (Madrid, Spain) ---- Original Version by David McWilliams A tenement, a dirty street Walked and worn by shoeless feet Inside it's long and so complete Watch by shivering sun Old eyes in a small child's face Watching as the shadows race Trough walls and cracks and leave no trace And daylight's brightness shuns The days of Pearly Spencer The race is almost run Nose pressed hard on frosted glass Gazing as the swollen mass On concrete fields where grows no grass Stumbles blindly on Iron trees smother the air But withering they stand and stare Trough eyes that neither know nor care Where the grass is gone The days of Pearly Spencer The race is almost run Pearly where's your milk white skin? What that stubble on your chin? It's buried in the rot gut gin You played and lost not won You played a house that can't be beat Now look your head's bowed in defeat You walked too far along the street Where only rats can run The days of Pearly Spencer The race is almost run A tenement, a dirty street Remember worn and shoeless feet Remember how you stood to beat The way your life has gone So Pearly don't you shed more tears For those best forgotten years Those tenements are memories Of where you've risen from The days of Pearly Spencer The race is almost won ------ Version 2 (Marc Almond, 1992) A tenement, a dirty street Walked and worn by shoeless feet Inside it's long and so complete Watched by a shivering sun Old eyes in a small child's face Watching as the shadows race Through walls and cracks that leave no trace And daylight's brightness shun. Chorus: The days of Pearly Spencer Ahh Ahh Ahh The race is almost run Nose pressed hard on frosted glass Gazing at the swollen mass On conrete fields where grows no grass Stumbles blindly on Iron trees smother the air But withering, they stand and stare Through eyes that neither know nor care Where the grass has gone Chorus: The days of Pearly Spencer Ahh Ahh Ahh The race is almost run Pearly where's your milk white skin What's that stubble on your chin It's buried in the rot gut gin You played and lost not won You played a house that can't be beat Now look your head's bowed in defeat You walked too far along the street Where only rats can run Chorus: The days of Pearly Spencer Ahh Ahh Ahh The race is almost run The days of Pearly Spencer Ahh Ahh Ahh The race is almost run The race is almost run A tenement, a dirty street Remember worn and shoeless feet Remember how you stood to beat The way your life has gone So Pearly don't you shed more tears For those best forgotten years Those tenements are memories Of where you've risen from The days of Pearly Spencer The race is almost won -------
Tuesday, January 29th 2008
Entry 266
Name: GOFFETTE MARIE-CLAUDE  |  Country: FRANCE  |  jl.goffette@orange.fr
Je serai toujours reconnaissante envers David pour m'avoir donné l'envie de me familiariser avec la langue anglaise, grâce aux textes de ses chansons. Son départ fut 1 perte pour le monde musical et irlandais. En ton honneur, j'ai appelé mon fils David (il a 27 ans !) THANKS SO MUCH Bien cordialement, Marie-Claude de Mairy-sur-Marne, France. This part (the translation) has been added by the webmaster! I always will be grateful towards David to have given me the desire for familiarizing me with the English language, thanks to the texts of his songs. His death was a loss for the musical and Irish world. In David's honor, I've called my son David(he's 27 years old!) THANKS SO MUCH Well warm-hearted, Marie-Claude of the Mairy-on-Marne, France.
Friday, December 28th 2007
Entry 265
Name: Alain LEBRETON  |  Country: France  |  lebreton.al@wanadoo.fr
I am 54 years old. Like many, I discovered David McWilliams with "The Days of Pearly Spencer" at the time of its release in France. But I quickly wanted to know something other than this commercial success. I felt that there was more in him that among all these ephemeral singers who emerged at this time. I never loved someone for the sole reason that it was in vogue. "Can I get there by Candlelight", "This side of Heaven", "The stranger", "Follow me" and many others were songs that I listen regularly, even though I do not understand all the words. The voice deep and warm of David McWilliams, his melodies, his music ... Nothing comparable with most other English-speaking singers! Even Bob Dylan, which I appreciate, never captured my interest like him. And thanks to this site, I have (a little) discovered a man I did not know and that seemed pretty nice. For some time, I discovered other songs, many of which seduced me and now I try to find those that I do not know yet (and there are quite a few!). Unfortunately, it is not easy, at least in France, to find editions of David McWilliams! When a full? J'ai 54 ans. Comme beaucoup, j'ai découvert David McWilliams avec "The Days of Pearly Spencer" au moment de sa sortie en France. Mais j'ai rapidement voulu connaître autre chose que ce succès commercial. Je sentais qu'il y avait plus chez lui que parmi tous ces chanteurs éphémères qui émergeaient à cette époque. Je n'ai jamais aimé quelqu'un pour la seule raison qu'il fut à la mode. "Can I get there by Candlelight", "This side of Heaven", "The stranger", "Follow me" et beaucoup d'autres sont restées des chansons que j'écoute régulièrement, même si je ne comprends pas toutes les paroles. La voix profonde et chaude de David McWilliams, ses mélodies, ses musiques... Rien à voir avec la plupart des autres chanteurs anglophones ! Même Bob Dylan, que j'apprécie, n'a jamais su capter mon intérêt comme lui. De plus, grâce à ce site, j'ai (un peu) découvert un homme que je ne connaissais pas et qui avait l'air plutôt sympathique. Depuis quelques temps, j'ai découvert d'autres chansons dont beaucoup m'ont séduit et j'essaie désormais de trouver celles que je ne connais pas encore (et il y en a pas mal !). Il n'est malheureusement pas facile, au moins en France, de trouver des éditions de David McWilliams ! À quand un intégral ?
Sunday, December 23rd 2007
Entry 264
Name: Jeff Willorun  |  Country: France  |  b24music@orange.fr
I'm a blues player, and The days of Pearly Spencer will be on my next record, I hope next year. I heard this song for the first time in 1968. Thank you David
Saturday, December 22nd 2007
Entry 263
Name: Joseph O'Beirne  |  Country: England  |  jobeirne07@aol.com
David McWilliams was part of my growing up,when my parents moved from Dublin to london,i always remember his music on the raido or listning to my dads Reel to reel tape recorder,he had recorded from Radio Caroline,i only have one CD,(the days of David McWilliams)wich i listen to a lot,I love my,For Josephine,as well as the all the other tracks. God Bless Joseph
Tuesday, December 18th 2007
Entry 262
Name: Jorge Machado  |  Country: Brazil - Sao Paulo - SP  |  jorgemach@ig.com.br
What Emotion ! The Days of Pearly Spencer song belongs to the soundtrack of my life. It reminds me the better period of my life. I even get tears in my eyes, when I hear that song. A Song of Millenium! It´s forever ! Thanks for create this site because a great singer as David McWilliams really deserve this tender tribute. Thank you Lord for David McWilliams ! Thank you David McWilliams !
Saturday, December 8th 2007
Entry 261
Name: ELIO  |  Country: ITALY  |  coriani.elio@libero.it
I MET DAVE IN 1973,I THIK IT'S TIME TO REVIVE EMOTINS OF THE DAYS?
Sunday, December 2nd 2007
Entry 260
Name: Chantal Vanderlinden  |  Country: Belgium  |  starofindia.management@yahoo.fr
I will always remember David Mc Willimas and his wonderful song Days of Pearly Spencer. I saw him in London in the 70s and if I remember well he appeared at the Marque where I saw him. It was a fantastic night which I will never forget. It is very sad that he died so young.
Sunday, November 25th 2007
Entry 259
Name: eugene  |  Country: england  |  scanit_3 @hotmail .com
lost track of his work through the years,always hard to keep copies of the goood stuff. You tube's aking for a get there by candlelight
Friday, November 23rd 2007
Entry 258
Name: Christy  |  Country: UK  |  info@zenuk.com
Hi, The site looks better everytime I stop by! All the best Christy
Sunday, November 18th 2007
Entry 257
Name: Gk1  |  Country: Germany  |  bbj1921@hotmail.com
He was one of the greatest musicians ever. God bless you Mr. McWilliams
Friday, November 2nd 2007
Entry 256
Name: claudio rojas  |  Country: chile  |  claudio_rp@hotmail.com
Since I was 10 or so I havew heared The Days of Pearly Spencer now I got the video and mp3 I have alwais loved the song, I would like to know what is the lyric about, who is pearly spencer. I want you to know that there is a cover by a spanish femal singer, dont know who poor lyric anyway I agree a great singer and writer not preocupated of charts Claudio
Friday, November 2nd 2007
Entry 255
Name: niall mc bride  |  Country: ireland  |  oisinmcbride@eircom.net
Monday, October 15th 2007
Entry 254
Name: robert cox  |  Country: hebredies  |  cox718@btinternet.com
i was so happy having after searching for 10 + years to finally get my hands on a copy of pearly. a great artist - much neglected
Thursday, October 11th 2007
Entry 253
Name: Hervé Macherez  |  Country: France  |  herve.macherez@free.fr
Bonjour, C'est un de mes premiers disques vinyls 33 t. Je l'ai acheté juste avant Noël. Déjà j'avais les cheveux longs (pour l'époque), ce qui me mettait en conflit avec mon père. Il n'aimait pas la musique que j'écoutais, mais avec ce disque "Days of Pearly Spencer", on s'est un peu réconcilié. J'ai toujours aimé ce disque. Merci d'avoir créé ce site.
Saturday, September 29th 2007
Entry 252
Name: peter mcaleer  |  Country: clones ireland  |  petermcaleer05@eircom.netloved
loved his music since i bought his first l.p. in 1967 saw live in manchester in 68 the best singer songwriter ever to come out of ireland was sorry to hear of his untimely death i sing and play many of his great songs great web site
Saturday, September 8th 2007
Entry 251
Name: ROBERT EVANS  |  Country: ENGLAND  |  robert54_@hotmail.com
I AM SO SHOCKED TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF DAVID,HE WAS A BRILLIANT SONGWRITER AND VERY MUCH UNDERATED I REMEMBER BUYING THE LP WHICH INCLUDED MY FAVOURITE POVERTY STREET,AND I THOUGHT THIS BOY IS GOING TO BE A LEGEND .AS A FORMER BALLYCASTLE BOY I DID NOT KNOW HE LIVED THERE AS I HAVENT BEEN BACK FOR MANY YEARS.
Monday, August 20th 2007
Entry 250
Name: Andy Gannon  |  Country: uk  |  Andrew@andrewgannon6.wanadoo.co.uk
Wanted to know what the great man looked like, now i know, thanx for fitting web site, felt really comfy,love and enjoy all davids endeavours, me and pearly go back a long long time, you"ll never know how long!
Friday, August 17th 2007
Entry 249
Name: RON DAVIES  |  Country: ENGLAND  |  rondav@btopenworld.com
I have always been a fan of David, I have to say that the first two albums 'Singing Songs by...' and 'Volume Two' are indisputably my favourites. I'm mystified why 'Hey Sally Sally' doesn't appear on any of the compliation CSs I've come across. Good luck with everything the Society does. It's fitting that such a unique artist should be commemorated in this way. He always struck me as a bloke I'd like to go for a drink with, and that's just about the best way of loking at smeone.
Friday, August 10th 2007
Entry 248
Name: José Luis  |  Country: Spain  |  jlperezjota@yahoo.es
Brilliant!
Monday, August 6th 2007
Entry 247
Name: Iris Percy  |  Country: Spain  |  irisdon@hotmail.com
One of the most under rated singer/songwriters of our time, I remember him well--R:I:P.David,---Iris
Saturday, August 4th 2007
Entry 246
Name: Stephen Barry  |  Country: Newtownards co down  |  stephen.barry3@tiscali.co.uk
Just heard Brian Houston and Davids grand children on radio 2 Johnny Walker play the song. Brilliant! Took me back a lot of years to when I was a young teenager in Sussex, I loved that song especially as David was from 'back home'and I could boast to my English mates 'he's from Norn Iron you know'. Lost a great talent when he passed on. Stephen(oulgundog)Barry
Sunday, July 15th 2007
Entry 245
Name: norman law  |  Country: ballymena  |  norman.law@talktalk.net
I remember as a lad playing football in the Rectory Estate with the Stewarts.Jackie Clarke.Jackie Fullerton and many more local boys of which Big Davy was one.. Davy was in goals, we both went for the ball after the dust had settled it transpired that Davy had broke his thumb nail..Next day he was heading off to a gig in Dublin.minus his guitar pluckin thumb nail..Always remember that incident after all these years .Davy was a fine man and over the years I was fortunate to meet him on several occasions.. He never changed ,was always a down to earth guy.. He will be sadly missed.but always remembered
Thursday, July 12th 2007
Entry 244
Name: Michèl Dörfler  |  Country: Germany  |  nite-city@yahoo.de
Today would be David's 62nd birthday. It's so sad that he passed away that early, even now, years after, I cannot believe it. I'm just 19 years old. I never got the chance to see or hear him live. But everytime I put on of his records onto my record-player (yes, there are people in my age honouring the good old vinyl), I feel his strong presence and his warm voice, no matter if it's the his debut LP or the "Don't Do It For Love"-Album. Many years I worked for a local radio station here in Chemnitz, eastern Germany. One thing I dd there was to make a one-hour broadcast about David McWilliams. David, wherever you are, I wish you all the best. With greetings, Michèl
Wednesday, July 4th 2007
Entry 243
Name: Larraine Somers (Sowter)  |  Country: UK  |  dean.somers1@ntlworld.com
I am Gil McWilliams niece and therefore David's daughters cousin. I never met Daid, however I have heard alot about him and listened to alot of his music whilst growing up. I have even sung 'Days of Pearly Spencer' to my son to try and settle him to sleep on numerous occasions! Great idea, having the children do the backing vocals. Can't wait to hear it. Love to all the family Larraine xx
Thursday, June 28th 2007
Entry 242
Name: David Richardson  |  Country: Ireland  |  drichardson@deloitte.ie
Have listened to and loved David's music for the past 37 years--Pearly Spencer is one of the great songs of the sixties
Monday, June 25th 2007
Entry 241
Name: wassim azouri  |  Country: sweden  |  wassim.azouri@vida.se
this sight is the best. 2 of the best songs ever written and sung are available, the stranger and the days of pearly spencer.In my opignon David Mc Williams was one of the best song writers and singers.I heard these 2 titles the first time when I was a nine year old kid in my home town Beirut, still they are my 2 favorites, I have the days of pearly spencer on CD, Ep and tape,even in Italien by Catarina Caselli but I still cannot find the stranger anywere. David´s songs and music will live long, it is one of a kind.
