Why Andy Williams Continues To Inspire New Artists
When we go back to the era of fifties to seventies jukebox, a couple of names like Johnnie Ray and Mama Cass inevitably come to mind. Yet, among these legends, Andy Williams stands out with his unforgettable voice and captivating presence.
In fact, countless performers of today have found resonance with his style and lyrical wisdom.
For instance, artists like Michael Buble and Josh Groban, with their soft and smooth voices, have often credited Williams as an influence. Their music oozes with the same kind of soulful resonance and timeless allure that Williams was known for.
This article explores the musical wizardry of Andy Williams – how his timeless music, personal stories and continuous relevance influence and inspire new generations.
Reason #1: He made timeless music.
Among the reasons Andy Williams’ music has stood the test of time is certainly his impeccable vocal prowess. With a texture as smooth as velvet, Williams’s voice has that alluring quality that captivates listeners even today.
A vocal range encompassing both low, resonant depths and soaring, sonorous highs, Williams was a master at expressing emotion through song, making those musical notes not just heard but felt.
And who could forget the tunes Williams gave us? Tracks like ‘Moon river’, ‘Can’t get used to losing you’ and ‘Music to watch girls by’ have a timeless quality that keeps them from fading into obscurity.
His chart-topping songs stay evergreen and eternal, enduring anything and everything thrown their way by the sands of time. Their appeal, just like Williams’ voice, cuts across generations, enticing listeners old and new.
Reason #2: He sang a variety of styles.
Williams was not afraid to step outside his comfort zone. His musical versatility has sparked inspiration among a multitude of artists across different genres. His ability to experiment and successfully blend various musical styles has proven to captivate and engage diverse audience profiles.
His willingness to experiment proved instrumental in his sustained success. His musical journey taught us three key lessons:
- Never be afraid to experiment: Williams’ occasional forays into rock and even funk, no doubt raised some eyebrows but also demonstrated that he was not confined or defined by a single genre.
- Relevance is key: By dabbling in different genres, Williams ensured his music remained relevant, appealing to both old and new fans alike.
- Authenticity matters: Despite his genre-hopping, Williams’ unique voice and distinct style never wavered. He proved that true originality lies in finding one’s voice and sticking to it, regardless of the genre.
These lessons from his musical explorations continue to echo in the music industry today. From artists trying new genres to those staying core to their original sound while experimenting with different beats, the ripple effect of Williams’ musical variety is still very evident in today’s music scene.
Andy Williams, without a doubt, crafted timeless music. But it wasn’t just his phenomenal voice or his enduring hits that have made his work endure.
Reason #3: His personal stories remain captivating.
Andy Williams’s life is a tale of courage, determination and resilience. His journey, filled with significant challenges and remarkable triumphs, has been a strong source of inspiration for numerous artists throughout the years.
Williams began his career as a young artist alongside his brothers, forming the Williams Brothers quartet. Their father, Jay, traded the boys’ singing for essentials. Despite facing financial struggles and the tragic loss of a younger sibling, their talent was undeniable.
The Williams Brothers gained recognition by performing on radio stations and eventually backing Bing Crosby on the Oscar-winning ‘Swinging on a star’. However, their progress halted during World War II when Andy’s brothers served in the military. Post-war, the group reassembled and collaborated with Kay Thompson, leading to a successful nightclub act that became the talk of Hollywood.
Kay Thompson played a significant role in Andy’s early career, though their professional and personal relationship was complicated. She helped Andy craft a solo act, but he struggled initially. His big break came when he became the resident singer for Steve Allen’s Tonight Show in 1954, leading to a record deal with Cadence Records.
Andy Williams eventually established the Moon River Theatre in Branson, Missouri, where he performed until his death from bladder cancer on September 25, 2012. His legacy includes a vast catalogue of music, memorable television moments and a deep impact on the entertainment industry.
Admiration for Williams isn’t limited to his music alone. It transcends into respect for his personal journey, portraying him as a figure of resilience and courage.
Through robust storytelling and intricate interpretations of Williams’s life and work, artists have managed to develop their own style while staying true to their emotional connection with Williams. This shows the profound impact he had not just as an artist but as a person who overcame significant obstacles on his path to success.
Key Points to Remember
Andy Williams continues to inspire new artists through his timeless music, versatility and compelling personal stories. Here are the key reasons why his legacy endures:
- Timeless music: Williams’ impeccable vocal prowess and memorable songs like ‘Moon river’, ‘Can’t get used to losing you’ and ‘Music to watch girls by’ have a timeless quality that resonates across generations.
- Musical versatility: Williams was not afraid to experiment with different genres, from pop to rock to funk. His ability to adapt and blend various musical styles has inspired countless artists to explore and innovate in their own music.
- Personal resilience: Williams’ life story, marked by significant challenges and remarkable triumphs, is a testament to his courage and determination. His journey from humble beginnings to stardom serves as a powerful source of inspiration for artists facing their own struggles.
- Authenticity: Despite his genre-hopping, Williams maintained a unique voice and distinct style, proving that true originality lies in staying authentic to oneself.
Andy Williams’ legacy is multifaceted and evergreen, showcasing the enduring power of true artistry and personal resilience.
Jukebox Saturday Night is the ultimate trip down Rock and Pop Music’s Memory Lane, founded by the legendary radio DJ Ken Sparkes and now hosted by his nephew Justin Coombes-Pearce. Jukebox Saturday Night plays many never-before-seen music video clips from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
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