| Bill Tapia |
|---|
 |
Born on New Year's Day, 1908, Bill "Tappy" Tapia is a diminutive, stylish man with a thick Hawai'ian Pidgin accent, an iridescent smile, and a flamboyant wardrobe. He radiates charisma on stage and off. Out of his mouth comes one playfully naughty expression after another, charming everyone around. When he performs his eyes light up. His virtuoso playing and the contagious joy in his singing are mesmerizing. Like many artists, Bill is stubborn, self-absorbed, and overly demanding of those around him, but his passion for music and lust for life make people immediately fall in love with him.
Tapia's 86-year career includes jams with long-gone pioneers of American music, including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday and Fats Waller. Tapia takes his rightful place alongside these greats. He retains a sharp improvisational skill and capable instrumental ability. Bill Tapia Web site "To You Sweetheart, Aloha" Documentary |