Saturday, June 2nd 2007
Entry 240
Name: Chris Hopkins  |  Country: England  |  chrishopkins2007@btinternet.com
Sad to here that David had died "Days of Pearly Spencer" has so many memories of the 60s for me. A great singer songwriter
Wednesday, May 16th 2007
Entry 239
Name: Keith Marwood  |  Country: Saudi Arabia  |  keefmarwood@hotmail.com
I remember David's songs on Radio Caroline in the sixties. I loved them, as did all my friends. I had no money to buy records or I would have bought them all. I regard him as the greatest unrewarded musical talent ever and I heard of his death with great sorrow. Perhaps one day he will get the recognition he richly deserves, even if it was not what he longed for. He has made many people happy with his music. May his memory and music last forever.
Wednesday, May 2nd 2007
Entry 238
Name: Ray Shields  |  Country: England  |  rayshields007@aol.com
My everlasting memories of the sixties will always be David Mcwilliams
Monday, April 16th 2007
Entry 237
Name: veldt  |  Country: UK  |  info@veldt.co.uk
Only really discovered David in the last few years, but blow me, the man has been an inspiration. As a band, we revel in songs like 'I Love Susie in the Summer' and wish that we could write A-sides as good as this man's B-sides. Rarely music is so good that it takes you somewhere else. David McWilliams made this kind of music.
Friday, April 13th 2007
Entry 236
Name: P.S.JEWSON  |  Country: ENGLAND  |  philip.jewson@bt.com
i bought all the early albums when they were released and have been a fan ever since now aged 57
Wednesday, April 4th 2007
Entry 235
Name: Bob farrow  |  Country: London  |  bob@bobfarrow.com
Whenever I listen to 'Days of Pearly Spencer' I get the very same feeling in me that I did the very first time I heard it. Only half a dozen songs still do that to me. A modest musical genius.
Thursday, March 29th 2007
Entry 234
Name: John Jordan  |  Country: USA  |  sluggerjordan@hotmail.com
My apologies...a trick of the memory..the album is of course, "The Beggar and The Priest."
Friday, March 9th 2007
Entry 233
Name: John Jordan  |  Country: USA  |  Sluggerjordan@hotmail.com
I have just learned with great sadness of the death of David.I was introduced to him by his sister, who wanted to know why I was playing his music at an Antrim Planning exhibition which I had designed and set up for the Ballymena Development Commission in the early seventies. Over the years I bugged friends to send me his new albums to America. I remember once having to walk miles and miles to collect "The Beggar and The Thief" in freezing cold rain, and it became one of my favourite albums. May he rest in peace.
Friday, March 9th 2007
Entry 232
Name: Hans Kemperman  |  Country: Holland  |  j.kemperman7@chello.nl
I am surprised David is dead. I didn't know. Nice singer with great songs.
Wednesday, March 7th 2007
Entry 231
Name: Brian Brett  |  Country: Australia  |  bwbf@optusnet.com.au
I have been a fan of David McWilliams since I first heard The Lord Of Offaly album in 1973. I am also from Belfast and now live in Australia.I am also a musician and moved from rock music to celtic folk.My band is called Silken Thomas and many people ask me where the name came from. I always refer to Davids album. I was in Belfast on holiday when I heard the news that David died.It's nice his memory is still alive, keep up the good work
Sunday, March 4th 2007
Entry 230
Name: Gordon Trievnor  |  Country: UK  |  gtrievnor@fsmail.net
Just looking through some old sixties records and found how much the words and music of songs like 'Can I Get There By Candlelight' and 'Lady Helen Of The Laughing Eyes'remain as brilliant today as they were all that time ago. David was blessed with a remarkable talent and long may it be remembered.
Tuesday, January 1st 2002
Entry 229
Name: Brendan Behan  |  Country: England  |  brendanbehan@tiscali.co.uk
I saw and met David at a concert in Colston Hall Bristol in 1967. He was appearing with the Dubliners and Dominic Behan. Pearly Spencer was in the charts and it was a great show. He was a great singer / Songwriter. He is sadly missed.
Thursday, February 8th 2007
Entry 228
Name: Pete McDonnell  |  Country: Wales  |  Petermcd26@hotmail.com
January has just gone and it was a time to remember David and his music.I have just had a David McWilliams month Redundancy Blues, Marlena, Down by the Dockyard, the wonderful Lord Offaly album and the beautiful Hannah Is'nt Home from the great Using Me and many, many more. The website is fantastic and a fitting tribute to David. Great to hear Meghan's music,lovely voice and songs, obviously following her Dad. Great to read about all the things going on in Ballymena, concerts for David, the Society and lots of interest in his music, which will go on forever. To all involved keep the great work going, David will always be with us.
Wednesday, January 31st 2007
Entry 227
Name: Lewis Corner  |  Country: Australia  |  Bootlebarth@mac.com
'The Days of Pearly Spencer' was one of the few singles I ever bought. At the time, it was a largely neglected classic. I was sorry to read that David is dead, but pleased to learn that he was a quiet, shy, caring man, much loved by his children. For me, the race is almost run. I wish I'd done so well in it as David.
Wednesday, January 31st 2007
Entry 226
Name: john hayes  |  Country: England  |  john@johnhayes.co.uk
When I was a teenager I'm 53 now david was without compromise the best folk singer around i'm going back in time and have just rediscovered him so sorry he isn't around any more at least in the flesh he will always be here in his music
Friday, January 26th 2007
Entry 225
Name: Mat Hoffmann  |  Country: France  |  beastieboys1@msn.com
Hi ! You should write an article about David McWilliams on Wikipedia ... shouldn't you ? it's terrible to see that there's no page devoted to him, and I think that YOU're the man. Bye and thanks for this stuff.
Monday, January 15th 2007
Entry 224
Name: martin  |  Country: northern ireland  |  martin@fsmail.net
i am new to david mcwilliams music. i got to know about it by meeting colin agnew. he has such a passion for his music.i have enjoyed this web site and it has helped educate me in his music and the work that is ongoing to promote a tribute album to david mcwilliams.i hope it works out and i will try and help in anyway i can.
Wednesday, December 27th 2006
Entry 223
Name: Benno Hoffmann  |  Country: Germany  |  CorbenHoffmann@t-online.de
Dear Webmaster, it was not before two days ago that I found out that David McWilliams died nearly 5 years ago. Accidentally I found your fantastic website and saw that there are not that many articles about David. As I collected the issues of the NME in the 60s I remembered David being on the front page on Oct.7 and Oct. 21.and I found them in my "archives". I took digital photos of these and would like to send them to you in case you are interested. All I need is your e-mail address. Sincerely Benno
Monday, December 25th 2006
Entry 222
Name: Kate Oliver  |  Country: UK  |  kateoliver001@hotmail.com
there are some photos on www.cushendun2006.co.uk of David and Gil taken in the Blueroom, probably very early 70's some more to be put on in the next few weeks. Fond memories....................!
Monday, December 11th 2006
Entry 221
Name: Shannon McWilliams  |  Country: N. Ireland  |  thefatdadsessions@hotmail.co.uk
Hi. David's son here, just to let people know that would be interested, I have started a local musicians night in Ballycastle called The Fat Dad Sessions, the aim being to give young and old people the platform to perform music, poetry and any form of the arts to a willing audience!!! For more info see http://thefatdadsessions.bebo.com or http://www.myspace.com/thefatdadsessions OR if ye would like te hear my sister Meghan McWilliams http://pearlydayz.bebo.com She also plays with other local artists, please take a look and a listen and let us know what ye think!!!! Thank You Shannon.
Tuesday, December 5th 2006
Entry 220
Name: Ben Watkins  |  Country: England  |  benwatkins9876@hotmail.com
I am a great fan of Davids music and have nearly all of his albums and most of them I have 2 or maybe 3 times. I am keeping a set of the LPs for my self but am seeling all my duplicates on my website at the moment www.bensvinylbasement.com aling with many other greats singer songwriters from davids era of the 60s and 70's mainly.Please take a look at my website to see images of Davids great albums that I am selling. Many Thanks for such a great website including brilliant videoclips of David as I wasnt lucky enough to ever see him live. www.bensvinylbasement.com
Tuesday, November 14th 2006
Entry 219
Name: Boris  |  Country: Germany  |  boris.ewald@t-online.de
We will never forget you. Your Music stays forever. Thanks for a great Time!
Tuesday, October 31st 2006
Entry 218
Name: Christy  |  Country: UK  |  info@zenuk.com
Hey Sjef, Always enjoy stoping by to look and listen. Hope all is well with you. I've been busy with www.bryanmaclean.com building a new site and my band the Mandrakes www.mandrakes.org if you have a moment to take a look. Will email you about how you made the flash video things soon...? All the best Christy
Saturday, October 28th 2006
Entry 217
Name: Graham Rogers  |  Country: Australia  |  grogers22@hotmail.com
I remember very clearly buying "pearly" at the shop at the caravan park in south Port Hedland in Western Australia in early 1969. I think i still have this record and cover somewhere in the house. I clearly remember finding this vinyl record jewel of David's amongst all the others in the wire rack. His music was and still is magic, every now and then a local Perth radio station plays "pearly" and the memories come flooding back. Thank you David for being part of my early years.
Saturday, October 21st 2006
Entry 216
Name: Dubois Olivier  |  Country: France  |  duboisoliv@wanadoo.fr
Un petit mot pour saluer la mémoire d’un homme qui par « The days of Pearly Spencer » a éclairé mon enfance et a contribué à me sensibiliser à la musique et au monde qui m’entoure. En effet chaque fois que j’entendais ce titre à la radio et même si je n’en comprenais pas les paroles, je ressentais une sensation étrange au plus profond de mon être. C’est difficile à décrire, mais un mélange de bien-être et d’angoisse me saisissait, sans doute à cause des violons et du ton de la voix qui me semblait parler de choses inquiétantes. J’avais à l’époque 6 ou 7 ans mais je me souviens que lorsque c’était fini, je trouvais toujours que ce moment avait été bien trop court. Jamais je n’avais eu la possibilité d’en connaître l’interprète ni le titre. Le seul mot que j’avais en mémoire était « Spencer ». C’est seulement aujourd’hui en recherchant sur Internet juste d’après mes souvenirs (j’ai aujourd’hui presque 44 ans) à l’aide des mots suivants « chanson spencer 60’s » que j’ai enfin « découvert » qui était derrière cette chanson. Merci à vous. Salut David… Olivier.
Wednesday, October 11th 2006
Entry 215
Name: Paul Rusling  |  Country: UK  |  rusling@broadcast.net
David's early songs were a vital part of the backdrop to my teenage years - listening to Radio Caroline, which played his releases incessantly. In the 1970s (i joined Radio Caroline, and among the tracks we played were GOLD, the theme song to a movie directed by Caroline's owner, fellow Irishman Ronan O'Rahilly. One of my colleagues there was a guy by the name of Jimmy hollihan, who urged us to play David's new album, the Beggar and the Priest. I never needed much persuasion and one of the tracks 'Leave the Bottles on the Floor' became a firm favoruite - i think it could have been a big hit for him had it been released as a single - and of course had the record company done anything to promote it. The following year, Dutch offshore pirate Radio Veronica closed down and 'Can I get there by Candlelight' was one of the last tracks it played, sealing DSavid's memory forever in those watery wireless years. His lyurics were mind grabbing and the melodies haunting -he'll always be somewhere in my mind. And thats a great comfort. Paul Alexander Rusling
Monday, October 9th 2006
Entry 214
Name: George C  |  Country: Australia  |  kinshinkai@hotmail.com
great , great job on this memorial website to a wonderful artist who should never be forgotten.
Friday, September 29th 2006
Entry 213
Name: stan turner  |  Country: england  |  stanturner2@aol.com
David's music was brilliant in the 60's and like good wine even better now I have gone back to it. I have had my old Pearly Spencer LP made into a CD,I play it in the car all the time it's fantastic.
Monday, September 25th 2006
Entry 212
Name: Andy Stephens  |  Country: England  |  andyhstephens@aol.com
Great site. Long may this guys memory live on.
Sunday, September 24th 2006
Entry 211
Name: Peter Molloy  |  Country: The Glens!  |  molloyep@yahoo.co.uk
Brilliant site and a superb tribute to one of nature's gentlemen
Friday, September 22nd 2006
Entry 210
Name: Dr. Ralf Schauer  |  Country: Germany  |  dr.schauer@dr-schauer.de
I'm looking for the song "circles" ? Who can help me ?
Saturday, September 2nd 2006
Entry 209
Name: Hassan Omran  |  Country: England
Days of Pearly Spencer is such a wonderful song, I wish I heard it live..
Thursday, August 17th 2006
Entry 208
Name: Patrick Hurley  |  Country: France  |  patrick.hurley@free.fr
Having been living in France since early 2002 I was totally unaware, and therefore terribly saddened to learn, of the passing of David McWilliams. His music has been a cornerstone to my listening since my teenage years in the late 60's and only this morning I was playing the vinyl album 'Days of David McWilliams'. Thankyou David for so many years of beautiful and poignant music. You never got the recoginiton you deserved. Thank God for Radio Caroline, without whom I would never have got to know your music. Love to all your surviving family.
