His Beat Goes On Burlington remembers Andy “A-Dog” Williams
A
ndy “A-Dog” Williams, 38, passed away on December 26 following a yearlong battle with leukemia. Most locals knew A-Dog as the area’s preeminent turntablist, a phenomenally gifted DJ who was also successful beyond Vermont’s borders. He was a fixture in DJ booths around the state, his appearances ranging from holding weekly residencies at Red Square in Burlington to rocking massive parties with nationally touring DJs for the likes of Burton Snowboards and Gravis. Besides being a mainstay of the music scene, Williams was one of Burlington’s most beloved sons, as evidenced by the candlelight walk and vigil held in his honor a few days after his passing. More than 1,000 people turned out on that chilly December night to celebrate his life.
By Da n B o l l es
The procession began on the top block of Church Street and meandered down Main Street. It held up traffic as people from all walks of BTV life, most clutching flickering candles, made their way to the waterfront skate park, one of Williams’ haunts. There, participants shared stories and laughter and tears. (For more on the vigil, turn to this week’s Soundbites column on page 57.) As an artist, a performer and, most importantly, a friend, Williams made an impact on Burlington that few can claim. How many of us will ever have, by proclamation of the mayor, our own day of tribute? Williams will, on August 30, 2014. To celebrate his short but brilliant life, Seven Days reached out to some of those lucky enough to have called Williams a friend. What follow are their remembrances. (See also his obituary on page 20.)
Rest in peace, A-Dog.