(March 26, 2025) We are sad to pass on the news of the passing of guitar great Clarence “Chet” Willis, a member of the legendary Ohio Players for a half century.
Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Willis’s musical journey commenced in his youth, drawing inspiration from late-night radio broadcasts, church services, and local musical talents. His early career saw him playing guitar for a local gospel group called The Gospelteers, as well as several local R&B groups. He was influenced by 1960s guitar greats Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana, but developed his own style.
In 1975, Willis’s prowess on the guitar led to his recruitment by the Ohio Players, where he was affectionately nicknamed “Chet.” His tenure with the band coincided with their golden era, contributing to gold and platinum mega-hits like “Funky Worm,” “Rollercoaster,” “Honey,” “Skin Tight,” and “Fire!” His rhythmic precision and soulful licks became a cornerstone of the band’s distinctive sound, blending seamlessly with their horn-driven arrangements and dynamic stage presence.
In 1979, during a transitional phase for the Ohio Players, Willis, alongside fellow members James “Diamond” Williams and William “Billy” Beck, ventured into a side project that culminated in the formation of the band Shadow. Shadow released three albums on the Elektra label between 1979 and 1981, including “Love Lite,” “Shadow,” and “Shadows in the Street,” showcasing their versatility and commitment to musical innovation.
But Willis, who relocated to Georgia late in life, remained part of the core group The Ohio Players well into the 21st Century, with a sound that was essential to the group’s success.
