Singer Maurice Williams Has Died at 86

Maurice Williams, the lead singer and songwriter of the legendary doo-wop group Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, has passed away at the age of 86.

At a Glance

Maurice Williams, frontman of the Zodiacs and singer-songwriter of the 1960 hit “Stay,” has died at 86.
The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame announced his death on Aug. 6; he died in a hospital in Charlotte, N.C.
No cause of death was disclosed.
Williams began performing in church at age 6 and formed his first group in high school.

A Life Shaped by Music

Maurice Williams, the frontman of the doo-wop group the Zodiacs and singer-songwriter behind their 1960 hit song “Stay,” has died. He was 86. Born on April 26, 1938, in Lancaster, South Carolina, Williams began performing music at an early age, making his debut in church at just six years old. Throughout his life, music was his passion and his calling.

In high school, he formed his first group, the Royal Charms. This group later evolved into Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs, cementing their place in music history. Known for their harmony-rich vocals and catchy tunes, the Zodiacs made an indelible mark on the American music scene, rising to stardom with their unique sound.

The Legacy of “Stay”

In 1960, the Zodiacs released “Stay,” a song that would become their most iconic hit. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 and is the shortest song to ever reach No. 1 on the chart. The inspiration for “Stay” came from a conversation with Williams’ high school sweetheart, as he tried to convince her to spend a little more time with him. “This young lady I was going with… She said, ‘No, I gotta go.'”

Maurice Williams, 'Stay' Singer and the Zodiacs Frontman, Dies at 86 https://t.co/BPWeGRm9WO

— Variety (@Variety) August 17, 2024

Williams recognized the song’s potential after a young listener highlighted it. He later recalled, “It took me about thirty minutes to write ‘Stay,’ then I threw it away.” However, later, he was playing a tape with songs he’d written at his girlfriend’s house, and her twelve-year-old sister wanted to listen to “Stay.” He said he realized that was the “age of record-buying,” and added, “The rest is history.”

His Career

Beyond “Stay,” the Zodiacs had other hits, including “Little Darlin'” in 1957 and “May I” in 1961. They continued touring and recording through 2000, influencing many artists along the way. Notably, “Stay” was featured in the 1987 film “Dirty Dancing,” whose soundtrack sold 32 million copies worldwide. Prominent artists like the Hollies, the Four Seasons, Jackson Browne, Bruce Springsteen, and Tom Petty also covered the song, underscoring its enduring appeal.

Williams settled in Charlotte, North Carolina, in the mid-1960s. In 2010, he was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, a testament to his contributions to the music industry. Throughout his life, he remained committed to his roots, frequently returning to Lancaster to perform at local events and mentor young musicians.

A Final Farewell

On Aug. 6, 2024, the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame announced Maurice Williams’ passing. He died in a hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina. No cause of death was disclosed. Williams is survived by his beloved wife, Emily, who stood by his side throughout his illustrious career.

Williams’ legacy in the American doo-wop scene remains strong, with his music continuing to resonate with audiences old and new. His contributions to the genre and his unforgettable melodies will be celebrated for generations to come.