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Mink DeVille was a US R&B and rock & roll band active from 1974 to 1986, fronted by Willy DeVille, who was originally named Billy Borsey. The band began its journey in San Francisco, performing in gay leather bars under the name "Billy de Sade and the Marquis." In 1975, they changed their name to Mink DeVille and became one of the house bands at the iconic New York club CBGB, which was known as the epicenter of the punk scene. Despite being associated with the punk and new wave underground, Mink DeVille's music was rooted in R&B, blues, and 60's classic pop, infused with streetwise attitudes and romanticism. Their sound drew comparisons to early songs by Bruce Springsteen and other artists, incorporating elements of Hispano, New Orleans, and Zydeco music. The band was discovered by a record label in 1977 and released three albums under their guidance. Their fresh take on R&B and rock caught the attention of legendary producer Jack Nitzsche, who played a significant role in shaping their sound. Songwriting legend Doc Pomus also took notice of the band and offered to collaborate with Willy DeVille. Despite receiving critical acclaim and praise for DeVille's songwriting, Mink DeVille did not achieve significant success in the US but found a dedicated audience in Europe. After the first two albums, Willy DeVille disbanded the original lineup and began selecting musicians for recording and
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