(June 1, 2025) Morris Day of The Time broke the sad news on social media today, that the “Godfather of the Minneapolis Sound, Pepé Willie, has died at age 76. Willie may not be a household name, but his fingerprints are all over the Minneapolis sound that revolutionized funk and R&B in the late 1970s and early ’80s. As a producer, mentor, and early champion of a young Prince, Willie played a pivotal role in launching one of the most significant musical movements of the 20th century.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Willie had a strong musical pedigree. He was once married to Shauntel Manderville, the niece of R&B legend Little Anthony, and he briefly worked with Little Anthony and the Imperials. But it was Willie’s move to Minneapolis in the early 1970s that would shape his legacy. Seeing the immense local talent, he formed the band 94 East in 1975—a studio-driven project that would become Prince’s first professional recording home. Willie not only co-wrote material for the group but gave the teenage Prince his first shot at studio recording, placing him on guitar and backing vocals.
Though 94 East never had a breakout hit during its brief existence, releases like 94 East Featuring Prince and Symbolic Beginning have become prized by collectors for capturing Prince’s earliest sessions on record.
Willie continued producing music and remained active in the industry, often appearing at panels and events discussing his work with Prince and the Minneapolis sound. Throughout his career, he was known for his eye for talent and his role as a musical connector.
While he never chased the spotlight himself, Pepé Willie helped spark a musical revolution by believing in an unknown kid from North Minneapolis. His impact, though often behind the scenes, remains an essential chapter in soul and funk history.
