Singer Andy Williams Dead at 84 (VIDEO)

Legendary singer and TV host Andy Williams has died. According to his rep, Williams passed away last night at his home in Branson, MO after a year-long battle with bladder cancer. He was 84.

The “Moon River” singer is survived by his wife Debbie and his three children, Robert, Noelle, and Christian. Via TMZ

According to the editor of Billboard Magazine, Andy Williams hosted the Grammys 9 times between 1971 and 1983 has 11 gold and 3 platinum albums. He hosted the Andy Willms show for 9 years, garnering 3 Emmy wins.

I mostly remember Andy Williams Christmas specials with his wife, Claudine Longet and his kids.  He continued the tradition even after the two divorced (she went on to “accidentally” shoot her skier boyfriend, but I digress).

Andy Williams biggest hit was “Moon River”.  He also discovered the Osmond Brothers, who sang on his show many times as young children who specialized in barbershop style harmonies.

In later years, he moved to Branson and opened the Moon River Theater there. The Idol connection? A slew of alums performed at William’s theater over the summer, as part of an Idol alum concert.

Check out Andy singing Moon River on his show in 1961. And then watch a somewhat bizarre performance of “blues” songs featuring an odd cast of singers that included Dusty Springfield, Ray Stevens and the young Osmond Brothers. And of course, Andy performing with his “singer” wife, Claudine!

Oh 60’s variety shows were so weird.

Andy Williams Sings Moon River – 1961

Andy Williams and Claudine Longet – Let it Be Me 1969

Andy Williams, Dusty Springfield, Ray Stevens, The Osmonds – Blues Medley

http://youtu.be/OxWzjr5khJE

About mj santilli 34832 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!