The rock and roll superstar, true name Charles William Harris, died on Thursday, according to his widow.
Other musicians, including John Lennon and Paul McCartney of the Beatles, were said to have been inspired by the music star. Paul even included Willie in his memoirs, recalling waiting outside the Liverpool Empire for his signature.
Willie became renowned and liked for his vivid pink hair and aggressive stage and television appearances, earning him the moniker “Britain’s wild man of rock and roll.” He was also known as Wee Willie Harris owing to his tiny size of 5 feet 2 inches.
He also collaborated with a number of artists, including Dusty Springfield, who first did background vocals for him before starting her own music career.
His wife of 47 years, Shelia, told The Sun: “He was a lovely man. A lovely husband. But it was music all the way with him.
“He was just such a brilliant man. He inspired so many – including Paul McCartney.
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“He was an absolute sensation. He will be so, so missed by so many. He could still sing right up until the end and was always a perfect gentleman.”
Willie’s former bandmate Tony Thorpe also paid tribute to his pal and fellow musician, as he added: “Willie was a brother, father, teacher, therapist and friend to me and I miss him dreadfully. God bless you, guv, as I’m sure he is doing.”
Willie was a regular face on the music circuit in the 1950s and became known for his unrelenting energy on stage and wild performances.
A critic wrote at the time: “He gyrates like an exploding Catherine wheel, emitting growls, squeals and what sounds like severe hiccupping.”
Willie also performed with music stars including Dusty Springfield, with representatives of the legendary singer also paying tribute.
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A statement read: “Sorry to hear of the death of Wee Will Harris on April 27.
“Back in 1966 Wee Willie recorded this song and had the best backing vocals ever, Dusty and Madeline.
“He came to Dusty Day in 2013 and entertained us with his stories and songs.”
Fans of the star have also shared their shock at his death, and well wishes for his wife Sheila.
One fan wrote: “Sad news that Wee Willie Harris has died. Along with Screamin’ Lord Such they were the original Wild Men of Rock’n’Roll. My love and thoughts are with you Sheila.”
Another added: “We were so sad to hear that our mate Wee Willie Harris has passed away. He’d tell us wonderful stories about the birth of British Rock n Roll & his part at the heart of it all…he’d often sing us a tune too…Still had a great voice! Hats off to you Willie, so glad to know you.”
“Take your mum to Paris, lighting up a chalice, Wee Willie Harris…RIP,” said a third.
Another wrote: “A very sad day today. Wee Willie Harris sadly passed away in his sleep early hours of this morning at the age of 90.
“Willie was a very funny outrageous man who loved a laugh. A sad loss to music, rock and roll.”
