A piece of sad news came over the radio waves this morning as I heard that legendary crooner Andy Williams passed away after a year-long battle with bladder cancer at the age of 84.
My mother was a huge fan of his music, along with other popular vocalists in the 60s and 70s like Frank Sinatra, Matt Monro, etc. so I grew up listening to his songs. There might have been at least a half dozen Andy Williams CDs at my house, and every Christmas, his holiday album would be a staple.
His photos in his album covers always show a warm, inviting smile… on top of being one of the world’s greatest singers, the Iowa-born gentleman is also a natural entertainer. No wonder his TV variety show aptly titled The Andy Williams Show was a huge success, it ran for almost a decade from 1962 – 1971. If it were around now I’d sure be watching that as he often showcased fellow singing legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, etc. His charming, easy-going personality made him the perfect host for a variety of award shows like the Grammys, the Golden Globes, etc. which he did a few times.
I LOVE his high baritone voice, it’s just so beautiful and soothing to listen to. Somehow his vibrant, genial personality always come through his songs, whether it’s an upbeat tune or a more melancholy one.
A lot of his songs have been used time and time again in various films. Hi signature song is of course Moon River, one of my personal favorites that got a lot of play in my house growing up. The song from Audrey Hepburn film Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) won an Oscar for Best Original Song and Mr. Williams sang the song during the Oscar ceremony.
As a tribute to the music legend, here are five of my favorite songs:
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A Time for Us
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Can’t Get Used to Loving You
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Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You
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It’s The Most Wonderful Time in the World
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Moon River
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So what’s YOUR favorite Andy Williams’ song(s)?
Aww man! I never heard the news Ruth. Iove Andy Williams. A lot of people wouldn’t take me for the type but the man was simply superb. I’ve got a song stick in my head now but I can’t remember the title. “To dream the impossible dream” is certainly a lyric in it if it’s not the title itself. Classic stuff from Andy throughout the years.
Oooh I LOVE that song too! “To dream the impossible dream” … whenever I hear him sing it my heart just soars. Glad to hear you appreciate the man!
I never knew you were an Andy Williams fan. I’m so glad to meet another, my friend. My tribute piece comes out shortly. He will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace. Many thanks for this, Ruth.
Oh yes I am, my taste in music mimics that of my late mom, ahah, she loved ‘easy listening’ as people call it and of course classical music. Mr. Williams’ songs are so timeless. I look forward to your tribute my friend!
That is very interesting, Ruth. It coincides, alright. Our family does have that kind of influence, across so many mediums. In my case, it was my grandmother. Thanks.
I think musical taste is one that often gets passed down through generations. I know my mom liked to listen to soundtracks, too 🙂
I’ve never listen to any of his music but I know who he was. May he rest in peace.
I’ve never heard of him before, but most of these songs sound lovely, Flixy. We don’t have many romantic songs today. Emelie Sande’s NEXT TO ME is the last truly romantic song I’ve heard in recent years, most of today’s music stars sing about some horrid topics….
Yeah, we need more romantic songs don’t we? I haven’t listened to Emile Sande, I should look her up in iTunes.
I only know him from his version of “Moon River” and his Christmas songs, but I haven’t gone a single Christmas without listening to “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”. He will, indeed, be missed.
You really can’t go wrong with any of his songs, Josh.
I grew up with his TV show, what memories this brings back. He also gave the Osmond’s their start in show business. When Donny Osmond was only five years old, the family became regulars on his show. And his annual Christmas show which featured screen time for every single member of his family, from babies to grandparents, was truly a tradition. Can’t Get Used to Losing You is certainly my favorite song of his. Thanks, Flixy, for this wonderful tribute.
That is very cool what he did to the Osmonds. I have only seen clips of his show but I could see why it would be popular, he’s such a natural. I like that song too, Becky, one of my top 10 faves!
I just saw this in my news feed. So sad to see him pass away but he lived a good life and left a legacy forever through his wonderful voice. Great selections of songs, Ruth.
His voice is wonderful indeed, Cas. Thanks for listening 🙂
Very sad news indeed. And this is a fantastic tribute to the great man.
🙂
Thanks matey, how very kind.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – LOVE IT. His version is one of my holiday favorites.
Glad to hear! It’s so joyful.
Finishing my Small/Big write-up but a little confused on how you would like us to get it to you. Post it on my blog then send you the link?
I honestly didn’t know that he was the original singer for ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Of You’. The songs are true classics! I love Moon River (which I heard first in one of SATC episodes, sadly). RIP Andy Williams.
I truly was sad to hear this myself. I enjoyed so many of his songs, and you posted the vids for several of my favorites. they don’t make them like they used to anymore.
thank you for such a nice tribute. I think my favorite is the same as Keith’s.
Great post and nice tribute. RIP Andy. I’ll always associate him with Christmas songs and my favorite is “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”.