Clarence Williams was a talented American jazz pianist, composer, and promoter born in Plaquemine, Louisiana, in 1898. From a young age, he was immersed in music, running away from home at twelve to join a minstrel show. Once in New Orleans, Williams worked many odd jobs but quickly became a well-known singer and entertainer. By the early 1910s, he had started composing music and arranging performances at local theatres and clubs.

In 1915, he partnered with Armand J. Piron to establish a successful music publishing business. By the 1920s, he had become a significant figure in the jazz scene, recording with renowned artists like Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith. Williams also created a hub for African American artists in Queens, New York, fostering community and collaboration during a time of racial segregation. His legacy includes numerous compositions and recordings that contribute to the rich history of jazz music.