Sunday, August 6th 2006
Entry 207
Name: Freddie O'Neill  |  Country: Australia  |  theoneills@arach.net.au
Got this site from the Ballymena Times story about the meeting in Ballymena August 2006 for David fans. I was 2 years younger but played football on the rectory field with David and a host of others way back in the late 50's early 60's.I remember he was the goalie.We lived in Glendun Drive close to his home at the top of the street.I remember when he was doing his music and I think was bankrolled by Ronnie Holden and a few others to get his songs on record. I remember singing some of his songs in Australia back in the late 60's.It's great to see that he is being remembered in Ballymena as one of it's finest sons.Congratulations to all those responsible
Sunday, August 6th 2006
Entry 206
Name: Susanne Kottenstein  |  Country: Germany  |  s.kottenstein@web.de
Very good and interesting site! Thank you for so many information about David McWilliams. I am desperatly seeking "Circles" of the 1979 album "When I was a dancer" Does anybody know where I can find the Song or the hole album? Thank you and regards from Germany!
Monday, July 17th 2006
Entry 205
Name: warwick  |  Country: uk  |  warwickllewleyn@yahoo.co.uk
Catching up, I'm so sad the the man passed away without me knowing. I remember some of his music but never had the time, at the time to listen. He was so underrated: but then we were all so much in a hurry to see and experience everything the world had to offer and what an exciting world it was then. Still he left his music which will last forever, no bad thing. Kind regards Warwick
Monday, July 10th 2006
Entry 204
Name: Kalle Hunsaker  |  Country: USA  |  osiris322(at)hotmail.com
Thanks for this labour of love. Obviously a man who cared and felt deeply, and I offer my respects to him and his family. Namaste--I honor the God within You Kal San Diego CA USA
Monday, July 10th 2006
Entry 203
Name: Thomas  |  Country: Germany/Europe  |  thomas@vox-celesta.de
Great site, I'm just listening to "The Days Of Pearly Spencer" and it's so emotional... Our band is working on a(nother) coverversion of this song - I know that we'll never "reach" the original, but I hope we can catch a few people so they notice this unique songwriter David McW.
Tuesday, July 4th 2006
Entry 202
Name: Thomas Fitzpatrick  |  Country: Ireland  |  tefitzpatrick@hotmail.com
One of the greatest singer song writers ever. He sang about life and he sang what he saw.
Monday, June 26th 2006
Entry 201
Name: Simon Brown  |  Country: UK  |  info@simonbrownphotography.com
I remember bumping into Harlem Lady and Days of Pearly Spencer and Poverty Street in the early 1970's and never forgot the music. So good to have them playing again now in 2006. Thanks.
Monday, June 26th 2006
Entry 200
Name: Bernard HAMAN  |  Country: France  |  bernard.haman@laposte.net
Je me rappelle bien de cette chanson, Pearly Spencer. Quand j'avais sept ans, mon père avait acheté ce disque. J'ai longtemps cru que ça parlait d cvourse automobile. Dernièrement, j'ai acheté une compilation en CD, "flower pwer Love Power", à cause de cette chanson et de son auteur-interprète. Le site est bien documenté et complet. Il n'y a rien en français, tant pis. J'aime aussi d'aures titres que j'ai découvert sur votre site.
Monday, June 26th 2006
Entry 199
Name: Tom Clonan  |  Country: Australia  |  tclonan@hotmail.com
Really great! a buzz down memory lane.
Sunday, June 25th 2006
Entry 198
Name: Sammy Meeke  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  sammy.meeke@btopenworld.com
Around 1966 I worked with Brian Robinson,an early contributor to this site who had known David well for some time and wrote a very nice piece about him for the local Ballymena newspapers at the time of his passing.One day at work he gave me this piece of black plastic shaped like a 45rpm vinyl single but not as rigid and only recorded on one side with no details on it as to content or who it was by.Brian informed me it was a Demo Disc of 'God and My Country', and was to be David Mc Williams first record release.I took it home, played it continously and was mightily impressed.Some of his later recordings showed that this man could write a good song with the best of them.Congratulations on an excellent,comprehensive and very much deserved website to a very talented musician. Reading all the tributes, articles and listening to the video clips brought back many happy memories from 66 to 69 in places like the Four Ways,Tues(I think)Folk nights in the Abercorn(Borrow 10 Bob from John Agnew,pay him back on Fri)and the Blue Room at the Bay Hotel in Cushendun.
Wednesday, June 21st 2006
Entry 197
Name: geoff  |  Country: england  |  su5272@eclipse.co.uk
The second album is the one 60's album (by any artist) I revisit time and time again. It is truly wonderful and I thankyou for that. A great loss.
Wednesday, June 21st 2006
Entry 196
Name: Xander Joseph  |  Country: USA  |  xander_joseph@earthlink.net
I am so excited to have been invited to this site! It is wonderful, and I see, a lot of work went into it! I look forward to meeting you all in cyberspace! If anyone wants to contact me...please do!
Wednesday, June 7th 2006
Entry 195
Name: Danbiel Aelbrecht  |  Country: Belgium  |  suavis@gmail.com
David, I was not aware you already left us. It was a shock for me. I enjoyed and do enjoy your music. Thank you for what you gave us : beautiful music ! Daniel
Friday, May 26th 2006
Entry 194
Name: Billy Stage  |  Country: Earth Planet
David, It was before I meet her, It was before I went into music, It was before I changed my name to keep only the very best, It was before I could understand your words, I was in France,perhaps a little baby, From Days of Pearly Spencer,I had only the vibrations of your voice,and it was,and it's for ever,the great sun's heartbeats...and anything else... This song never left me. I remember the end of the sixties,Eleanor Rigby, and Ireland too, And now I often walk too far along the streets, And the race is almost run. So long David, So long my friends, Billy Stage.
Monday, May 22nd 2006
Entry 193
Name: Ian Smith  |  Country: England  |  ian-smith@operamail.com
Thank You. I very much appreciate the the Caterina Caselli video which i yesterday plyed over Skype to a friend in Bulgaria. Love Light and peace, Ian
Sunday, May 21st 2006
Entry 192
Name: Chris Hopkins  |  Country: England  |  chris.hopkins.1@hotmail.co.uk
If ever a song reflected the 60s it was THE DAYS OF PEARLY SPENCER having found the CD recently it brought back many memories of them days in the late 60s David McWilliams music will live on a true musician
Monday, May 8th 2006
Entry 191
Name: Erick GIULIANO  |  Country: France  |  les.giuliano@free.fr
This site is a wonderful tribute, and I could learn so much from David McWilliams. It brings him close to Jack London in my mind, and I wish he could be there only to thank him. Merci vraiment, c'est beaucoup d'émotion. Erick.
Friday, April 28th 2006
Entry 190
Name: GORDON  |  Country: SCOTLAND
Hadnae heard 'Pearly' for decades until it was played on 'Brian Mathews' 60's show on BBC Radio 2 last Saturday. New nothing about David until an hour ago. Wonderful. Your site does the guy justice.How strange things are in life. Heard the record when I was 13 and now at 52 am about tae buy stuff he recorded in the intervening 40 years. Thanks for all your efforts. BIG G
Thursday, April 20th 2006
Entry 189
Name: Hannah  |  Country: ireland  |  mcwilliams-h@ulster.ac.uk
This site is excellent. Every time i look at it i find more stuff i would never have been able to get otherwise, especially the video clips and the old photos. Thanks for giving us such a beautiful document of dad's life and music. It's nice to read the guestbook to see how appreciated and loved he is, by friends and strangers- there are people from all over the world on here! Keep up the good work!!! Hannah. ps. Meghan, are you lost or something?
Thursday, April 13th 2006
Entry 188
Name: P & A  |  Country: USA  |  HFHMFTFS@MSN.COM
We recently heard 'Days of Pearly Spencer" on Radio Free Phoenix (AZ) internet stream. We Googled David and ordered Days of Pearly Spencer/Harlem Lady CD. How could this guy have gone largely unnoticed in the USA is astonishing. We're sorry he's gone.
Monday, April 10th 2006
Entry 187
Name: Des  |  Country: England
Once upon a time I looked on David as my best friend. Sadly those days are gone but I still have memories from Ballymena Tech, the Torpedo Factory and football on the Rectory field. God Bless and keep you David. To all of David's family my deepest sympathies
Monday, April 10th 2006
Entry 186
Name: Marianne  |  Country: France  |  eyryn@hotmail.com
Hello everybody! Just wanted to congratulate all the team for creating a website dedicated to David McWilliams!! It's a great idea and I hope it will enable some people to discover him [like me ; I just knew "Pearly Spencer" -through my uncle and aunt (who still have the vinyl single!!) and my mother- and I wanted to learn more about him and found your site, which is very interesting! I'll try and buy some less well-known music by David Mc Williams because you made me feel like discovering his work further!]. Also, I wish to say you are right in stating that he had great success in France. David, we have not forgotten you!! ^_^ Many, many people remember him well and like to recall and sing Pearly Spencer and they have passed the song on to their children. I literally "inherited" this beautiful song and the vinyl single is almost a family heirloom! ^_^ Thank you everybody for your great site! Bye Bye!
Monday, April 10th 2006
Entry 185
Name: linda preston  |  Country: UK  |  lindapreston@btinternet.com
I only know David's work through Pearly Spencer but I was fascinated to watch the video clips on this site of some of his other work. He was tremondously talented and so young when he composed Pearly Spencer.
Tuesday, April 4th 2006
Entry 184
Name: hélène Lagier  |  Country: France  |  hlnelagier@yahoo.fr
When I was young I adored "The days of Pearly Spencer" in 1969.
Saturday, March 25th 2006
Entry 183
Name: JOHN BARNETT  |  Country: england  |  john.barnett590@ntlworld.com
great site! SAD LOSS DAVID McWILLIAMS [ THE DAYS OF PEARLY SPENCER ] WILL ALWAYS BRING BACK GREAT MEMORIES OF THE 60S.FOR ME. WE HAVE LOST ONE OF THE ALL TIME GREAT SINGER SONGWRITERS. HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE ON,! JOHN BARNETT
Saturday, March 25th 2006
Entry 182
Name: meghan  |  Country: ireland
hello, just having a look!!!
Saturday, March 25th 2006
Entry 181
Name: John 'Dusty' Connor  |  Country: U.S.A. (Ex Brit Pat.)  |  dustylad813@aol.com
Good Nite & God Bless David,I still play all Your great songs !!You where an exceptional and most underated 'talent' You will always live on thru Your poetic music...best regards John Connor.
Friday, March 24th 2006
Entry 180
Name: Thierry Fournet  |  Country: Toulouse in France  |  fournet.thierry3@wanadoo.fr
Hello, I was born in 1960' and i alway heard some good musics on radio stations. So I knew "Days of Pearly Spencer" as a wery good song, but until today,i didn't knew the story of his creater. I own a 45t of this song from 1975. When does exactly this single was recording ? ( day & month ). It's a pity than David was not as popular as he merit. This site is a wery good one for discovering this great songsinger.
Monday, March 13th 2006
Entry 179
Name: David Russ  |  Country: Australia  |  d.russ@student.qut.edu.au
Thanks for providing the great film clips of The Days of Pearly Spencer. This song was equal to to anything by the Beatles at that time. David
Thursday, March 2nd 2006
Entry 178
Name: Brenda Laverty  |  Country: Ireland
Hi, Brenda here from Ballycastle. David was an amazing man, and an even more amazing dad... i remember him cooking three different meals for three different girls, Shonnee in one arm, Megan hanging on one leg, Hannah pulling on his arm. And every one of them felt like they were the most special person in the room. He is sorely missed. Love him and his girls!! brenda. xo
Sunday, February 26th 2006
Entry 177
Name: Anna Burleigh  |  Country: Ireland
He was lovely, and I miss him.
Thursday, February 23rd 2006
Entry 176
Name: André  |  Country: The Netherlands  |  logicmail@wanadoo.nl
Just heard an old taped Tony Allen advertisment making publicity for David's Album "Livin'is just a state of Mind." That was on Radio Caroline in the Seventies. Now I am so delighted and surprised by this nice website to never forget David with that wonderful voice and great compositions.
Thursday, February 16th 2006
Entry 175
Name: Cathal Hipwell  |  Country: Ireland  |  chipwell@bismail.ucc.ie
Hi everyone. I first came across this website one year ago. In fact, I left a message here saying how much I admired David. Well, one year on and my heart still yearns for his inspirational lyrics. They have touched me in a way I never thought possible, especially in a time when I broke up with my long-term boyfriend Hans. I will always turn to David in times of need. Happy Valentines day everyone, wherever you may be on this beautiful day.
Tuesday, February 14th 2006
Entry 174
Name: adrian vidler  |  Country: england  |  adrian.vidler@excite.com
his music was really good and undervalued--- he was to me a real 60's icon --- such an original writer. The graet pity for me is that i now have no chance to meet him.with the greatest of respect. adrian vidler
Wednesday, February 1st 2006
Entry 173
Name: Jude  |  Country: UK
Hi! My partner and I run http://www.rhythmonline.co.uk - a (small, friendly, independent) music webstore. We've just added David McWilliams' rerelease to our huge and varied list of bands and artists (we've got what is probably one of the largest, and hopefully one of the most interesting) lists of its kind on the web. Come and visit us! Cheers, Jude x
Tuesday, January 24th 2006
Entry 172
Name: Meghan  |  Pearlydayz@yahoo.com
hello there!
Sunday, January 22nd 2006
Entry 171
Name: Terry Bell  |  Country: England  |  terry.bell3@btinternet.com
One of my heroes from the sixties. Heard him first on Caroline, loved him ever since. The most underrated singer/songwriter of all time. His songs bring back wonderful memories.
