Maurice Williams, the esteemed rhythm and blues singer and composer, has died at the age of 86.

The announcement of Williams' passing on Aug. 6 was made by the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, highlighting the loss of a significant figure in the music industry, as ABC News reports.

Williams is best known for his 1960 hit "Stay," a song that became a timeless classic and was covered by numerous artists over the decades.

The renowned artist began his musical journey early, growing up in Lancaster, South Carolina, where he started singing in church.

His passion for music led him to form the gospel group Junior Harmonizers, which eventually evolved into the Royal Charms and later, the Zodiacs. These early experiences in harmony groups laid the foundation for his future success in the music world.

The Creation of a Timeless Hit

In 1960, Maurice Williams and his group, the Zodiacs, recorded "Stay" during a studio session. This song, which Williams wrote as a teenager, became their only major success. Remarkably, "Stay" climbed to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard pop chart, despite its brief duration, making it one of the shortest chart-toppers of the rock era.

The inspiration for "Stay" came from Williams's teenage crush, Mary Shropshire. He once reflected on this period, saying, “(Mary) was the one I was trying to get to stay a little longer. Of course, she couldn’t.” This poignant memory translated into the lyrics that resonated with millions of listeners.

A Song That Transcended Generations

Over the years, "Stay" was embraced by a wide array of artists, further cementing its place in music history. The Hollies, the Four Seasons, and Jackson Browne were among the prominent figures who covered the song. Browne's rendition of "Stay," featured on his 1977 album Running on Empty, introduced the song to a new generation of fans.

In 1979, Browne performed "Stay" at the “No Nukes” concert, a memorable event where he was joined by Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. The original version of "Stay" also gained renewed popularity when it was included in the soundtrack of the 1987 film Dirty Dancing, exposing the song to a fresh audience.

Other Musical Contributions and Lasting Influence

While "Stay" was his most famous work, Maurice Williams's musical contributions extended beyond this single hit. He was also known for other notable songs like "Little Darlin'" in 1957 and "May I" in 1965. "Little Darlin'" became a hit for the Diamonds, while "May I" found success through Bill Deal & the Rhondels.

Throughout his career, Williams remained a prominent figure on the oldies music circuit, continuing to perform and engage with audiences. He released albums such as Let This Night Last and Back to Basics, which showcased his enduring passion for music.

A Life Rooted in the Carolinas

In the mid-1960s, Williams settled in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he became an integral part of the local music scene. His contributions were formally recognized in 2010 when he was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, an honor that celebrated his impact on the state's musical heritage.

Williams's early years were shaped by his upbringing in Lancaster, South Carolina, where his love for music was nurtured in the church. His journey from a gospel singer to a celebrated R&B artist is a testament to his talent and dedication.

The Legacy of "Stay" and Maurice Williams

The story of how "Stay" came to be is as enduring as the song itself. Williams once recounted how a 12-year-old girl inspired him to record the song that would define his career. "We were looking for songs to record as Maurice Williams and The Zodiacs," he said. "I was over at my girlfriend's house playing the tape of songs I had written when her little sister said, 'Please do the song with the high voice in it.' I knew she meant 'Stay.' She was about 12 years old, and I said to myself, 'She's the age of record buying,' and the rest is history. I thank God for her."

This serendipitous moment led to the creation of a song that not only topped the charts but also became a cultural touchstone for generations of music lovers.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact on Music

Maurice Williams's passing marks the end of an era for rhythm and blues, but his legacy lives on through his music.

From his early days in gospel to his rise to fame with "Stay," Williams's contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

His songs continue to be celebrated and performed, ensuring that his influence will endure for years to come.