(October 21, 2020) We are sad to inform SoulTrackers of the death of legendary Philadelphia bass guitarist Jimmie Williams. Williams was best known as part of the O’Jays band for more than forty years, but that is just the beginning of his resume.
Williams played on recording of most of the great Philadelphia International Records artists, including The Jones Girls, Teddy Pendergrass, and Patti Labelle.
Four years ago, Williams was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame, and, at the time told the Philadelphia Tribune, “During my high school years I started off as a vocalist in the local singing group called the Italics. I wanted to be part of what Gamble and Huff were developing, which was ‘The Sound of Philadelphia,’ which later became Philadelphia International Records, and as time went by, I did not become a vocalist. I became a bassist.”
His distinctive work on such hits as “Love TKO,” “Forever Mine,” and “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” will continue to please fans for decades to come. But his presence will be missed. Rest in Peace, Mr. Williams.
By Chris Rizik