Wednesday, January 11th 2006
Entry 170
Name: neil unwin  |  Country: england  |  neil.unwin@ntlworld.com
thankyou very much for this appreciation of david & his music..... i bought the major minor albums in 1967/8 & could not understand why david didn,t have a SMASH HIT with "the days of pearly spencer" single... it wasn,t the 1st & wont be the last quality recording to miss the charts of course.. but for that time that single was awesome.. but in view of the person that david was, perhaps it was for the best.... thank goodness for his music, which i,m now enjoying on the 2 RPM Records cds.. i wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR.. take care, love, neil
Thursday, December 29th 2005
Entry 169
Name: Jim McNaughton  |  Country: New Zealand  |  jim_mcnaughton@hotmail.com
memories of my salad days
Monday, December 26th 2005
Entry 168
Name: kader Hamdad  |  Country: USA  |  kdr_hamdad@yahoo.com
I was 20 in my origin country(Algeria) when I discovered the Great Irish singer David Mc Williams with his wonderful song " Days of pearly Spencer"..A new sound, new feeling..It was like a revelation for me. I felt that I was listening a voice of a lost paradise... Thank you so much for making effort to create this site. All the Best, Kader
Tuesday, December 20th 2005
Entry 167
Name: Claude MOUTON  |  Country: France  |  CLCHMOUT@aol.com
Great work for a great singer (I'm a 60' man.. lol). Thanks.
Tuesday, December 13th 2005
Entry 166
Name: Anne Clarke  |  Country: England  |  anne@mcafs.biz
I knew David back in the 1970s when my ex-husband, Bryan (Joe)Gray, introduced me to a vibrant group of regulars at the infamous Blue Room in Cushendun. We had lots of wonderful sessions with many very talented musicians, among whom were the late Tony Mc Auley. David always had to be coaxed to sing and I , for one, did not realise how prolific he was until Bryan sent me the link for this site. It's a fantastic idea and a fitting tribute to this unassuming artist, this gentle giant who never sought the limelight. David once gave me a signed album which I shall treasure forever - if I ever find it again!
Friday, December 2nd 2005
Entry 165
Name: phil randall  |  Country: gb  |  prfrandall2003@yahoo.co.uk
Great to find this guestbook - I listen to my original D.McW vinyls often and still find them good
Wednesday, November 23rd 2005
Entry 164
Name: David T  |  Country: Ireland  |  exsell@myway
Being a fan of all of David's music since the sixties, I always felt I knew him so well through his music and hearing recently of his passing, I am very saddened. I would like to offer my condolences to his family and many friends - truly a sad loss. Notwithstanding his difficulties with showbiz management of the sixties, his musical legacy is something that has and will survive all of them. For all the hours of pleasure - thank you, David.
Monday, November 14th 2005
Entry 163
Name: Richard Leslie Monaghan  |  Country: UK  |  richard.monaghan@ubs.com
The internet is a wonderful thing! Just looked up David, who I came across via Radio Caroline all those years ago. I have the "Days of..." LP, which is full of all those great songs. I didn't know he was no longer with us until today, sad, but at least we still have his music!
Wednesday, November 9th 2005
Entry 162
Name: Shonee  |  Country: N.Ireland  |  shonee_strange@hotmail.com
Haven't been on the site in an age...it's still as funky as ever! peace out!
Thursday, November 3rd 2005
Entry 161
Name: meghan mc williams  |  Country: ireland
thankyou for the photographs Sjef,the site is wonderful.Thankyou.
Monday, October 31st 2005
Entry 160
Name: Mick Knott  |  Country: England  |  mick_knott2k@yahoo.co.uk
I listened to David Mcwilliams songs when they were transmitted from the pirate radio stations. And still enjoy listening to his music. thanks david.
Saturday, October 29th 2005
Entry 159
Name: Richard Horlor  |  Country: England  |  richard@horlor.fslife.co.uk
David's music of Vol 2 has been a core part of my life. it was an LP given to me by a friend. I eventually got vol 3 LP. I am greatly saddened to find today that david has pased away and i never got to hear him live. He has been so greatly under valued by the masses but not by those who love his music. My condolences to the family. I now know that I can catch up with the newer music from the CDs. Thanks David for many great years. I hope you got there by candlelight!
Tuesday, October 25th 2005
Entry 158
Name: reginald rostock  |  Country: england  |  reginald.rostock@ntlworld.com
Both my wife and I have played Davids Music ,since I bought his Major Minor Record in the early 1960s. You say that when you met David he never left you ,I would like to say that he has never left us even though we were not able to meet him. His music should be played in its entirety not just Pearly Spencer ,He saw into the future with his songs,and they all tell a tale. Our Best Wishes to all his family, Reg and Betty Rostock.XXX and God Bless.
Tuesday, October 11th 2005
Entry 157
Name: Paul Summers  |  Country: United Kingdom  |  paul.summers@dwp.gsi.gov.uk
Playing my old vinyl copy of David McWilliams first album last night. Only 'discovered' him a few years ago but the more I listen to him the more I realise how good his first 3 records are. Just beautiful stuff. Hope they release them on CD soon.
Friday, October 7th 2005
Entry 156
Name: englishgary  |  Country: USA  |  garyireland3@hotmail.com
The days of Pearly Spencer was one of the best songs from the 60's he was a brittliant performer and wrote so many fantastic songs! Gary
Tuesday, October 4th 2005
Entry 155
Name: Roger Licot  |  Country: USA  |  rogerlicot@sbcglobal.net
"Days of Pearly Spencer" was--and will always-- remain one of the greatest songs ever written. It's music as well is unforgettable of course, but, just the way the lyrics are written is masterful. I'm a painter, and at times, when a create a new painting I sometimes have that feeling of "it's just the way I wanted it to come out, just the way it should be..nothing to add or change!" not because I am conceided, but just because "you just know" you just "feel"it. When David wrote this, he must have had that feeling, that certitude! I'm 53 years old, I heard "Days of Pearly Spencer" for the first time back in 1967 or 68..I STILL love it and still look at it as a masterpiece!
Sunday, October 2nd 2005
Entry 154
Name: David Mellor  |  Country: England  |  davidcmellor1006@hotmail.com
I have just managed to buy a copy of the first album which I originally had in the sixties.What a fantastic record.I am now hoping to collect the currect CD's that are available.I think this site is fantastic.All the best wishes - David Mellor
Thursday, September 22nd 2005
Entry 153
Name: Frances McLernon  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  fmla.mclernon@ulster.ac.uk
Hi Nanno, Helen, Mandy and Gil - a wonderful tribute to your Dad, my hero throughout the sixties and seventies. The songs, videos and photos are great. Looking forward to seeing you all at Lissanure Castle. Frances
Tuesday, September 20th 2005
Entry 152
Name: Cal Hunter  |  Country: N.IRELAND  |  WWW.CAL_HUNTER@HOTMAIL.CO.UK
I had the good fortune of performing at the Riverside theatre in coleraine where i met two of David's children. I can easily say two of the nicest people that i have ever met in my entire life, Shonee and Megan. My parents were fans of David a few years back and i have now started listening to Davids beautiful music and can safely say he is of the same quality as fellow Northern Ireland musician Van Morrisson.
Thursday, September 15th 2005
Entry 151
Name: Theo Symons  |  Country: Belgium  |  theo.symons@telenet.be
I've always liked his songs, he also had a sublime voice; I never found a CD in Belgium, even never found something on internet before until now; sad news that David already died on young age; may it be a consolation that he will always be remembered by lots of people
Saturday, September 3rd 2005
Entry 150
Name: Ron Faulkner  |  Country: Germany/Britain  |  wotsnew@yahoo.com
Thank you for a wonderful, informative and entertaing site. I have nostalgic memories of David. The year was 1967 and as a young customer service engineer my company sent me on my first ever trip abroad - to Paris. Feeling very homesick (I was "just married") I wandered into bar after bar in that great city to try and forget the "blues". In almost every one of them they were playing Days of Pearl Spencer, I'll never forget that week in Paris in'67. I cannot hear that song, or anything by David without recalling that time. I was listening recently to "sounds of the '60s on the internet when Brian Matthews mentioned David's death. I was shocked. What a great loss to us all and to the world of music in particular. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Sincerely, Ron Faulkner
Sunday, August 21st 2005
Entry 149
Name: kiara doherty  |  Country: n.ireland  |  kiarasmad@hotmail.co.uk
hey! im shonee's friend and i just want to say it's a great website! and hi to shonee because she rang to say bye but i was already on holiday sorry! Shonne is great fun and one of my best friends hope it wil last for ever! hi evryone in shonee's family exspeacialy cassie and megan and hannah and marieanna and evryone HI! hehe byebye talk to you soon shonee! xxxxxxxxxxxxoooooooooooooooooo
Tuesday, August 16th 2005
Entry 148
Name: Shannon McWilliams  |  Country: N. Ireland
It's been 2 years since I last signed this guest book nice to see the love that keeps flowing.
Friday, August 5th 2005
Entry 147
Name: a fan  |  Country: Ballycastle  |  afan@yahoo.com
Just listening to David singing Goodnight Irene on your video clip brings back many happy memories of the Blue Room in Cushendun. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Friday, August 5th 2005
Entry 146
Name: Remco  |  Country: Netherlands  |  remcopetri@home.nl
I'm like 24 years old and from the Netherlands. Probably half the average age of the visitors of this site. I haven't seen any wars and/ or other tragedies from nearbye, but the way Mr. Mc Williams explains me about what happend those days... It just touches me. The moment I got internet, I thought I can get anything I want. So, what will it be? I wanted all the things that I have always wanted. So I searched for parts of the lyric of the song I always remembered by it's beauty. I found out who wrote the song, which was The Days of Pearly Spencer, and downloaded it. Then I listened only that song for about 20 times. The next I went to buy the CD. I am a singer/ song writer myself and I can say I am really influenced by that particular song. I can only write songs in minor, which Mc Williams obviously did very good. I think this more than enough. Remco http://www.remcoweb.nl.tt [url]http://www.remcoweb.nl.tt[/url
Sunday, July 31st 2005
Entry 145
Name: Chris Mott  |  Country: England  |  chrismott50@blueyonder .co.uk
First heard D M on BBC 'Folk Club' many years ago The track was 'God and country' and had to go out and buy the album. Still as good now as it was then.
Wednesday, July 27th 2005
Entry 144
Name: Shonee  |  Country: Ireland
David like totally Rocks dude! Peace out!
Saturday, July 23rd 2005
Entry 143
Name: Helen McWilliams  |  Country: N Ireland  |  helen@mcwilliams12.wanadoo.co.uk
Hi Sjef It's great to see so many visitors to the site. Everything is looking fantastic. I just want to sincerely thankyou for all your hard work,from all of dad's children. This site has enabled our family re-establish contact with a few old friends of dad's that we haven't seen in years. Again Sjef thankyou. Helen xx
Thursday, July 21st 2005
Entry 142
Name: Tom Davies  |  Country: England  |  tedo410@aol.com
a very talented singer song writer sadly missed ,but we have still got his music
Thursday, July 21st 2005
Entry 141
Name: charentown  |  Country: france  |  charentown@free.fr
Great ... searching for years this artist. Thanks !
Wednesday, July 20th 2005
Entry 140
Name: ali robinson  |  Country: dublin
he was a great friend of my dad
Wednesday, July 13th 2005
Entry 139
Name: brian robinson  |  Country: dublin
he was a friendly guy and no one could be a better friend and he was a good goal kepper and a spurs man !!!!! ps.go spurs
Tuesday, July 12th 2005
Entry 138
Name: Tony Castell  |  Country: Canada  |  acastell8679@rogers.com
I bought David's first three MM LP's in the sixties (I lived in England in those days) and many of the songs on them are so memorable and still relevant today (Redundancy Blues, Hiroshima, etc). I am trying to update my old records on to CD's and it for that reason that I decided to check out the web. I was deeply saddened to see that David was no longer with us. I have always thought that David was most under-rated and deserved much greater recognition for his work. Reading through the other messages in the guestbook, I find so many of my own thoughts have already been expressed - I just wish I could have made them when he was still alive. God Bless you, David - thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences through your songs.
Wednesday, July 6th 2005
Entry 137
Name: john taylor  |  Country: england  |  thevicar_501@fsmail.net
david was one of my heroes in the sixties i grew up listening to him im now 56 i used to have all his albums but as you know things vanish i still have in mint singing songs,MMLP2,David Mcwilliams, MMLP10 a bit worn im afraid lent it out came back worse for wear, days of pearly spencer starline LP SRS5075 DAVID MCWILLIAMS EMC3169 mint and dont do it for love EMC 3208 mint i shall have to look out for CDs i dont think marc almonds version of days of pearly spencer had the same magic well bye for now john
Tuesday, June 28th 2005
Entry 136
Name: Alexandre Soares  |  Country: Portugal  |  asoares@cunhagomes.pt
Thank You for this lovely web site . I will love "Days of Pearly Spencer " forever , and David too .
Saturday, June 25th 2005
Entry 135
Name: Lucio Giacomelli  |  Country: Italy  |  fiabablu@libero.it
Hello! I heard today to the radio (Radio Capital) your "the days of pearly spencer" and i looked for you on the net and here you are. Bye Bye Lucio.
Wednesday, June 22nd 2005
Entry 134
Name: David Watts  |  Country: England  |  David@dwwdesign.com
Haunted by 'The days of Pearly Spencer' since it was on the radio in 1967. It's one of those few songs that stay with you forever
Monday, June 13th 2005
Entry 133
Name: Ingo Hahn-Rostock  |  Country: Germany  |  ihrostock@t-online.de
Hello, ich habe auf LP die Instrumental-Fassung von 'Days of Pearly Spencer' vom Orchester Caravelli (1968); diese Version wurde auf meiner Hochzeit von einer Orgel gespielt und begleitet meine Frau und mich bis dato (11. Juni 2005). Heute habe ich auf der Webseite von David McWilliams von seinem frühen Tod erfahren und bin sehr traurig und depremiert. Seit 1968 vergeht wohl keine Woche, in der ich nicht die Caravelli-Interpretation gehört hätte. So long and By By David McWilliams . . . . Du hast meine Leben bereichert.
