When family and fans were struggling to raise the money several years ago, Albie told the ECHO: "The Beatles have been great for this city, but we have done a lot to recognise their many achievements. Billy Fury is in danger of becoming a bit of an unsung hero."
No longer. While Albie - who found fame, himself, in the 1960s as Jason Eddie - continues to spread the word at every Billy Fury tribute night. And none will be more special than The Official Billy Fury Concert, being held at the Philharmonic Hall next Saturday night - just a few hours after the statue is unveiled.
As well as Albie, who will be singing a tribute set of Billy's songs, the line-up will include Colin Paul and The Persuaders, Tommy Bruce, and Wee Willie Harris.
Jean Wycherley is the guest of honour, while a new Billy Fury double CD, which features his last concert, together with other unreleased rarities and demos, will be on sale.
"It's now 20 years since Billy died, but his music is still so popular," says Albie.
Billy also starred in films, making his big screen debut in Michael Winner's 1962 movie Play It Cool. His next, I've Gotta Horse, co-starred Amanda Barrie and Jon Pertwee.
The singer, however, was plagued by ill-health. He suffered from rheumatic fever at the age of six, which led to a weakening of his heart valves and, ultimately, his early death.
He underwent open heart surgery in 1972 and 1976, but he died suddenly, of a heart attack on January 28, 1983. He was just 42.
His mum still lives in the Mossley Hill family home which was bought by Billy. The house is called Wondrous Place - after Billy's 1960 hit, which was one of his favourite songs.
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