Tony Cummings remembers the musical and spiritual contribution of gospel's BEAU WILLIAMS

Beau Williams

The death of Beau Williams from cancer on 17th June brought to a close one of the most admired ministries in the long history of gospel music. During his decades-long career he won a Dove Award and on 29th June 1984 the City of Houston named the day Beau Williams Day in honour of his outstanding contributions to gospel music.

Born in 1950 in Texas and raised in a ministry family Beau actually began his recording career in mainstream when, on the recommendation of guitar wizard George Benson, he was signed to the major Capitol Records. With Capitol he recorded four R&B anthems between 1982 and 1986. But it was when Beau returned to his gospel roots that he received the acclaim his singing talent deserved. His first album for Light Records, 'Wonderful', rose to number two on the Gospel Albums Chart. The title track was a cover of an old song written by Virginia Davis and originally recorded by the Sam Cooke-led Soul Stirrers. Beau's soaring rendition (coupled with a Cooke-style yodel) made number one on the Gospel Singles Chart and won a Dove Award.

Other gospel hits emerged for the good doctor including "There's Just Something About You" and "You're The One". Williams released four albums for Light and two for his own Elbeau Records.

Read an obituary on the Legacy.com website: "Known for his unwavering faith, powerful preaching, heartfelt worship and commitment to advancing the Kingdom of God, Dr Williams dedicated his life to serving others, strengthening families, encouraging churches and leading souls to Christ. Through decades of ministry, he became a respected voice of hope, wisdom and spiritual leadership to people from all walks of life."