Sunday, June 12th 2005
Entry 132
Name: Ingo Hahn-Rostock  |  Country: Germany  |  ihrostock@t-online.de
Hello, ich habe auf LP die Instrumental-Fassung von 'Days of Pearly Spencer' vom Orchester Caravelli (1968); diese Version wurde auf meiner Hochzeit von einer Orgel gespielt und begleitet meine Frau und mich bis dato (11. Juni 2005). Heute habe ich auf der Webseite von David McWilliams von seinem frühen Tod erfahren und bin sehr traurig und depremiert. Seit 1968 vergeht wohl keine Woche, in der nicht die Caravelli-Interpretation gehört hätte. So long and By By David McWilliams . . . . Du hast meine Leben bereichert.
Sunday, June 12th 2005
Entry 131
Name: David McWilliams  |  Country: United States  |  dmcwilliams3164@msn.com
David was my idol one of the greatest singers in the world. it was like he was my dad because he had my name. Its tragic he had to die so soon i will never forget him or his music. God Bless David.
Monday, May 23rd 2005
Entry 130
Name: Hollie
Just a note to congratulate you on the website which has taken me back to an array of fond memories!David was a great man who will be sorely missed by many
Sunday, May 22nd 2005
Entry 129
Name: Derwood Magill  |  Country: Australia  |  derwood.magill@genesyswealth.com.au
Today I was walking along the deserted beach at Hawks Nest NSW where we have a holiday house and for some reason thought of "Davy". In the mid 1960's I lived with a cousin and friend of David, Ken Campbell, at Greenview, Ballymena, while playing in the Red Admirals Showband, working at Gallahers and playing rugby for Ballymena - where did the energy come from!? I remember I either sold or gave David an "Otwin" 6 string guitar, which if I remember correctly was on the front cover of his first album.I moved to London in 1967 and after a few years on "the circuit" moved to Australia in 1971 to work in variety. In 2002 on one of my visits home I was very sorry to learn from Ken that "Davy" had passed away. Although our paths never crossed after he first went to London I have always had special memories of playing our songs and kicking a ball in the football field across the road.
Tuesday, April 26th 2005
Entry 128
Name: Shonee  |  Country: Ireland  |  jfjg
Hello again daddys website
Friday, April 22nd 2005
Entry 127
Name: tony king  |  Country: spain  |  dianetone@msn.com
i am sitting here with tears in my eyes & wishing i could turn the clock back 3 or 4 years. i bought 3 albums by david in 1967/68 & thought he was brilliant. over the years i have often wondered whatever happened to him. i have always harboured the thought of meeting him someday but never knew how to do so. i am knew to computers [a lot of people my age are] but just having a drink & chat with pal we got round to musical favourites. so i mentioned david & said i would love to know his whereabouts etc. so my mate gets on his laptop & up comes this website. i was shocked to find out he was dead. and devistated to think that if only i had more knowledge of computers i would have acted sooner,much sooner, & travelled over to meet him . the amazing thing is that reading the memorials you [his family ]describe him as just the kind of person i always imagined him to be.this i gleaned purely from his music. and now after all these years of wondering, but doing nothing about it i feel heartbroken, foolish & angry with myself for procrastinating so long.i always felt as if i knew "where he was coming from" so to speak.and always knew that we would get along & have a good craic together. i realise this may seem a little bit maudling, but i feel such a sense of loss.to find out so suddenly was a shock. please pass on my deep condolences to all his children & grandchildren.im sure he was loved by all who knew him.life can be cruel sometimes , to die so young is heartbreaking. he was my age [ a few months apart] my generation , my era, my time, my "good old days".now my mortality rears up & reminds me . we dont live for ever! tomorrow i will play his music & give my grandchildren an extra big hug & kisses. so goodbye David Mcwilliams, you may be gone but rest assured old friend your music WILL live forever.
Friday, April 22nd 2005
Entry 126
Name: Shonee  |  Country: N Ireland
This sites brill. Daddy wud ave luved it. I'm really happy to see all the messages people have left. It's nice to know he was loved by sooooooooooo many peple. COOL
Sunday, April 10th 2005
Entry 125
Name: Shonee  |  Country: N Ireland  |  Blah
Cooooool website!!!
Sunday, April 10th 2005
Entry 124
Name: Robin Ellwood  |  Country: England  |  robin_ellwood@hotmail.com
Sadly I'm not a musician but I do love music and I have always loved Days of Pearly Spencer. It always interested me what it's origins were. Thanks to this web site I now have the answer. Also what prompted me to find out more about David was after watching the Australian soap 'Neighbours' here in England yesterday (Monday 21st March 2005). One of the main characters, 'Dr Karl Kennedy', was playing a truth game with his girlfriend when she asked him what his first album was, he replied "David McWilliams, Days of Pearly Spencer". How cool is that? Obviously the writer of that episode was well aware of David. However, it would be a nice to think that that line was really an improvision by the actor himself. Nice to see the memorial from David's daughter. Thank you for those lovely words about your Daddy. You are obviously very proud of your Daddy. Thank you David for your wonderful music. You deserved so much more.
Wednesday, March 23rd 2005
Entry 123
Name: Jordan Halliday  |  Country: N.Ireland  |  DorothyO'Kane@B.T.Internet.com
Davy played football with me at his house when we stayed with him Jordan.
Monday, March 21st 2005
Entry 122
Name: Jordan Halliday  |  Country: N.Ireland  |  DorothyO'Kane@B.T.Internet.com
Davy played football with me at his house when we stayed with him Jordan.
Monday, March 21st 2005
Entry 121
Name: adrian vidler  |  Country: england  |  adrian.vidler@excite.com
david was one of my favourite artists---- JUST TO NOTE RADIO CAROLINE IS MOORED AT TILBURY NEAR ME WHERE CAROLINE AFFECTIONARDOES HAVE MANY FOND MEMORIES OF DAVID -- THEY USE TO PLAY HIM A LOT. SAD TO HEAR THAT HE HAS DEPARTED
Friday, March 11th 2005
Entry 120
Name: Cathal Hipwell
This man is a legend!
Wednesday, February 23rd 2005
Entry 119
Name: cor van nispen  |  Country: netherlands  |  grunn1953@hotmail.com
i would just like to tell all you fans that the cd when i was a dancer is availlable at:www.fonos.nl
Sunday, February 20th 2005
Entry 118
Name: Daivd K McWilliams  |  Country: US  |  dmcwill2@ford.com
Wow, Look at what a random search of my name gets me. This is cool. This is beautiful music and a beautiful tribute. I will have to spread the word of David McWilliams here in the states. thanks dave
Wednesday, February 16th 2005
Entry 117
Name: Cathryn!  |  Country: Ireland
hiya! i know shonee (for all my life by the way)! this is a really great website! The music is great too!
Saturday, February 12th 2005
Entry 116
Name: Shonee McWilliams + Meghan O' Neill  |  Country: N.Ireland  |  hi
helo, this is a great website, i'm david's daughter! my best friend meghan,is a big fan too! This websites da' bomb! ha ha!
Sunday, February 6th 2005
Entry 115
Name: stacy  |  Country: ballycastle  |  stacyhill39@hotmail.com
a great tribute to a great man...all that needs to be said
Thursday, February 3rd 2005
Entry 114
Name: Timmy Grace  |  Country: Ballyfermot, Dublin; Ireland  |  beegee1@eircom.net
Never even heard of the man 'till a friend of mine named Liam Devlin who hails from wee Ballamena but now lives and works in Dublin gave me a loan of his first EMI album. Not sure what the album was called but I'm almost certain that track two on side 2 was 'The Stranger' Who needs Dylan??
Wednesday, January 26th 2005
Entry 113
Name: Stephen Behan  |  Country: UK  |  stephen@behan.com
I well remember when David first met my father (Dominic)in the mid sixties. Dad realised very quickly what an immense talent David had and worked with him in many ways. David stayed with us for many weeks in our London home, writing songs and learning new ways to work. Dad also proposed David for membership of the PRS which helped protect some of his copyright. In those days it was typical that the publishers of this world ripped off their artists to the extent that no matter how successful they were, they were never properly paid for their efforts. At one time during the late 60s David was one of the biggest selling artists in Europe but the only people that ever made money from his work were the likes of Phil Solomon, the head of Major Minor records. All very legal but not really morally acceptable. Last time I met David was at my father's funeral in 1989. He was well and told me all about his family (Must have been a Catholic convert! Eight kids!!!) and seemed to have found some inner peace. He was a good friend and a kind man but most of all, he was a talent that lives on through his music. Stephen
Wednesday, January 26th 2005
Entry 112
Name: brian oconnor  |  Country: Sweden  |  brian.a.oconnor@comhem.se
Fair play. DElighted to see some appreciation for David. I am a musician here from Limerick trying to enlighten people about David. Keep it goin lads.
Thursday, January 20th 2005
Entry 111
Name: Tommy Halligan  |  Country: Ireland  |  erconwald@eircom.net
Came on this site looking for lyrics to David's songs. He was a one off...a unique talent . We will not hear or see his like again . Days of Pearly has haunted me since 1967, when I was 16 years of age.
Wednesday, January 19th 2005
Entry 110
Name: Sean Oliver  |  Country: Uk  |  s.oliver50@ntlworld.com
Thanks so much to all for such a magic site, a smile on my face, and great music in my heart! Sean.
Friday, January 14th 2005
Entry 109
Name: Terry  |  Country: England  |  terryinbrighton@hotmail.com
What a great tribute site to A great singer/songwriter - I had no idea David had passed on untill I came upon this site whilst searching for Davids songs to try and replace my worn out copy of Vol2 from 1967!....My condolences to his family, and its such a shame he never received the recognition or rewards that were richly deserved..I well remember my first hearing of "Days of pearly spencer" on Radio caroline and my joy at finding the LP and hearing such a great collection of haunting songs...Over the years I have enjoyed Davids songs and like many others will continue to do so.....
Monday, December 6th 2004
Entry 108
Name: Pauline & Don Chapman  |  Country: England  |  k1don@supanet.com
When we first met in 1968 David's lp Vol 2 was our music; so much so we wore it out. We used to play it continuously on the Dansett record player! Approximately 10 years ago we managed to obtain another copy from a flea market. We think it is so sad that someone so talented did not get the true recognition he so deserved. We even ventured across to Ireland in the hope of seeing him, but sadly were disappointed. It was with great sadness we learnt of his passing a couple of years ago but are so pleased to have come across this website today. We have one CD and 7 lp's plus a couple of singles and have thoroughly enjoyed sitting here for the last 2 hours or so going through the website and listings of all recordings. The 'Wounded' album we acquired came with a promotional letter from Terence Blackman of Carmel UK and a biography on David. The actual lp must be one of the very originals because the record label has been altered with a white label as it was wrongly stamped with 'Carmen' instead of Carmel. Back in 1993 I caught the tail end of the "Gerry Anderson's Ireland" show on radio 2, He was saying about tracing Irish singers / songwriters so I wrote to him, but unfortunately he wasn't very helpful and suggested I contact David's record label EMI. Whilst viewing your web site it was amazing to see the video clips of David, it's the first time we have ever seen him apart from photos on record sleeves. A really great nostalgic evening. Thanks Don & Pauline Chapman.
Sunday, November 28th 2004
Entry 107
Name: Arild Kraakvoll  |  Country: Norway  |  k_arild@hotmail,com
I bought some of Davids LP,s back in the early 70ts, and I still listen to them on my MP3 playes when I am out walking.
Saturday, November 27th 2004
Entry 106
Name: Johannes  |  Country: Germany  |  zilkenslaw@t-online.de
Great site ! my compliments. I own a Vol. 2 disc since 1968 -which I bought during a summerschool course in London- which I am listening to frequently. Only today I became aware that DMcW did much more and really good things. It is a must that you circulate his memory webwide!
Thursday, November 25th 2004
Entry 105
Name: Bulent  |  Country: Turkey and now Spain  |  bulentes@yahoo.es
Thank you for that oficial WEB for David. I'm a 41 years old man who was listening to him when I was 23. After all these years I'm still listening to "The Days of Pearly Spencer". And during these years happened many things, but the beautiful voice of David and his songs didn't change and still live with us. I'm still crying when I feel these songs. Thank you.
Saturday, October 30th 2004
Entry 104
Name: Alan Carmichael  |  Country: Australia  |  alancarmichaeltop40@bigpond.com.au
" The Days Of Pearly Spencer" what a fafantastic song, great megaphone effect on the voice. It really is a shame when our artists pass on. I only found this website this afternoon. I often sit at my computer and check out how a performers career is progressing and I am astounded to see particulary in the US & UK as to how many groups and artists from the finest period of music 1950s-1970s are still performing. Late condolensces to David's family and thank you for a terrifice music memory David certainly in my top50 hit singles of the UK.
Saturday, October 30th 2004
Entry 103
Name: Paul Wallington  |  Country: England  |  paulwallington@yahoo.com
This is an excellent and professional website and is a credit to whoever made it and it is a credit to the memory of David Mcwilliams. I know very little about him, but my dad bought the original record of days of pearly spencer when i was about 6yrs old and he was forever playing it, not just at that time but through his life., i still have it. I have this record on CD and play it all the time, my dad died in 2002 but whenever i play the song it brings back so many happy memories i call it " dads song".
Thursday, October 28th 2004
Entry 102
Name: Neil Daly  |  Country: Australia  |  neildaly@bigpond.net.au
Watching that video of David singing The Days of Pearly Spencer brought back so many memories and feelings of me as a fifteen year old when it was first released in 1967. A song of deep humanity and compassion it never failed then, and even now, to make my heart swell and bring tears to my eyes. In a world that seems at times to be careering out of control, David's legacy renews my determination to hold onto those most important human values, love, wisdom and compassion. Thank you for the website and the opportunity to hear David again. Neil
Saturday, October 16th 2004
Entry 101
Name: George Adair  |  Country: N. Ireland  |  george.adair@daehwa.co.uk
So sad that the greastest song writer Ireland has ever had died so young. I lived beside David when he lived in the Rectory Estate in Ballymena. I sat in his house many times listening to him play and sing. I remember when he released For God and My Country my family received one of the first copies I still have it and would never part with it. I believe if it was released now it would be a big hit. Will always remember him and still try to sing his songs from time to time.
Wednesday, September 15th 2004
Entry 100
Name: George Walmsley  |  Country: Scotland  |  george.walmsley@halliburton.com
David is Sadly missed. He gave a lot of enjoyment to his audiences. It was wonderful to see " Days Of Pearly Spencer " at last get the recoginition it always deserved. I come originally from N'Ireland and heard David perform on quite a few occasions over the years and had the privilige of speaking to him about his music and experiences. I played drums with various groups in the L'Derry and Larne area before becoming a semi pro solo artist playing Guitar and singing. I knew the venues in the Ballymena very well. I loved playing songs written by David because of their local flavour and wonderful Lyrics. He was a true gift to music.
Monday, September 6th 2004
Entry 99
Name: Tony Meneses  |  Country: Brazil  |  tonygm@lineone.net
Thanks for providing this website. I would like to get the whole mp3 for THE DAYS OF PEARLY SPENCER. It is almost impossible to get it in Brazil. If you decide to send it I will give you an email where it can be sent to. Thanks. Tony
Thursday, August 26th 2004
Entry 98
Name: manfred  |  Country: germany  |  manfred.hollmann@gmx.de
I was very sad, when I got this message about davids death. We were sitting in our magic garden, listening to one of the fabolous album of all times. "When I was A Dancer" was one of the first album I had to promote for davids german record company "Crystal" in 1979. So I have a real and original whitelabel from this album and I´ m looking also for LPs or CDs to buy, because everybody who is listening to this great music wants to have it. As a musician david was far ahead of his times - so as Chris Rea too. And both great Artists at the same Record Company. And the crowd were not really interested in it. And the result: What a gladness is it today, when young people listen to "When I Was A Dancer" or "Circles" and they ask me: How about this great music? - 25 Years after. And I feel very young and looking back deeply greateful as a part of this wonderful time. All the best to you all and thank you David Manfred
Tuesday, August 10th 2004
Entry 97
Name: dani  |  Country: israel  |  dangali@zahav.net.il
last saturday 3 am in the morning i could not sleep, turned on the radio and days of pearly spencer came along. this song is one of those evergreens which will always make me glad to hear. now i have the liriks! thank you for this web site and may god have mercy on this gentle soul.
Sunday, August 8th 2004
Entry 96
Name: Margaret Sowter  |  Country: UK  |  n/a
David was my only son inlaw, he was a gentle and kind man and I loved him very much for himself and his music. I am sad that he was taken from so early - he has left a hole in mine and I would think everyones life.
Friday, August 6th 2004
Entry 95
Name: David Russ  |  Country: Australia  |  arcastudios@tpg.com.au
I think David's The Days of Pearly Spencer stands up well beside some of The Beatles finest songs from the same period. We've lost a fine artist in this man!
Tuesday, August 3rd 2004
Entry 94
Name: Luis F Cirilo  |  Country: Brazil  |  lfcirilo@lfcirilo.com
Long Live!!! Tks for you site
Sunday, August 1st 2004
Entry 93
Name: Cor Koehorst  |  Country: Holland  |  ca.koehorst@quicknet.nl
It was a real shock to me to learn that David passed away in 2002. It's because of this web site that I found out about it. From the moment he released his first Lp I've been a fan. I'm glad that there's more music from David than this LP. Those record people don't really know much about real talent. They only know about making money. Such a shame. Thank you for this very fine site.
Sunday, July 25th 2004
Entry 92
Name: hany  |  Country: middle east  |  vakiosvoice@hotmail.com
to a seroius collector and a fan of david mcwilliams, a rare hard to find pressing made in lebanon of david single [days of pearly spencer]pressed on sld label and comes in excellent condition.... i offer this single for sale for david lovers interested ....? please contact me
Sunday, July 18th 2004
Entry 91
Name: Kevin sowter  |  Country: england  |  bostin01@talk21.com
Hi!!............think the website is great! I've always been a fan of David's music. It started when my Dad (Bob, Gill's brother), used to sing us to sleep at night as kids with, 'She was a Lady'. Even now I reguarly listen to David, with albums/tapes knicked of my Dad. I think he (David not my Dad!), was one the most underrated artists of our time, and if many of his tracks were re-realeased now, they would be sure to be big hits!! Anyway thank you for this site!.......top one. Kev............xxxxxxxx(kisses for Gill and the girls!)
Monday, July 12th 2004
Entry 90
Name: Graham Sowter  |  Country: England  |  gsowter@tiscali.co.uk
It is with fondness I remember David who became a friend through his marriage to my sister Gil McWilliams and I am pleased to see the construction of this website in his memory. Thanks Graham
Thursday, July 8th 2004
Entry 89
Name: Billy Swann  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  whis4ey@yahoo.co.uk
So sad to hear that David has died I was fortunate to know him as a young boy when we played 'Subbuteo' table soccer together in Ballymena, just off the Toome Road Later I played with 'The Cossacks' just about the same time as David began writing his own songs I remember him and Jill in a little pub, just off Broughshane Street, where Thursdays (I think it was) became the place to go for some real folk music Jill is so right.... David was overtaken by the 'establishment' ....... a very good man with a massive talent that, in my opinion, surpasses that of some of the names mentioned in her comments I was priviliged to know, personally, a true talent Billy Swann Cossacks Showband
Saturday, July 3rd 2004
Entry 88
Name: Bob Sowter  |  Country: England  |  bob.sowter@btinternet.com
He was a gentle mild mannered man, with a musical and lyrical talent that most people only dream about. From the very first moment I met him, he always open his doors his mind and heart to me. David (My brother-inlaw)was a very generous man, Iam proud to tell everyone that I new him, 'The world will miss him!' P.S. What a pitty the music moguls could not open their minds to him!
Thursday, July 1st 2004
Entry 87
Name: Chris Ingram  |  Country: UK  |  kris.ingram@berlin.de
Glad to see the site is now up and running under it's new domain name. All the very best to you all!
Thursday, June 10th 2004
Entry 86
Name: Kev O'Carroll  |  Country: Scotland  |  kevoc@btopenworld.com
Excellent website...a long overdue tribute to one of musics great unsung heroes, now sadly no longer with us.
Saturday, May 15th 2004
Entry 85
Name: Pit  |  Country: Germany  |  uvollherbst@yahoo.de
Dear David, with hearing your songs, when i was a small boy, i decieded to become a musician. Now i am. Thanks for That. Where ever you are now - your music will live on and on and on !
Tuesday, May 4th 2004
Entry 84
Name: Diana Sullivan  |  Country: England  |  diana339@aol.com
I always remember David McWilliams music in the sixties, i loved it, i didnt know he died until i looked on this website i am sorry to hear it, i used to have some of his L.P's
Wednesday, April 21st 2004
Entry 83
Name: Christy  |  Country: London, UK  |  info@zenuk.com
Sjef, Great to see you've used the LP covers. Are the LP centre labels somewhere on the site? I've just (re)added a link to your site from the Zen one as that sites undergone a revamp of late. Hope all is well with you. Cheers Christy P.S. Did you use those lyrics - I'll have a look now. If there's others from the first 2 albums that you want me to go through, let me know.
Thursday, April 15th 2004
Entry 82
Name: Svend  |  Country: Denmark  |  crsoft@mail.dk
Very sorry to read that David has passed away!! I was a great fan of his music - still are - and his magnificient voice performing his unique songs. David will be missed! Regards Svend
Thursday, April 15th 2004
Entry 81
Name: Martin Kruegel  |  Country: Germany  |  clouddozer@t-online.de
Like many others, I only knew his songs "Days of Pearly Spencer" and "Walls of Cyrian" until quite recently I discovered a CD called "The days of David McWilliams". Incredibly intense, personal songs that really haunt you. Thank you for a good site about David, I´d only like to see more chords for some songs.
Saturday, April 3rd 2004
Entry 80
Name: Emilio Gamez Nicas  |  Country: Madrid - Spain
I knew Day's. whe i ived in Englans on '68 and I was 22, still thnk i's one of the most eautill song ever heard, and believe I hear it very often
Friday, March 19th 2004
Entry 79
Name: Mike Niblett  |  Country: Co Down,N Ireland  |  mchlniblett@aol.com
Hello, Just to say you have pleasant,dedicated site here.I met David quite a few times many years ago, when i played as a Showband/group musician.I would like to add a link from my band site,which includes a link page for 60's /70's and onwards music in Ireland, Mike.
Wednesday, March 10th 2004
Entry 78
Name: Deirdre Mueller  |  Country: Switzerland  |  didimueller@dplanet.ch
A very underrated musician, who never received the acclaim he so deserved has sadly died. I found this out by chance,while looking for CDs (rereleased albums, compilations etc.) on the net. As teenagers, my brother and I loved listening to David’s music and lyrics. You can imagine the quality of those first albums and my absolute delight in finding out about "The Reflections of.." and "The Days of David McWilliams." Happy memories!! David’s music will live on in our hearts. Thanks a million to all involved in keeping the music of this great talent alive.
Saturday, February 28th 2004
Entry 77
Name: david thompson  |  Country: england  |  dontjustsitthere
sorry to here of his death, i was unaware of any work of david's, other than pearly spencer, which i have sung to myself for years(long before marc almond made a hash of it) i will certainly make myself familiar with his other music,although belatedly.
Tuesday, February 10th 2004
Entry 76
Name: Scall  |  Country: Germany  |  scall@gmx.net
Great Stuff! I love McWilliams for years now and was shocked reading that he died. but i couldn´t figure out how. Can anybody help?
Monday, February 9th 2004
Entry 75
Name: Christian Thwaites  |  Country: USA  |  thwaiteschristian@sbcglobal.net
I first heard David McWilliams on an album I bought in 1976, the Starline collection. At the time, I was living in a miserable bedsit in London. Broke, alone and my mum just died - aged 17. I loved the songs, especially 'Can I get there by candlelight", Reflections and Turn Homeward Stranger. He seemed to speak with great understanding of people alone. I always kept the LP. I have it now. I am happy, fulfilled and living in the USA for 20 years. But your Dad's music made a young man happy and feeling that he was not alone. God's speed.
Saturday, February 7th 2004
Entry 74
Name: Stefano Magni  |  Country: Italy  |  nngidf@tin.it
For Josephine is one of the best songs I've ever heard.. I miss you so much... Stefano
Thursday, February 5th 2004
Entry 73
Name: Sandro Sposimo  |  Country: Italy
It was 1968 when I meet the girl that now is still my wife and the juke box was playing "Fiori nel vento" the italian version of Poverty Street.The italian lyrics is fantastic and I never forgot the words of "our" song. Only few weeks ago I found the original 45 record ,never used, and this is my Valentine for the love of my life.Thank you Dave for all the emotions that I feel everytime I listen to your music.
Thursday, February 5th 2004
Entry 72
Name: Ken Van Der Heyden  |  Country: Canada  |  kenheyden@hotmail.com
I am very sad to find out that david has passed away, His music will alway's be with us. rest in peace my friend.
Saturday, January 31st 2004
Entry 71
Name: Steve Pope  |  Country: Australia  |  epops@iprimus.com.au
I still listen to a tape I have had for over 20years, And I still love the music. I have searched for a while to find any information on David. But all I could find was Marc Almond. Now I find out that it is to late to say Thank you for the music I have enjoyed for so long. R I P
Monday, January 26th 2004
Entry 70
Name: Tony Hulme  |  Country: UK  |  tony_hulme@msn.com
Thank you so much for this site - I was half of a duo called Evensong. We shared the same management as David during the early 70s and toured/appeared together on several occasions.I loved his music and we shared a rather more serious approach to songwriting than was often the case.He once told me that "Love Like a Lady" was written as a result of a joke I told him - perhaps he was trying to encourage my own work, which wasn't pulling up any trees at the time! It was a real shock to learn some months ago that David had passed on. We hadn't met for years, but he wasn't the type of character you forget and I always felt that he would one day amaze the world.That he didn't says a lot about the values of the music business. Rest in peace.
Sunday, January 25th 2004
Entry 69
Name: Francisco Amaral  |  Country: Portugal  |  franciscoamaral@netcabo.pt
I've always love David music and lyrics. "Pearly Spencer" was very popular in Portugal in the 60's, but i'm still listening David McWilliams until today in many other songs. Throu all these years i make them heard on radio, where i still work. Sadly, i didn't know he was dead. You know, one like David nevers dies !
