Basketball Player-Turned-R&B Singer, Cunnie Williams, Dead at 61

Cunnie Williams, basketball player turned R&B singer, passed away in August at the age of 61. The record label Peppermint Jam confirmed his death in a statement on social media on August 21.

“Cunnie was a gentle giant and brought a lot of joy to people with his warm voice and his deep songs. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. His music will live on, rest in peace,” the label wrote on Instagram.

Williams started out with a career in basketball, but switched to making music in the 90s. In 1995 he released his debut album, Straight from the Heart of the Ghetto. His last album, No Place Like Home, was released in 2008. Williams possessed a smooth, deep voice that was often compared to Barry White, and he was most known for the songs “Saturday” and “Come Back to Me.” He also collaborated with artists like Monie Love and Wu-Tang Clan’s Buddha Monk.

Fans gathered in the comments of the Instagram post to grieve and share their love for Cunnie Williams. Many offered their condolences to his family, and shared memories of Williams’ performances.

Cunnie Williams Dies, Fans Share Their Condolences

DJ Louie Vega wrote, “I’m very sorry to hear. Sending our deepest condolences, loved his voice.” Others commented their memories of Cunnie Williams and shared their love of his work. “[D]esigned Saturday cover 98 for him and saw him on a magnificent gig at Reeperbahn. So sad to hear,” wrote Andre Baxmann.

“We were at a concert in Hanover in 1994. This wonderful voice will never be forgotten. Rest in peace,” wrote another fan. One fan shared their support in a lengthy comment thanking Cunnie for his music.

“This is sad news,” they wrote. “How much I loved his voice and music, and how unfortunate it is that the right credit was never given to a voice and an artist who could have contributed so much to music. He created such beautiful music that will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who listened. Thank you for the emotions you gave us, Cunnie Williams.”

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