This gentle man has now joined his longtime friend and singer Delton McCall in the Heavenly Choir of Vocal Group Harmony.
Billy was first tenor, second tenor, baritone in the Castelles which provided Philadelphia with one of the best early vocal groups in the genre. Billy lent his magnificent voice to the Dreams, Modern Red Caps, Cobras, Spaniels, Billy Ward's Dominos and the last incarnation of the Orioles (Sonny Til, Gerald Gregory, Delton McCall & Billy Taylor) to name a few.
One of his favorites was this gem "Write And Tell Me Why" (Click Here To Download). Amongst his favorites with the Castelles was Marcella which he performed at UGHA with George Grant.
His last public performance was at Mark Del Costellos' Black Swan Concert on October 4, 2008 at which time he sang on Marcella, Over A Cup of Coffee, They Call Me Dreamer and he did the lead on Wonder Why. Performing was the energy of life for Billy - he loved every moment of it and always gave his all.
He was a superb, dapper dresser and always a joy to be around!
Billy was a very humble individual yet a giant in many respects of this phenominal sphere of music. He was quite surprised that Gerald Gregory wrote about Billy's entry into the Spaniels during Pookie's hiatus from the group - this story appreared in the book "Goodnight Sweetheart, Goodnight : The Story of the Spaniels by Richard G. Carter He was a life-long friend to both Pookie and Gerald Gregory - they all had many adventures together. I'm quite sure that both Pookie and Gerald appreciate the strong prescence of Billy Taylor being in their midst once again.
I was informed today by Val Shively that in his recent discussions with Bobby Thomas of the Orioles that Bobby was going to reform a new Orioles group and staff them with some of the incredible talent in the Philly area. His number one choice was to have been Mr. Billy Taylor!
Billy's talent and grace was sought up to the very end of his visit here on this plane - his many wonderful stories of this music & groups, his sincere laughter and simple dignity have had a profound effect on my life. I am far richer individual for having known such a wellspring of talent & ability whom I was able to call friend - GOD Bless & Rest Your Soul - Be Ever At Peace Billy!
A Humble Admirer,
Frank Chille
Hello:My name is Diana Taylor I am Billy's baby daughter,I remember the first time that I saw MY DAD!! sing it was on the steel peir show 1964 LA LA LA I am his "SWEETIE PIE" and yes he did"LEAVE ME CRYING IN THE CHAPEL"I miss him SOOOOO MUCH!!!! I LOVE YOU DAD! R I P YOU ARE ALWAYS IN MY HEART!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi DAD Ithas been 1 year since left. I have had a very hard time dealing with your how Jackie and Ann trashed your precious memory. Just to let you know I fought to the end and you can always be proud of your"BABY DAUGHTER" r.i.p. RIP UP THE HEAVENS, with all or your talent!!!!!! Take care of US from above. ETERNALLY YOURS GONE NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!!! I LOVE YOU & YOU KNOW IT TOO....
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