Clarence Williams was an influential American jazz pianist, composer, and music publisher. A central figure in the New Orleans and Chicago jazz scenes during the early 20th century, he helped shape the sound and business of the genre. He wrote or co-wrote many jazz standards, including 'Royal Garden Blues', 'Baby Won't You Please Come Home', and 'Sugar Blues'. His work as a bandleader and producer also helped launch the careers of many legendary musicians, including Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet.