Clarence Williams (musician)

Clarence Williams was an American jazz pianist, composer, promoter, vocalist, theatrical producer, and publisher.

Williams was born in Plaquemine, Louisiana, ran away from home at ageto join Billy Kersands Traveling Minstrel Show, then moved to New Orleans. At first Williams worked shining shoes and doing odd jobs, but soon became known as a singer and master of ceremonies. By the early 1910s he was a well regarded local entertainer also playing piano, and was composing new tunes by 1913. Williams was a good businessman and worked arranging and managing entertainment at the local AfricanAmerican vaudeville theater as well as at various saloons and dance halls around Rampart Street, and at clubs and houses in Storyville.

Source: Wikipedia