Dave Williams
David Williams (also known as David "Happy" Williams) is a prominent Trinidadian jazz double-bassist born on September 17, 1946. He is best known for his work as a leader and a highly sought-after sideman in the jazz and R&B spheres.
Born in Trinidad, he was the son of John "Buddy" Williams, a noted bassist and calypso bandleader. He began playing piano at age 5 and bass at age 12. He studied at the London College of Music for a year before moving to New York City in 1969. After moving to the U.S., he worked with major artists including Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, and Chuck Mangione. He also played with Donald Byrd & the Blackbyrds, earning his first gold record.
His bass playing is noted as deep, resonant, effortless, and technically brilliant, driving the tracks. Tracks like "Out of the Sheets – Into the Streets" were popular in clubs, even appearing in films like Trading Places. Many listeners find it holds up exceptionally well, offering a deep, satisfying listen beyond just the hits. In 1982, Williams became a permanent member of the Cedar Walton Trio alongside drummer Billy Higgins, a group regarded as one of the finest in contemporary acoustic jazz.
He has appeared on approximately 200 albums, working with legends like Art Pepper, Ornette Coleman, Elvin Jones, and George Cables. In his later career, he returned to his Trinidadian roots, composing and recording "pan jazz" and calypso-inspired music, such as the 2003 album Reid, Wright and Be Happy.
Soul is Free
A2 Out Of The Sheets-Into The Streets 4:11
A3 Let's Go Visit The World Today 4:11
A4 Change Of Pace 3:39
B1 Come On Down, Boogie People 7:37
B2 Party Lady 5:39
B3 Keep Dancin' Wit Me 3:45
B4 Glad I Found You 2:44
Written by Dave Williams
Label: AVI Records – AVI-6040
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1978
Genre: R&B Soul, Jazz
Style: Seventies Soul, Disco, Jazz
Dave Williams' 1978 album Soul Is Free is a highly-regarded disco/soul-jazz fusion record, praised for its deep grooves, brilliant bass work by Williams, infectious energy, and standout tracks like "Out of the Sheets – Into the Streets," with its slick production (by Rinder & Lewis) making it a dancefloor staple and a "heat start to finish" record for funk/soul enthusiasts. Reviews highlight its timeless sound, deep basslines, and seamless blend of jazz and R&B, making it a must-listen for fans of the era.
His bass playing is noted as deep, resonant, effortless, and technically brilliant, driving the tracks. Tracks like "Out of the Sheets – Into the Streets" were popular in clubs, even appearing in films like Trading Places. Many listeners find it holds up exceptionally well, offering a deep, satisfying listen beyond just the hits.
David Williams was a prolific Trinidadian-born double bassist and session musician. While Soul Is Free leaned into the commercial R&B and disco spheres of the late 1970s, Williams is equally respected in the jazz world for his long-standing work with the Cedar Walton Trio and other jazz luminaries.