William King (singer)

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William King
Born (1949-01-30) January 30, 1949 (age 75)
Other namesWak
Years active1968–present
Spouses
Shirley Hanna-King
(m. 1976)
Deborah Walker-King
(m. 2020)
Children4
Musical career
Genres
Occupation(s)
  • Singer-songwriter
  • Composer
  • Multi-instrumentalist
  • Choreographer
Instrument(s)
  • Vocals
  • trumpet
  • guitar
  • synthesizer
  • flute
  • percussion
Labels

William King (born January 30, 1949)[1] is an American singer, musician and choreographer. He is a founding member of the Commodores, where he plays trumpet, guitar, synthesizer, flute, and congas/percussion and is the group's choreographer.

Background[edit]

King was born in Birmingham, Alabama. After college, he considered playing tennis professionally but decided to continue his career with the Commodores.[1] King was also hired by a digital computer company to write software but gave that up as well to join the band.[2]

King's compositions include "Lady" and "I'm In Love", both of which he co-composed with Harold Hudson and his wife Shirley Hanna-King. The latter was the B side to their single "Janet" which was released in 1985.[3]

Personal life[edit]

King married his songwriting partner and fellow Grammy Award nominee, Shirley Hanna-King in 1976 and they have four children. King is an avid tennis player and has participated in many tournaments.

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "William King". Commodoreslive.com. Retrieved 2012-07-24.
  2. ^ Inlander, January 09, 2020 - Music News, The Commodores' William King talks about the early years on the road, basketball with Marvin Gaye and the magic of Motown By Sean Mcalindin
  3. ^ 45Cat - Commodores - Discography, USA