Saturday, January 24th 2004
Entry 68
Name: X  |  Country: North-Africa  |  @
David gave a homeless friend A song of golds and jewels blend No other put this way his mind And his heart into words Pearly started a complete unknown He's more popular than Lennon now Once you heard his lovely song You'll never be the same The days are getting sweeter Ahh..ahh... The race is almost run
Thursday, January 1st 2004
Entry 67
Name: egon herbig  |  Country: germany  |  egon.stefanie@t-online.de
Where can i buy circles, one of my favourite songs thank you
Sunday, December 21st 2003
Entry 66
Name: hany  |  Country: the middle east  |  vakiosvoice@hotmail.com
i am a christian record collector of the 50s 60s and 70s , recently i had a unique single of david mcwilliams pressed in lebanon on a label unique only to lebanon!! the single days of pearly spencer relaesed in lebanon on the societe libanise du disque[sld] in near ecxellent condition there is a tiny wrap appear only at the first few seconds of playing only and it does not effect the playing of the record at all... i thought this single must go to a david mcwilliams fan sothats why i thought of writting about it in this guest book first.. i am offering this ultra rare single for sale,and i welcome any serious offer ... feel free to contact me anytime... best wishes and maerry christmas ..
Tuesday, December 16th 2003
Entry 65
Name: Shane McGuckian  |  Country: Ireland  |  randalljwillingham@hotmail.com
A very comprehensive, informative and sensitive website. Well done.
Friday, December 12th 2003
Entry 64
Name: Gerard P. Riley  |  Country: Canada  |  gerlin@sprint.ca
I first heard David McWilliams on the pirate station Radio Caroline when I lived in the UK in the sixties.My mother was a big fan and it was her that badgered me into listening to his music. I never regretted it.He was unique.Anyway, as the years rolled by life moved along and every so often I would think of the sixties, Radio Caroline and David McWilliams. I always felt some kind of connection to his music and now, as a composer myself, even more so. The other day I was reminiscing and reading stories about Radio Caroline when his name came up again so I thought I would look up David McWilliams. I was very, very saddened to hear of his passing at such a young age. My belated condolences to all his family. As soon as I have finished here I will go to the piano and compose a piece in his memory. David McWilliams is now immortal, his music and his words make this so. Take care Gerard P. Riley
Wednesday, December 3rd 2003
Entry 63
Name: Trance  |  Country: NL
Great site , thanks
Friday, November 7th 2003
Entry 62
Name: Jaime Manca Graziadei  |  Country: USA-Italy  |  JAMGUSA@aol.com
For years I looked for his albums which had been stolen from me. I found one in Germany,used,a couple of years ago and I had a CD burned from it. It is one of the true treasures of my vast collection. Now that he is gone, his family, to whom I'm grateful, has had the CDs rereleased. It is so sad than only after he's left us we can again enjoy his visionary and delicate ballads. Thank you for this site, and thank you David, wherever you are, for your music. Jaime
Thursday, November 6th 2003
Entry 61
Name: Walter Husi  |  Country: Switzerland  |  walter.husi@econophone.ch
In the year of 1975, the first time in my life I`ve heard the music of David Mc Williams in a Music-Shop in a town in switzerland. I was very impressed by his warm voice and his beautiful songs. It was a pity that it was hard to find LPs and Singles of him in my country at this time. Now a few years later 6 CDs are available, that is a good fact. Maybe other CDs are follow next time. I hope the album "When I was a dancer" with one of his best songs "Circles" will available as a CD very soon. Finally I would say my compliment to Sjef Kolen for this excellent Website. I wish all the best for his friends and his family. Greetings from switzerland, Walter Husi
Wednesday, November 5th 2003
Entry 60
Name: Martin Tipper  |  Country: UK
I recently made a list of some of the music I've really enjoyed over the years. Some of David's work camt to mind, so I thought I'd see if there were any websites I could check out. I really didn't expect as good a one as this. It has everything I wanted to know, nicely designed and a joy to use.
Monday, November 3rd 2003
Entry 59
Name: Hans Kok  |  jthkok@hetnet.nl
Sjef, ik heb de site snel gevonden. Ziet er goed uit. Groeten, Hans
Monday, October 13th 2003
Entry 58
Name: JAMES MORRISON  |  Country: UK BATH SOMERSET  |  MORRISON506@AOL.COM
WOULD BE GRATEFUL IF ANYBODY COULD TELL ME WHERE I COULD PURCHASE THE FOLLOWING ALBUMSOR SEND ME A COPY IN ANY FORMAT THEN MY COLLECTION WOULD BE COMPLETE SO WOULD MY LIFE THANKS WORKIN FOR THE GOVERMENT SINGIN SONGS DONT DO IT FOR LOVE WHEN I WAS A DANCER WOUNDED I CAN BE CONTACTED AT MY EMAIL ADDRESS THANKS AGAIN JIM
Sunday, October 12th 2003
Entry 57
Name: Roger Hirst  |  Country: England  |  rhirst@ntlworld.com
Fantastic to find a web site in Tribute to David McWilliams. I have often looked for one and found very few references to David on the Web. I've had all is sixties albums since they were new also got the Dawn recordings but was unaware the albums after "Living's just a state of mind" It is a shame that it has taken his death to get these recent Cd's but very welcome to discover them anyway. Good web site, well done. Roger
Thursday, October 9th 2003
Entry 56
Name: Tom Wilkie  |  Country: North Wales  |  tfwilkie@lineone
Having heard one of David's tracks on a compilation album it brought memories of my teenage years in Dublin listening to David on Radio Caroline. His songs were a combination of beautifully evokative words and haunting melodies. Age has not dulled them one bit. So on a 'where is he now' search I came upon your excellent site. Althought saddened by the news of his death I was pleased to read that he was rewarded with a good family. His music is as fresh and relevant today as it ever was. THANK YOU DAVID FOR YOUR MUSIC and thank you for a lovely memorial to a great man. Tom
Thursday, October 2nd 2003
Entry 55
Name: Armin Raether  |  Country: Germany  |  singer@kalumet.de
thank you for this homepage I'm looking thince many month's for more informations, chords and lyrics of D. McWilliams - as a singer and songwriter by myself, he his one of my great favourits, specially "can I get there by candlelight" - if someone knows the chords for this song ?
Sunday, September 28th 2003
Entry 54
Name: Lisa Johnson  |  Country: England  |  msjohnson@willowbark.fsnet.co.uk
My respects to David McWilliams. He seems to have been an exceptional person, I hope to learn more about him through his music. Love to all the family. Lisa
Saturday, September 13th 2003
Entry 53
Name: Shannon Mcwilliams  |  Country: N. Ireland  |  sodsparky@hotmail.com
Hi, Shannon here, David's Son, just a quick note to say how good the website is. Also it's nice to see that a lot of people have left lovely messages, long may it continue!! Cheers Shannon
Tuesday, September 9th 2003
Entry 52
Name: niffoc  |  Country: france  |  niffoc@hotmail.com
I've just discovered the day of Pearly spencer, and i'm crazy about it, listening it in loop!! It's amazing to see all the perfect artists that lived in Ireland, I knew Thin Lizzy, and now David Mcwilliams!! but why aren't they much known?!!!! they're so good!! anyway, thank you fot this site, I enjoy visiting it! PS sorry for mistakes.... but it was funnier to draw in english lessons than to listen... and now it's hard to understand what he sings...damned
Tuesday, September 9th 2003
Entry 51
Name: Miguel Angel Villanueva  |  Country: Spain  |  cieloelectrico@mixmail.com
David's music has always been very dear to me. Through the years I've been gathering quite a lot of his recordings... and his voice and his melodies always lead me to a very warm and "familiar" place. He will always live inside many of us... through his music, through his stories...and through his feelings put into so many great songs. Songs that already are a part of us...in many different places!
Sunday, September 7th 2003
Entry 50
Name: Luigi Pizzorno  |  Country: Italy  |  luigipizzorno@libero.it
this is the best site about D Mc Williams...but I arrived here sercing for the " Poverty Street"-liryc and I don't find it...could you help me. Tanks Luigi Pizzorno from Genova/Italy
Thursday, August 28th 2003
Entry 49
Name: Adolfo  |  Country: España
The Days... una de mis canciones favoritas, de un gran cantautor David Mcwillians.
Wednesday, August 27th 2003
Entry 48
Name: JAMES MORRISON  |  Country: UK  |  MORRISON506@AOL.COM
GREAT SITE LOOKIN FOR THIS INFO FOR LONG TIME GOT MOST OF HIS ALBUMS BUT NOT THE CARMEL OR HOMESPUN RELEASES ALWAYS THOUGHT HE WAS GREAT SONGWRITER NEVER REALISED OTHER PEOPLE THOUGHT SAME MANY THANKS ITS A PEARL!SORRY FOR THE PUN.
Monday, August 25th 2003
Entry 47
Name: Ouncy  |  Country: Lebanon  |  Ouncy_Nassif@hotmail.com
Here's one from Lebanon, I'm a Lebanese guy, 30 years old. I'll never forget the song that touched me so when still a child, the days of Pearly Spencer. Thank you David for being what you were, even in such a faraway land, you're loved and appreciated. May your soul rest in Heaven. Ouncy
Monday, August 11th 2003
Entry 46
Name: cor van nispen  |  Country: netherlands  |  ufam@home.nl
i ve not been in europe for about one and a half years, and coming back here coming back to the availibbillity of the internet i was purely shocked by hearing that this absolute master of songs and lyrics (to me only comparable to leonard cohen) has died so young. I will grieff for a long time and remember him for the rest of my life. his music and lyrics will allways be part of me precious dreams will follow me forever time goes by i still remember you that makes it tough (buddy holly)
Friday, August 1st 2003
Entry 45
Name: Ted George  |  Country: England  |  tedgeorge@ntlworld.com
I was a big fan of David back in the Sixties, and bought what I thought were all the available LPs over a number of years. Hearing "Pearly" again on the radio recently, I decided to burn the songs from all my albums on to CDs. This proved to be a real labour of love, as it was great to hear all those beautiful songs again. Anyway, I sat at my PC this morning and started on the artwork for my new CDs and thought I'd look on the internet for any info on David, and came across this website. My first reaction was one of great sadness to learn that David had passed away, and I would like to convey my condolences to his family and friends. My overall reaction now that I have worked my way through the site is that it is a wonderfully comprehensive and fascinating tribute to a hugely under-rated talent. Never really granted the recognition he deserved in England, he was generally seen here as the third choice after Dylan and Donovan, but on listening again to those half-dozen LPs, the sheer quality of both lyrics and music shine through to rival anything done by those two. Congratulations to all those responsible for this website, and you've now set me on a mission to find as many of David's recordings as I can to complete my collection. If anybody out there can help, please get in touch.
Thursday, July 31st 2003
Entry 44
Name: alan healy  |  Country: ireland  |  alan.healy@oceanfree.net
happy to have found your website-saddened to hear of davids demise-we will miss him.
Saturday, July 26th 2003
Entry 43
Name: Gianpaolo  |  Country: Italy  |  pinkmoon@esedranet.com
Great website! If you need scans of the Italian single, please let me know, I'll send them. Ciao
Wednesday, July 16th 2003
Entry 42
Name: Hugh Girvin  |  Country: Canada  |  girvin@bmts.com
I remember listening to The Days of Pearly Spencer way back when I lived in Larne. David was definitely under rated as asinger,songwriter.
Wednesday, July 16th 2003
Entry 41
Name: Ton Kieboom  |  Country: Netherlands  |  ton.kieboom@freeler.nl
In the year 1969 I got acquainted with a guy who’s name was Sjef Kolen. He told me about the singer/songwriter David McWilliams and his music. I was impressed by the music and lyrics of David McWilliams and I started listening to his songs. The feeling that he was an extraordinary artist has never gone away. I bought his records and later on his CD’s. Days at Dawn is my latest. I was shocked when I read about his death. When I was searching for David McWilliams on the internet, I found this website made by Sjef Kolen. I want to thank Sjef for making David McWilliams part of my life and for making this wonderful website. It is now for sure that David McWilliams will not be forgotten.
Friday, July 11th 2003
Entry 40
Name: James McCartney  |  Country: uk  |  colemc@tiscali.co.uk
It's taken me a long time to find David on CD now I've found him. A great singer who will be missed.
Wednesday, July 9th 2003
Entry 39
Name: Nikos Arsenopoulos  |  Country: Greece  |  nikosarsenopoulos@hotmail.com
I think that the "Days of Pearly Spencer" is one of the most moving songs recorded ever. It's a masterpiece, and I think it's a shame that David never been so famous (even only for this song). I'd like to express my respect and admiration to a CLASSIC SONG WRITER that made me shiver and dump with his butifull words and music.
Wednesday, July 9th 2003
Entry 38
Name: denis obrien  |  Country: USA  |  odobber6@aol,com
Finally at last i have come across a web page dedicated to David McWilliams. I grew up in Ireland in the sixties and bought David's LP's . What a great musician. Its such a shame that he did not get full recognition as a talented singer/songwriter. Thank you for all the info on his life and career. Its a shame he is gone but i will always remember him when i play his songs. Thanks again denis obrien howell nj USA
Monday, June 23rd 2003
Entry 37
Name: Ellis Elias  |  Country: uk  |  pcproblems@lineone.net
I was a great fan of David's, very sad to discover he passed away. My thoughts are with his family.
Monday, June 9th 2003
Entry 36
Name: aris
good site, i ll never forget david :-)
Sunday, June 8th 2003
Entry 35
Name: Nelson Martins  |  Country: BRASIL  |  caravelle@ig.com.br
Um abraço David! trilha sonora da esquina da minha infância com a minha adolescência! Esteja com Deus man!
Sunday, June 8th 2003
Entry 34
Name: Joey
I also want to add that I recently seen another album of David's in a friends house so I made her put it on, I cant remember the name but I remember that in the middle of the book included it was two pages of cuttings form his family and loved ones, including his daughters. I also remember that one of the songs is called Hannah isn't home. Could someone please tell me what album that was from.
Friday, June 6th 2003
Entry 33
Name: Joey
I just wanted to say that i didn't know David's music very well. but the little that i did know i loved. he will always be remembered in our hearts.
