Lauwe, Belgium

February 09, 1940

As a cabaret performer, writer, poet, philosopher, sculptor, and painter, traditional Belgian folksinger Willem Vermandere prefers to think of himself as an artist more than a musician. Born in Lauwe in 1940, he first started teaching religious studies before his blend of humorous and socially conscious songs about everyday life made him one of the most popular figures on the '60s West Flemish scene. Accompanied by regular backing musicians Freddy Desmedt (flute/clarinet) and Pol Depoorter (guitar/mandolin), Vermandere has continued to tour ever since, and in 2011 celebrated his 70th birthday with the release of Alles Gaat Over. ~ Jon O'Brien