RIP, Roger Williams

**mark speck** · 10-08-2011, 08:47 PM

Roger Williams, the famous Easy Listening pianist of the '50s and '60s has passed away at the age of 87, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He recorded the only piano instrumental to reach number one on the Billboard charts, "Autumn Leaves", 56 years ago. It's also the only piano instrumental to sell over two million copies.

RIP, Mr. Williams, and thank you...

Best,

Mark

**marv2** · 10-08-2011, 09:15 PM

I remember him! Sorry to hear this. Rest in peace Roger. You created a lot of memorable music and thanks!

Marv

**soulster** · 10-08-2011, 11:48 PM

What is with pancreatic cancer? First Steve Jobs, and now Roger Whitaker! Is it something in the water?

The Last Farewell - R.I.P.

**gary_james** · 10-09-2011, 01:18 AM

[[WILLIAMS not Whittaker)

Born Free is a nice record, I remember it well from back then.

**mark speck** · 10-09-2011, 11:52 AM

"Born Free" was great, as well. I had a hand-me-down copy that I used to play heavily on my old Close-N-Play phonograph when I was younger.

Best,

Mark

**Doug-Morgan** · 10-09-2011, 05:52 PM

Reminds me of a time when WWJ and WJR were "Middle Of The Road" music stations. Traditional MOR stations and artists, like Mr. Williams are a deminishing group.

RIP Mr. Williams

**marv2** · 10-09-2011, 10:09 PM

Originally Posted by mark speck

"Born Free" was great, as well. I had a hand-me-down copy that I used to play heavily on my old Close-N-Play phonograph when I was younger.

Best,

Mark

We had to sing it in school as a part of music class in the 4th Grade. LOL!