Southern Politician

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Southern Politician" by Willy DeVille from his 1987 album Miracle, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its soulful, satirical edge. This track, a standout on the album, is a lyrical jab at political hypocrisy, delivered with DeVille’s raw, romantic vocal style and layered over Mark Knopfler’s jagged, distinctive guitar riffs. According to a 2022 article from Rock and Roll Globe, the song’s spoken-sung delivery and social commentary make it an outlier on Miracle, showcasing DeVille’s ability to weave sharp storytelling with a bluesy, roots-rock groove. Knopfler, who produced the album, brought a polished yet gritty sound that amplified DeVille’s New York swagger, though some fans on the Willy DeVille International Fans Facebook group note that the song’s 80s production can feel heavy-handed compared to his rawer Mink DeVille days.

In a 2006 interview with Leap In The Dark, DeVille shared that the collaboration for Miracle came about thanks to Knopfler’s wife, Lourdes, who suggested the pairing because Knopfler admired DeVille’s voice but played guitar in a way DeVille couldn’t. This synergy gave "Southern Politician" its unique texture, blending DeVille’s streetwise lyricism with Knopfler’s Dire Straits finesse. Fans on X have called the track a “hidden gem,” praising its biting lyrics about corrupt power, with one post from 2023 describing it as “Willy’s middle finger to slick-talking suits.” The Willy DeVille International Fans blog also highlights how the song’s live performances in Europe, where DeVille was a cult hero, often stretched into extended jams, letting his charisma shine.

Willy DeVille, born William Paul Borsey Jr. in Stamford, Connecticut, on August 25, 1950, kicked off his musical journey as a teenager obsessed with blues, R&B, and rock ‘n’ roll. Dropping out of high school at 14, he headed to New York City, as noted in his Guardian obituary, working odd jobs while soaking up the sounds of local blues and folk clubs. By the early 1970s, he was in San Francisco, fronting a band called Billy de Sade and the Marquis, but it was back in New York where he found his groove. In 1974, he formed Mink DeVille, blending Latin rhythms, doo-wop, and soul into a sound that stood out amid the punk chaos of CBGB, where they became a house band. Producer Jack Nitzsche, who called DeVille the best singer he’d ever worked with, helped craft their debut album, Cabretta, which included the hit “Spanish Stroll.” DeVille’s early career was marked by his chameleon-like ability to channel influences from Muddy Waters to Ben E. King, setting the stage for his eclectic solo work like Miracle.

Though DeVille passed away in 2009, his legacy lives on through fan communities and online platforms. His official website, willydevillemusic.com, offers a deep dive into his discography and life, while the Willy DeVille Official Facebook page shares rare photos and updates on tribute events. On Instagram, the official account posts nostalgic clips and album art, keeping his music alive for new listeners. The Willy DeVille Fans X account is a hub for fans sharing memories and rare live recordings. For deeper fan engagement, the Willy DeVille International Fans Facebook group connects Zoo Freaks with devotees worldwide, discussing everything from his New Orleans-inspired albums to his iconic live shows. The Willy DeVille International Fans blog also keeps the flame burning with news on tribute concerts and documentary screenings, ensuring DeVille’s soulful sound continues to resonate.