Wesley Willis, an unlikely rock star
Willis has been described as the most unlikely rock star, personally I would describe him as one of the greatest, and certainly the most honest.
Most of his fans, myself included, was introduced to his music through the song Rock n Roll McDonalds — either thru Morgan Spurlock’s 2004 documentary Super Size Me, or later due to how bizarre the song seemed, especially without the context of knowing who Willis was.
His musical career allegedly started when he, at a thrift store came across a keyboard for 50 cents, which he purchased for the simple fact that he enjoyed the looks of it.
Willis’ life was colored by his struggle with severe mental health issues, which as so often is the case, also meant he would also have to struggle with homelessness. He also has issues with his weight, which he was clearly ashamed of, as shown in the song I’m Sorry that I got Fat — which once you’ve heard puts an entirely new light on the otherwise often comically perceived Rock n Roll McDonalds.
For me, the real reason that I love his music, is that it, combined with his graphical art, feels like an invitation. An invitation to see the world, unfiltered and honest, the way Willis saw it — and that is a truly beautiful thing. His music fills my soul with creative power, such as that which encouraged me to write this article.
Sadly, Willis left this life on the 21th of August 2003, at the age of 40. While his life was short and he never lived to see the fame that came with Super Size Me, he did leave a legacy that won’t go away any time soon. Rest in Power.
Rock over London, rock on Chicago — Rock n Roll will never die!!
