Legendary “Stay” singer Maurice Williams dies at 86
He was not on the list.
(August 6, 2024) We are sad today to report the passing of an all-time great singer, the legendary Maurice Williams, known for the timeless classic “Stay.” The news was posted on social media by Williams’ friend Ron Henderson, Jr.
Maurice Williams is a name synonymous with early rhythm and blues. Born on April 26, 1938, in Lancaster, South Carolina, Williams discovered his passion for music at a young age, leading to the formation of his first group, the Royal Charms, during his teenage years. This group would later evolve into Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, marking the beginning of a storied career. Williams wrote the song “Little Darlin,” which became a hit for The Diamonds, but was only the beginning of Williams’ impact on the charts.
In 1960, Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs released the single “Stay,” a doo-wop classic that captivated audiences with its catchy melody and concise, under-two-minute runtime. “Stay” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of the shortest songs ever to achieve such a feat. Its enduring appeal saw it covered by numerous artists, including the Four Seasons and Jackson Browne, giving it new life in several decades.
Williams’ ability to blend relatable lyrics with infectious rhythms was showcased in subsequent releases, though none of them reach the pinnacle of “Stay.”
Maurice Williams’ contributions to music were recognized with inductions into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, affirming his status as a pioneer of rhythm and blues. With a career that spans over six decades, Maurice Williams remains a celebrated figure, whose timeless tunes continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.
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