Died On This Date (October 8, 2011) Roger Williams / The Pianist To The Presidents
themusicsover Roger Williams (Born Louis Weertz)
October 1, 1924 – October 8, 2011
Roger Williams was a popular American pianist who released several hit instrumental records during the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Williams reportedly began playing the piano at age 3, and except for a break to give boxing a respectable shot during his late teens, Williams devoted his life to the instrument. After majoring in piano in college – which he was expelled from, Williams enlisted in the US Navy during World War II where he earned for his Bachelor’s degree. After being discharged, he went on to earn his Master’s, and then moved to New York City to study at famed music school, Julliard. It was while filling in one night for an absent performer on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts, Williams was discovered and signed to Kapp Records. In 1955, he released “Autumn Leaves” which is still the only piano instrumental to ever reach #1 on the Billboard pop charts. The record went on to sell over 2 million copies. His next big hit came in 1966 with “Born Free,” the theme song to the popular motion picture of the same name. Other hits included “Near You,” “The Impossible Dream,” and “The Theme From Somewhere In Time.” Over a career that spanned more than 56 years, he released over 116 albums. Always a popular guest at the White House, Williams performed for nine different Presidents, beginning with Harry S. Truman. His last was at a 2008 luncheon hosted by Laura Bush. As reported by the Los Angeles Daily News, Roger Williams was 87 when he passed away on October 8, 2011. He had been suffering from pancreatic cancer.
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