Joe Williams

We remember jazz singer Joe Williams who died yesterday at the age of 80. Williams begin singing professionally at age 17, influenced by Erskine Tate, Jimmy Noone and Coleman Hawkins. In 1954, he became Count Basie's number one singer and was perhaps the principal reason the band was the dominate big band of the 50s and 60s. His hits include "Every Day (I Have the Blues)" and "All Right, Ok, You Win." He started performing as a soloist in 1961. (REBROADCAST from 6/20/89)

The Chicago-born Williams sang for the Count Basie Orchestra before beginning a solo career in 1962. In the 1940s, he suffered a nervous breakdown, unsure of what he wanted out of his professional life. After a year in the hospital, he returned to performing, and has a new album called In Good Company.

Joe Williams has long been affiliated with the the gospel group and will officially become the newest member after found James Davis retires.