David Williams (guitarist)
| David Williams | |
|---|---|
| Born | November 21, 1950 |
| Origin | Newport News, Virginia |
| Died | March 6, 2009 (aged 58) |
| Occupation(s) | Musician |
| Instruments | Guitar |
| Notable instruments | |
| Mandobird | |
David Williams (November 21, 1950 – March 6, 2009) was an American rhythm guitarist who performed and recorded with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Herbie Hancock and the Temptations, among others.
A native of Newport News, Virginia, Williams learned to play guitar as a child, but started his professional career with the Dells at age 18. This career was interrupted when he was drafted to serve in Vietnam. Upon returning home he hooked up with the Temptations for live gigs and eventually settled in Los Angeles to do studio work. Although he's featured on albums by Fred Frith (1974), Hodges James & Smith (1978), Phil Hurtt (1978), Linda Evans (1979), and his own project Chanson (1978); steadily growing success didn't begin until he was brought to Michael Jackson's attention by Everett "Blood" Hollins. Upon hearing "Chanson" on the radio, a group Blood brought to the attention of Mark Kreiner, for 1979's Off The Wall album. He was also featured on every song but one (second only to Tito Jackson) for The Jacksons' 1980 Triumph album; and played on The Jacksons concert tour that resulted in their 1982 The Jacksons Live! album.
David Williams was a popular session guitarist on other albums for many famous artists. He was hired to play by The Pointer Sisters (1980), Peter Allen (1980), Aretha Franklin (1980) and The Four Tops (1981). In 1982, he was used once again on Michael Jackson's Thriller album, where his signature funky strumming famously anchors of "Billie Jean". David also performed on Jackson's Bad album (1987).
...
Wikipedia