Roger Williams | |
|---|---|
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Roger_Williams_1958.JPG) Williams in 1958 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Louis Jacob Weertz |
| Born | October 1, 1924 Omaha, Nebraska, U.S. |
| Died | October 8, 2011 (aged 87) Encino, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Pop standards |
| Instrument | Piano |
| Years active | 1955–2011 |
| Labels | Kapp |
| Website | www |
Roger Williams (born Louis Jacob Weertz; October 1, 1924 – October 8, 2011) was an American popular music pianist. Described by the Los Angeles Times as "one of the most popular instrumentalists of the mid-20th century", and "the rare instrumental pop artist to strike a lasting commercial chord," Williams had 22 hit singles–including the chart-topping "Autumn Leaves" in 1955 and "Born Free" in 1966–and 38 hit albums between 1955 and 1972.[1]
He was a Navy boxing champion, played for nine U.S. Presidential administrations, and had a gold Steinway & Sons grand piano model named in his honor.[1]
- ^ a b Nelson, Valerie J. (October 9, 2011). "Roger Williams dies at 87; 'Autumn Leaves' pop pianist found commercial success". Los Angeles Times. p. A43. Retrieved November 17, 2014.