Lee Williams
Date of Birth: June 10th
Birth Place: Kinston, NC Sign: Gemini Nickname: The Rev |
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When Sonny acquired Lee it was like a homecoming, Lee’s group was a label
mate of the Manhattans at Carnival Records in 1965. His group Lee Williams & The
Cymbals had a hit with the song ‘ “I Love You More” while with the Cymbals, Lee
had the chance to have the legendary Anthony Jackson (Jazz Basses & Inventor of
the 5 string Bass) play in the back-up band that accompanied the group. Lee was
asked to become the lead vocalist of the Manhattans when original lead singer
George Smith became sick, but he didn't except the offer due to a committed
obligation he made to his fellow group members. After leaving Carnival Records
Lee became the lead vocalist for the Intruders of “ Cowboy’s to Girls “ fame.
His cousins were the Draughty Family. Eugene ‘ Bird ‘ Draughty was one of the
Original Intruders, and his brother Freddy was the Road Manager for the Moments
before he started his own Intruders. On January 2nd 1999 Lee was Presented the
key to the City of Kinston, NC it was a very special occasion for him, after
leaving the City of Kinston then coming home to receive this Award was the icing
on the cake, or as Lee would say its Gods will that this is happening to me.
People have said Lee’s voice sounds so close to Sam Cooke that if you close your
eyes, while Lee is singing you would think Sam was in the room with you. Lee is
a very spiritual person you can feel the presents of the lord while he is
singing, he is also a giving and trustworthy type person, Lee is up front and
will let you know if he doesn’t like the way things are going. Lee also does the
designing of the clothes the Manhattans wear doing their appearances. As Sonny
would say it truly is a pleasure to have Lee back home as a Manhattan.