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Paul Williams

Paul Williams is an American singer, songwriter, composer, and actor known for hit songs in the 1970s and for film music.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Paul Williams is an American singer, songwriter, composer, and actor best known for writing and performing hit songs in the 1970s. He wrote or co-wrote numerous popular songs, including “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” “Evergreen,” and “Rainbow Connection.” His work has earned him major industry recognition, including an Academy Award, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.

Early life

Paul Williams was born as Paul Hamilton Williams Jr. on September 19, 1940, in Omaha, Nebraska, United States. He is an American singer, songwriter, composer, and actor.

Songwriting career

Williams became widely known as a songwriter and performer in the 1970s. He wrote or co-wrote songs recorded by such acts as the Carpenters, Three Dog Night, Helen Reddy, and Barbra Streisand. His notable compositions include “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” “An Old Fashioned Love Song,” “Evergreen,” and “Rainbow Connection.”

Film and television work

Williams also worked as a composer and actor. He wrote the score and lyrics for the film *Bugsy Malone* and contributed to *The Muppet Movie* and *A Star Is Born*. His film and television credits demonstrate his versatility as a songwriter and performer.

Awards and recognition

Williams received top industry recognition for his songwriting, including an Academy Award, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards. He has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Key facts

  • Paul Williams became widely known as a songwriter and performer in the 1970s.
  • He wrote or co-wrote songs recorded by the Carpenters, Three Dog Night, Helen Reddy, and Barbra Streisand.
  • He wrote the score and lyrics for the film *Bugsy Malone* and contributed to *The Muppet Movie*.
  • He won major awards including an Academy Award, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.
  • He has also acted in film and television.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Paul Williams?
Paul Williams is an American singer, songwriter, composer, and actor best known for popular songs and film music from the 1970s.
What are Paul Williams’s best-known songs?
His best-known songs include “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays,” “An Old Fashioned Love Song,” “Evergreen,” and “Rainbow Connection.”
Where was Paul Williams born?
He was born in Omaha, Nebraska, United States.
What awards has Paul Williams won?
He has won an Academy Award, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.
What films is Paul Williams associated with?
He is associated with *Bugsy Malone*, *The Muppet Movie*, and *A Star Is Born*.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Paul-Williams-American-songwriter
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, nationality, occupations, and broad career overview.
  2. Paul Williams Officialhttps://www.williamsofficial.com/
    Supports: Career summary, awards, ASCAP role, and major songs.
  3. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Williams_(songwriter)
    Supports: Full name, notable songs, film contributions, and awards summary.
  4. AllMusichttps://www.allmusic.com/artist/paul-williams-mn0000753254
    Supports: Biographical overview and career as singer-songwriter and performer.