The Recording Academy Releases Statement on Andy Williams' Passing

The Recording Academy has released the following statement on Andy Williams' passing:

"Andy Williams' smooth voice and casual style turned the songs he sang into timeless classics and made him one of America's top pop singers. As host of his own weekly variety series, "The Andy Williams Show," he helped put both established and emerging talent in front of American audiences. Williams was the first host of the live GRAMMY Awards telecast and hosted the show for seven consecutive years, beginning with the 13th Annual GRAMMY Awards in March 1971, at the Hollywood Palladium. The entertainment industry has lost a giant piece of its living history today, but Williams' legacy will forever be enshrined in the annals of music and television. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who will miss this American treasure."