Wednesday, June 4th 2003
Entry 32
Name: Pete McDonnell  |  Country: Wales  |  petermcd26@hotmail.com
At work today, someone was singing Days Of Pearly Spencer. We got talking about the song and I told the person, I knew Dave and remember him writing the song. It made me think of 'beat' as we used to call him, so tonight I thought I would check on the internet, to see if there was any news about him. I'm in tears as I am writing this, because I did not know he had passed away, I just can't believe it. The last time I saw him was when he was touring Britain, many years ago, we sat in a pub in Cardiff, 'beat' Big King and me, talking about Ballymena, the Flamingo, about being 'ripped off' from his royalties, who the Harlem Lady was, we drank some pints that night. Dave McWilliams, was a brilliant talent, I don't think he knew how good he was. He wrote beautiful songs. The first time we meet, after seeing him at the fourways, I went back to his house and reluctantly he let me read through some of his songs, not yet recorded, I can still remember them so clearly, some 36/7 years on, it was poetry at its best. I remember playing some demo songs over and over again, as he was playing cards in the other room, he kept shouting "turn them off", almost embaraced by his own brilliance. I could go on for hours. A beautiful man, a beautiful writer, great memories and I still have all his wonderful LP's, to to remind me of him. Thank you for being my friend, It was a priviledge to have known you.
Friday, May 23rd 2003
Entry 31
Name: Joan Litke  |  Country: Canada  |  jobert@mnsi.net
David was my cousin and is sadly missed by all his famiy and friends. He was a poet who wrote words that came from his very soul. May his music live on and on and on and on and on and
Sunday, May 18th 2003
Entry 30
Name: joe brennan  |  Country: scotland  |  joe@brennan.freeserve.co.uk
i have all of davids lps but am missing the lord of ofally is there any where i could get a copy....david was much underrated and will be greatly missed joe
Monday, May 12th 2003
Entry 29
Name: marco koomen  |  Country: nederland  |  marco@koomen-3.tmfweb.nl
the first song that i heard was the days of pearly spencer.I like david`s music very much.I have all his albums now except working for the gouverment.Who have that album?david`s last album bucket full of dreams is very good. michael robinson gave it to me.Michael thanks!!!
Friday, May 9th 2003
Entry 28
Name: fritz "presley" griepentrog  |  Country: germany  |  fritz.presley@gmx.de
Hi altogether, i need the complete lyrics of david's song "the stranger" - would somebody help me, please, cos i don't get all the words Ciao! Fritz www.kultband.de
Sunday, April 27th 2003
Entry 27
Name: Lia  |  Country: Israel  |  l_gala@hotmail.com
Finally a good website for a great great songwriter. I will never forgot the Days of Pearly Spencer.. Lia
Monday, April 21st 2003
Entry 26
Name: John Hebborn  |  Country: England  |  john@hebborn42.freeserve.co.uk
Thank you for this site it is the least Mr McWilliams deserves - I still do not understand why David was not a world wide star - I did not even know he had died - I didn't even know where he came from. Suffice to say the music lives on and is still very precious to me and my family. Regards John
Saturday, April 19th 2003
Entry 25
Name: Anne Waters  |  Country: England  |  anniew@shaddow42.fsnet.co.uk
I have just transferred my 2 old 60s David McWilliams albums David McWilliams and David McWilliams Vol 2 from vinyl to CD. It is wonderful to be able to hear them again. I have also purchased the recent album. It would be great if these songs could once again be given air time on radio 2. Maybe someone could persuade Terry Wogan?
Monday, April 7th 2003
Entry 24
Name: George Hebborn  |  Country: UK  |  hebborn@btinternet.com
Only found out today David was dead.really sad.remember him from the 60's. can not forget the sounds and songs, they haunt you through life. as good as anyone out there at the time, Donovan, Dylan, Van morrison, Cat Stevens. God Bless him. my regret i never met him.
Monday, March 31st 2003
Entry 23
Name: David Okeeffe  |  Country: England  |  daveokok@hotmail.com
Davids music was important to me as I was growing up.Loved "Lady Helen" and "Can I get there by Candlelight"....I hope I can! Condolences to his family,but I have a feeling that the teaching ,guidance ,love from a quiet and talented father will help with the sorrow and the memories will soothe the pain. Thank you for being a part of my life
Monday, March 31st 2003
Entry 22
Name: kp  |  Country: Finland
Hi all! Yesterday I heard first time Davids music. It was song: Days Of Pearly Spencer. I loved it very much!
Wednesday, March 26th 2003
Entry 21
Name: Akis  |  Country: Sweden  |  cwalballa@hotmail.com
Hi!! Ive been looking for info on david for a long time and i finally found this site.. I also just found out he was dead.. RIP David!! And webmaster thanx for this site!!
Saturday, March 22nd 2003
Entry 20
Name: William Coates  |  Country: Northern Ireland  |  wcoates56@msn.com
Thanks for setting up this website. It is great to have it as a memorial to David and his songs. Back in January, we had a memorial concert for David at the Errigle Inn, Belfast. Lots of David's family and friends were there, including his son and daughters. It is good to know that his work continues to be released on new compilations.
Friday, March 21st 2003
Entry 19
Name: hannah mcwilliams  |  Country: N Ireland  |  helen.divito@btinternet.com
hello Sjef. This is David's daughter, Hannah. Wow. This is a fantastic site. There's so many things I didn't even know myself!I wish daddy could see it. I know he would have loved it. thankyou.
Friday, March 14th 2003
Entry 18
Name: Tanya Peter  |  Country: Germany  |  Tanyape@aol.com
When I first heard "The Days of Pearly Spencer" I fell in love with this wonderful voice. I wanted to buy a CD with this song on it, but it was very difficult in Germany. Then the CD "The Days of David McWilliams" appeared and I bought it. I put the CD in my CD-Player and played it over and over again. If it was possible, I would travel back to the 60s and buy me more of his earlier LPs. I was sad when I heard about his death last year. My condolences to his family.
Thursday, March 13th 2003
Entry 17
Name: Milenko Aguilera  |  Country: Chile  |  kamlost@yahoo.cl
at last, at last, I foun this song "The day of pearly spencer". do you know how obtain the album with this song or the song, because in Chile I think that is very difficult. see you
Wednesday, March 12th 2003
Entry 16
Name: Tom Stevens  |  Country: England  |  tom.stevens@zoom.co.uk
Sadly underrated and realy missed. O for the days of Radio Caroline and "Pearly Spencer". Thanks for taking the time to create this website. Tom Stevens
Friday, March 7th 2003
Entry 15
Name: JOHN MATTHEWS  |  Country: WALES  |  JM2TAXI@AOL.COM
This is great work by Sjef. This new website contains lots of interesting information. Hopefully it will be added to. There are many recordings and demos that David made that have yet to see the light of day.I hope Sjef is able to compile a complete list of David`s recordings. If anyone has information perhaps they can share it.Perhaps one day some LIVE IN CONCERT material will appear. Those lucky enough to see David in concert know his talent was 5*
Thursday, March 6th 2003
Entry 14
Name: mark stratford  |  Country: uk  |  mark.rpm@ntlworld.com
great site , very informative and easy to use we are releasing a second volume of McWilliams recordings on RPM , called The Reflections of David McWilliams RPM 257. The comp will have the first single , more Major Minor tracks , 9 unreleased early 70's recordings from the Dawn period including unissued songs , late 70's EMI tracks and finishing with a couple of samples from his last albums released in the 80's . happy to print your site address in the booklet so people can check out more details .
Tuesday, March 4th 2003
Entry 13
Name: Don Mccondach  |  Country: Canada  |  mccondach@shaw.ca
I knew "days of Pearley Spencer from way back, then Radio Caroline played "by the lights of Cyrian" one day. I bought the album with it on and was moved by his poetic lyrics and the insight of his songs. I knew very little about him, and was saddened to find of his passing.
Sunday, February 23rd 2003
Entry 12
Name: Steve Gurian  |  Country: Canada  |  sgurian@hotmail.com
I was shocked to hear of David's death..I have four of his very early albums and i'd forgotten over the years just how good he was. I was going thru my LP's recently and came upon the four LP's. Now I want to get more of his material...he will be missed.
Tuesday, February 4th 2003
Entry 11
Name: Cor van den Maagdenberg  |  Country: The Netherlands  |  c.v.d.maagdenberg@hccnet.nl
First of all I would like to express my sincere condolences to David's family. I realize it's far too late, but I didn't know, until just recently. Great to, finally, have this wonderful website (thanks a lot, Sjef!). I'm sure we all agree that this “tribute site” is long overdue. But…better late than never! I've been collecting David's music ever since his very first LP "Singing Songs By....", back in 1967. I remember going by motorbike to Amsterdam, to buy the LP "David McWilliams" on Major Minor MMLP 10 (they only had the mono version, you know). To my surprise, they had the LP "Singing songs by..." on Major Minor MMLP 2 in their shop-window, as well. I bought them both at the same time, of course. When I got back home, I played both albums over and over again. Listening to these albums in 2003 is still a great joy! It's a pity that the first album's never been released in true stereo. Perhaps it wasn't recorded in true stereo, in spite of the fact that there seems to be a number SMLP 2, which suggests a stereo version. Several songs from this album have been released on CD, also in mono. Always thought I had never missed any of David's releases, but I know better now. Thanks to the website I found out that I've overlooked the B-sides of some Singles. I've been able to add two of them to my collection, just recently. I expect that finding a copy of the 1987 Single "Working for the government"/"Listen to the heart", would be much more difficult. Let alone the Italian records! Why I have overlooked the release of the Album "Working for the government" on Outlet Records CHDL801, in the late eighties, will always remain a mystery to me. A different story is the "private release" of the "Bucket full of dreams" CD. Back in 1992, I was lucky enough to receive a cassette with five demos of songs that later would appear on this above-mentioned CD. Although the sound-quality leaves something to desire, I'm glad to have those five songs. It would be quite nice if some Record Company will make the re-release of the entire CD as well as the release on CD of the LP "Working for the government", possible and…let's hope we can all find more David McWilliams originals through this site, to make our record collection more complete. David McWilliams: he will be missed. May he rest in peace. Cor
Friday, January 31st 2003
Entry 10
Name: Tony  |  osheatony@hotmail.com
Great Web Pages - interesting to get the full story DMCW, he was a real wordsmith - my favourite piece of music by him is Harlem Lady
Saturday, January 18th 2003
Entry 9
Name: Henry Dingley  |  henry_dingley@hotmail.com
At long last I find information on David. It is really wonderful to see what you have done. Splendid and thanks VERY much. Through my CD shop in Holland there were no CD's available now thanks to you I have a list to confront him with as I want them all!!! I read about his performance in Bar "Candlelight" Hilversum (late 70's) the day after he performed and still wonder what I realy missed! I think everyone in Holland knows the song "Candlelight" as it is still used every week for a Radio programme, sadly his name and other songs were not well known as they should be. I have a single CD of David singing Candlelight as a duet with a dutch lady though not on your list. His picture seemed fairly recent. My condolences to his children for this great loss. Henry.
Friday, January 17th 2003
Entry 8
Name: Roger Smith  |  rsmikth24_uk@yahoo.co.uk
Thank you for providing this tribute to one of the truely outstanding artists of our time.His music has such great depth and yet is so easy to listen to, wonderful words telling stories and magical arrangements. It is so sad that we were not blessed with more of this amazingly talented artist. He will never be forgotten.
Thursday, January 16th 2003
Entry 7
Name: Santi  |  zimmy_61@hotmail.com
Hi! I'm a Spanish Boy who like very much david's music.I think he is one of the most singer/songwriter in the history ,his work is a autentic masterpiece
Saturday, January 11th 2003
Entry 6
Name: Gar O`Donnell  |  joetomrud@ireland.com
Great to see this site - I found it through Google as it does not seem to show up on other search engines. I had no idea David had made so much music - many gaps in my collection. I have the four CDs mentioned,plus a Dutch EMI four track CD single,issued in 1992 about the time the poisoned dwarf Marc Almond had the hit with Days... Are there any plans to compile some more,late period material on CD? I would very much look forward to hearing it. I will check back here often,and hope for news of more CD releases. Best wishes, Gar.
Friday, January 10th 2003
Entry 5
Name: Conn Russell  |  rus167@hotmail.com
Knew David well. I`m from ballycastle, and my parents were good freinds with him for many years. My sister and Hannah are still best freinds. David used to change the strings on my guitar and tune it, before I learnt to myself. He and Henry McCullough played a concert arranged by my parents for my wedding at our house in Ballycastle. Sadly missed - a most understated talent.
Thursday, January 2nd 2003
Entry 4
Name: Tonio Q.  |  qntlt@aol.com
Salut! J'en fais partie aussi, des fans de David. Figurez vous que je ne savais pas qu'il était decédé. Dans les années 70 je possédais tous ses disques que j'ai preté à des copains... qui ne me les ont jamais rendus. Je cherche desespérement in the early hours of the morning. Pas moyen de trouver... Thanks for the site.
Thursday, December 26th 2002
Entry 3
Name: Bob Johnstone-Ayliffe  |  varsim@hotmail.com
I remember clearly, whilst on holiday on the Norfolk Broads in 1967, listening to the plugging of David McWilliams and the playing of Pearly Spencer - which was my favourite. A sad loss to the music business.
Tuesday, December 17th 2002
Entry 2
Name: Chris  |  mail@zenuk.com
Great to see Sjef getting this site going, no more than David deserves. I love all his late 60s work, it shows he was alot more than just Pearly Spencer. I hope I can get along to the show on the 3rd of Jan and maybe take part.
Monday, December 2nd 2002
Entry 1
Name: Helen McWilliams  |  helen.divito@btinternet.com
Hi Sjef great to see you got it up and running. I thought I'd start you off and congratulate you on your great work.
Sunday, December 1st 2002