"Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now)" was written in 1924 by Milton Ager (music) and Jack Yellen (lyrics). Accompanied by Rube Bloom, it became a vocal hit for Margaret Young. The song has a long recording history - but most know Van Halen's version from their 1982 album, "Diver Down." Their version features Jan Van Halen, father of Eddie and Alex, playing the clarinet.
Van Halen (1982)
