Quick Facts
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Biography
Samuel E. "Tony" Williams (April 5, 1928 – August 14, 1992) was the lead singer of the Platters from 1953 to 1960. Williams was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and died in Manhattan of emphysema. He had an older sister, Linda Hayes.
The Platters were discovered and managed by Buck Ram. On the Mercury record label 45 rpm release of the Platters' song, "My Prayer," Williams was listed as Tony Wilson.In a dispute over money, Williams left the Platters to pursue a solo career, and continued to work with Ram.
Williams was elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Platters in 1990.Tony performed with his own, unauthorized version of the Platters, known as the International Platters, featuring his wife Helen Williams.Musical Director William Gulino worked with Tony Williams and the Platters off and on from 1978 to 1992.
Solo discography
- Magic Touch of Tony – Philips PHM-200-051 (mono)/Philips PHS-600-051 (stereo) – 1962
- A Girl Is a Girl Is A Girl – Mercury SR-60138 – 1969 (previously Mercury MG 20454 – 1961)
- Tony Williams Sings His Greatest Hits – Gold Dust Records Dust 934 (Italy) – 1994
- The Voice of The Platters – Vintage Music −2014