Passing of R&B Music Legend, Maurice Williams

NC Music Hall of Fame Inductee Passes at Age 86

Maurice Williams, the iconic R&B musician and lead singer of Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, passed away on August 6, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on April 26, 1938, in Lancaster, South Carolina, Williams began performing in church at the age of six and went on to form his first group, The Royal Charms, during his high school years.

Williams’ first major hit came in 1957 with the song “Little Darlin’,” which he wrote and recorded with his group, then known as The Gladiolas. The song climbed to #11 on the R&B Chart, and later became a major hit when recorded by The Diamonds. In 1959, Williams renamed the group to Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, and in 1960, they released the timeless classic “Stay,” which became the shortest #1 song on the Billboard charts at just 1 minute and 32 seconds long.

“Stay” was later featured in the 1987 movie Dirty Dancing, cementing its place in pop culture history. Williams also achieved success with the 1961 hit “May I,” which became his third million-seller. Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs continued to tour and record over the years, maintaining a lasting impact on the music industry.

Maurice Williams was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2007 and the NC Music Hall of Fame in 2010. As a pioneer of early rock n’ roll and rhythm and blues he had a career that spanned over six decades. His contribution of unique songwriting and vocal abilities, will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. He is survived by his wife Emily, with whom he resided in Charlotte, North Carolina.