Paul Williams (December 1, 1934 – April 24, 2016), known professionally as Billy Paul, was an American soul singer, known for his 1972 No. 1 single "Me and Mrs. Jones". His 1973 album and single War of the Gods blends his more conventional pop, soul, and funk styles with electronic and psychedelic influences.He was one of the many artists associated with the Philadelphia soul sound created by Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Thom Bell. Paul was identified by his diverse vocal style, which ranged from mellow and soulful to low and raspy. Questlove of the Roots equated Paul with Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, calling him "one of the criminally unmentioned proprietors of socially conscious post-revolution '60s civil rights music."

基本资料

国籍：美国

出生地：美国宾夕法尼亚州

职业：歌手

生日：1934年12月1日

演艺经历

Paul was featured on radio broadcasts in Philadelphia at age 11 and had an extensive jazz background.

He'd been recording since the 50s, when he debuted on Jubilee. He worked with Dinah Washington, Miles Davis, and Roberta Flack, as well as Charlie Parker, before forming a trio and recording for Jubilee.

His original 1959 recording of Ebony Woman for New Dawn

was later re-recorded for Neptune as the title of his 1970 LP

1971年 He signed the next year with Philadelphia International

scored his biggest hit with Me & Mrs. Jones in 1972, topping both the R&B and pop charts.

Paul had one other Top Ten R&B single, Thanks for Saving My Life, in 1974.

Billy Paul had a good run in the 70s as an R&B vocalist

He remained on Philadelphia International until the mid-80s.

Paul recorded one LP for Total Experience in 1985, Lately,

and another for Ichiban before announcing his retirement in 1989 in London.

But he's since done several club dates, both in America and overseas.