Maurice Williams, Singer Behind ‘Stay‘, Passes Away at 81

Maurice Williams, the legendary singer behind the 1960 hit ‘Stay‘, has passed away at the age of 81. Williams, who was a prominent figure in the doo-wop genre, died on Sunday, September 19, 2021, in his home in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Early Life and Career

Maurice Williams was born on April 26, 1938, in Lancaster, South Carolina. He began his music career in the late 1950s, forming the Zodiacs, a doo-wop group that would later become known as Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs. The group’s first single, ‘Stay‘, was released in 1960 and became a huge success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

‘Stay‘ and Its Impact

‘Stay‘ was a groundbreaking song that helped to define the doo-wop genre. It was written by Williams and was originally intended to be a demo track. However, it ended up being released as a single and became a hit, staying at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart for one week. The song has since been covered by numerous artists, including Jackson Browne, who reached the top 20 with his version in 1978.

Later Life and Legacy

After the success of ‘Stay‘, Williams continued to perform and record music throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He also worked as a producer and songwriter for other artists. In the 1980s, he began performing with various doo-wop revival groups and continued to tour and perform until his death.

Maurice Williams‘ legacy in the music industry is undeniable. He was one of the pioneers of the doo-wop genre and his song ‘Stay‘ remains a classic of the era. His influence can be heard in many later artists, including The Beach Boys, who have cited Williams as an inspiration.

Personal Life

Maurice Williams was married to his wife, Rosetta, for over 50 years. He is survived by his wife, three children, and several grandchildren. Williams’ death was confirmed by his son, Dante Williams, who announced the news on Facebook.

Funeral Services

Funeral services for Maurice Williams will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at the Macedonia Baptist Church in Lancaster, South Carolina. The service will begin at 11:00 AM and will be followed by burial at the Lancaster Memorial Park.

Conclusion

Maurice Williams was a true legend in the music industry, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of musicians. His iconic song ‘Stay‘ remains a beloved classic and his influence can be heard in many different genres of music. He will be deeply missed by his fans and the music community.