Willie Nile (1980) is the self-titled debut album by the New York singer/songwriter of the same name. Released by Arista Records in early 1980 to critical praise,The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll pg. 697-698 it was produced and engineered by Roy Halee and featured Jay Dee Daugherty, formerly with Patti Smith, on drums. The album immediately created a buzz among critics and quickly drew the attention of other rock stars such as Pete Townshend and the Who, who invited Nile to join them on their Summer of 1980 US tour. "That's the Reason" is heard during the end credits of the 1981 film Private Lessons.
Critical reception
Los Angeles Times pop music critic Robert Hilburn described the album as "the kind of rare collection that reawakens you to the inspiring qualities of rock'n'roll". With London Calling by the Clash, the album was voted record of the year for 1980 by Stereo Review magazine. Music critic David Okamoto wrote "his self-titled debut remains one of the most thrilling post-Byrds folk-rock albums of all time".MusicHound Rock: The Essential Album Guide. Dave Okamoto, 1999, pg. 814-815. Uncut: "Every song spins superb hooks with a Buddy Holly flair".
Track listing All songs written by Willie Nile.
Personnel Willie Nile – Electric and Acoustic guitar, piano, vocals Clay Barnes – Electric Guitar, background vocals Peter Hoffman – Electric Guitar Tom Ethridge – Bass Jay Dee Daugherty – Drums, Percussion Mark Johnson – Background vocals
Production Producers: Roy Halee Engineering: Roy Halee Remixing: Phil Jamtaas, Record Plant, Los Angeles Mastering: Greg Calbi, Sterling Sound, New York, NY Cover photo: Christine Olympia Rodin Photography: John Noonan, Ron Kellum Art Direction: Ron Kellum
Charts Chart (1980) Peak position
References