One of the signature singing voices of the twentieth century left us this week. Andy Williams, whose clear effortless tenor, easy smile, and startling cerulean eyes made him a natural for 1960s television and nightclubs, was best known for his romantic ballads. His style was more understated than many, and perhaps it was precisely that which set him apart. Any song he performed, became his own.
My musical tastes at the time tended more toward classical/jazz, or rock and roll. Middle of the road music just didn't appeal. Yet as a former vocalist, I can tell you that the quality and range of Andy's voice was superb. He was a natural. (Plus, I was envious of his marriage to French singer Claudine Longet.)
You can learn more about his life in remembrances in the NYTimes and the Washington Post. And here is his extensive discography ~ 42 studio albums, 2 live albums, 16 compilation albums, and 79 singles. Scroll down to the list of singles and you'll discover the songs which his voice caressed, including Hawaiian Wedding Song, Lonely Street, Danny Boy, Twilight Time, Days of Wine and Roses, Dear Heart, Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars, Music to Watch Girls By, and his theme song, Moon River. For your listening pleasure, here is the purer studio version of Moon River, and here is his live performance (so that you can see his relaxed, romantic singing style.) Enjoy.
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