Howard Andrew Williams achieved massive success as an American singer, record producer, and television host, selling over 45 million records globally. Born in Wall Lake, Iowa, on December 3, 1927, he spent over seven decades in the entertainment industry, transitioning from a childhood member of a singing quartet to a global star of television and studio music.
Early Career and The Williams Brothers
Williams began performing in a children's church choir before forming The Williams Brothers quartet with his siblings Bob, Don, and Dick in late 1938. The group performed on radio programs in Des Moines, Chicago, and Cincinnati. Upon moving to Los Angeles in 1943, they provided vocals for Bing Crosby’s 1944 hit, Swinging on a Star. The brothers appeared in several musical films, including Janie, Kansas City Kitty, and Ladies' Man. Following a stint in the United States Merchant Marine during World War II, Williams joined a successful nightclub act led by Kay Thompson, which gained international prominence starting in 1947.
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After the quartet disbanded, Williams pursued a solo career, initially recording for RCA Victor’s label X. His breakthrough came after appearing as a regular on Tonight Starring Steve Allen. He signed with Cadence Records, where he secured his first Billboard number-one hit, Butterfly, in 1957. Other notable releases during this period included Canadian Sunset, Hawaiian Wedding Song, and The Village of St. Bernadette.
Columbia Records and Television Stardom
In 1962, Williams moved to Columbia Records and debuted with the successful album Danny Boy and Other Songs I Love to Sing. His performance of Moon River at the 1962 Academy Awards solidified his status as a popular music staple. From 1962 to 1971, he hosted The Andy Williams Show, a variety program that earned three Emmy Awards. Throughout his career, he recorded 43 albums, 15 of which were gold-certified and three were platinum-certified.
Fast facts
- Born: December 3, 1927, Wall Lake, Iowa
- Died: September 25, 2012, Branson
- Fields of work: Pop music, popular music
- Education: Western Hills High School, Hollywood Professional School
- Grammy Awards nominations: 6
- Global record sales: Over 45 million
- Awards: Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame, Ellis Island Medal of Honor
Questions readers ask
Did Andy Williams sing for Lauren Bacall in the film To Have and Have Not?
No, this is a persistent myth; Lauren Bacall performed her own singing in the film.
What was the cause of Andy Williams' death?
He died from bladder cancer in 2012 at the age of 84.
Achievements
- Ellis Island Medal of Honor
- Instruments: voice
- Genres: pop music, easy listening and jazz
