Clarence Williams (October 8, 1893 – November 6, 1965) was a pivotal figure in the evolution of early American jazz. An African-American jazz pianist, composer, promoter, vocalist, theatrical producer, and music publisher, he straddled the worlds of music and business with remarkable dexterity. Born in Plaquemine, Louisiana, Williams is said to have run away from home as a teenager to join a minstrel show, thereby setting the stage for a career marked by innovation and influence. He moved to New Orleans, immersing himself in the bubbling melting pot of jazz, and eventually made his way to Chicago and then New York City, where he solidified his presence in the music scene.

Throughout his career, Williams collaborated with a veritable who's who of jazz, including legends like Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Bessie Smith. His ability to compose, perform, and promote made him a mainstay in the burgeoning jazz culture of the early 20th century. Not just content with performance, he also founded several publishing businesses that helped spread the jazz idiom. Williams is credited with writing hundreds of songs, many of which have become staples in the jazz repertoire. His work often contained a poignant blend of the exuberant and the melancholic, which can be heard in collections such as "Livin' High: Original Recordings 1926 - 1930". He was also involved in multiple recording sessions throughout the twenties that have been pivotal in the preservation and appreciation of early jazz styles, enriching the cultural tapestry of America with songs like "Senegalese Stomp". Clarence Williams's legacy is a testament to his talent, ingenuity, and the indomitable spirit of jazz.

Genres

Boogie-woogie

New Orleans Jazz

Latest Release

The Piano King from Queens

Clarence Williams

Album - 11 Tracks - Released January 26, 2024