Maurice Williams, Zodiacs‘ Writer & Singer of ‘Stay‘, Dead at 81

Maurice Williams, the legendary singer and writer of the Zodiacs‘ hit song ‘Stay‘, has passed away at the age of 81. The song, which was released in 1960, became a chart-topper and remains one of the most popular songs of the doo-wop era.

Early Life and Career

Maurice Williams was born on April 26, 1938, in Lancaster, South Carolina. He started his music career in the 1950s as the lead singer of the Zodiacs, a doo-wop group formed in 1953. The Zodiacs consisted of Williams, his cousin Henry Gaston, and friends Earl Gainey, Willie Jones, and Norman Wade.

‘Stay‘ and Success

‘Stay‘, written by Williams, was initially released as the B-side to the Zodiacs‘ single ‘I Remember’. However, it was ‘Stay‘ that gained popularity and eventually reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. The song’s success led to the Zodiacs being signed by Al Silverman of Herald Records, who re-released ‘Stay‘ as an A-side.

‘Stay‘ has since become a classic of the doo-wop era and has been covered by numerous artists, including Jackson Browne, who reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 with his version in 1977. The song has also been featured in various films, including ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘American Graffiti’.

Later Life and Death

After the Zodiacs disbanded in the early 1960s, Williams continued to perform and record music. He released several solo albums and singles throughout the years, including ‘Being Without You’, which reached No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965.

Maurice Williams passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2020, at his home in Charlotte, North Carolina. His death was confirmed by his son, Richard Williams, who stated that his father had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Legacy

Maurice Williams‘ legacy in the music industry is undeniable. His song ‘Stay‘ remains a beloved classic, and his influence can be heard in many modern artists. Williams’ contributions to the doo-wop genre have been recognized by the Doo Wop Hall of Fame, which inducted him in 2008.

Williams is survived by his wife, Frances, and their three children, Richard, Nicole, and Maurice Jr. His family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.

Conclusion

Maurice Williams, the legendary singer and writer of the Zodiacs‘ hit song ‘Stay‘, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His contributions to the doo-wop genre and his timeless hit will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. Rest in peace, Maurice Williams.