Otis Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Otis Williams
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Williams in 2022
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Otis Miles Jr. |
| Born | October 30, 1941 Texarkana, Texas, U.S. |
| Origin | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
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| Years active | 1958–present |
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Otis Williams, born Otis Miles Jr. on October 30, 1941, is a famous American singer. He is best known as the founder and only original member still performing with the legendary Motown group, The Temptations. He also writes songs and produces music. Otis Williams continues to perform with the group today.
Contents
Early Life and Music Beginnings
Where Otis Williams Grew Up
Otis Williams was born in Texarkana, Texas. His parents, Otis Miles and Hazel Louise Williams, separated when he was very young. He was raised by his grandmothers in Texarkana. When he was ten years old, his mother moved him to Detroit, Michigan. He then lived with her and his stepfather.
How Otis Williams Started Singing
As a teenager, Otis became very interested in music. He decided to use his mother's maiden name, Williams, as his stage name. He formed several singing groups. Some of these groups were Otis Williams and the Siberians, the El Domingoes, and the Distants.
The Temptations: A Music Journey
Forming The Temptations
In 1959, Otis Williams' group, The Distants, had a local hit song called "Come On." Otis helped write this song. Later, Berry Gordy from Motown Records offered them a deal. Otis Williams, Elbridge "Al" Bryant, and Melvin Franklin joined with Eddie Kendricks and Paul Williams from another group called The Primes. They first called themselves the Elgins. In March 1961, they signed with Motown Records. They changed their name to "The Temptations" because another group already used the name Elgins.
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The Temptations' Success
The Temptations became one of the most successful groups in soul music. They have been making music for nearly five decades. Many talented singers have been part of the group over the years. Otis Williams sings both tenor and baritone parts.
The Temptations have many famous songs. Some of their biggest hits include "My Girl" and "(I Know) I'm Losing You." They have won four Grammy Awards for their music.
Otis Williams' Role in The Temptations
Otis Williams has been with The Temptations the longest. He is the group's leader and organizer. He usually sings background vocals, often as the "baritone in the middle." He rarely sings the main lead parts.
However, Otis Williams has sung lead on a few songs. These include "Don't Send Me Away" and "This Guy's in Love with You." He also had spoken parts in songs like "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" and "Masterpiece."
The Temptations Today
The Temptations group has had many changes in its members over the years. Otis Williams and Melvin Franklin promised they would never leave the group. Melvin Franklin stayed until 1994 when he could no longer perform. He passed away in 1995. This made Otis Williams the only original member left.
Otis Williams is still performing with The Temptations. He has been on every album the band has released. Their most recent album, Temptations 60, came out in January 2022. It even featured a song with Motown artist Smokey Robinson.
Other Projects and Personal Life
Writing a Book and TV Show
Otis Williams co-wrote a book called Temptations in 1988. This book was his autobiography and told the story of the group. Ten years later, the book was made into a TV miniseries. It was called The Temptations and aired on NBC. Actor Charles Malik Whitfield played Otis Williams in the show.
Family Life
Otis Williams married Josephine Rogers in 1961. Their son, Otis Lamont Miles, was born that same year. Otis and Josephine divorced in 1964. Sadly, Otis Lamont Miles died in a workplace accident in Detroit in 1985. Otis Williams does not have any grandchildren.
He was married to Ann Cain from 1967 to 1973. He later married Arleata "Goldie" Williams in 1983. They were married until 1997. Arleata Williams' daughter, Elan Carter, was a model.
Awards and Recognition
In 1989, Otis Williams was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This honor was given to him as a member of The Temptations. He also received an honorary doctorate degree from Stillman College in May 2006.
Images for kids
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Williams in 1999
See also
In Spanish: Otis Williams para niños
