Some of us remember Clifton Williams as an inspiring young classical and jazz pianist from the DC area when he first appeared on From the Top at age 17. Now, he’s living in LA and serving as the musical director for Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, and he’s playing something fun for us today.
Washington, DC Clifton Williams returned to From the Top to perform as part of the 2021 Juneteenth Special with fellow alumni Kevin Olusola and Hannah White, aired on June 14, 2021. He previously appeared on Show 296, recorded in Washington, D.C. on October 24, 2014. He also performed on Show 195, recorded in Boston, MA, on March 29, 2009 and was a recipient of From the Top’s Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award.
A proud native of Washington D.C, Clifton is an accomplished pianist and songwriter. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Clifton earned a dual degree in Contemporary Writing and Production, and, Music Education.
Clifton has also served as Musical Director for the two-time Emmy Award winning Black Music and Civil Rights Movement Concert. Performed annually at the historic Dallas Meyerson Symphony Hall, it is broadcast on CBS-11/TXA 21. He’s worked with a range of artists from Ledisi to Nik West, Bilal, Melanie Fiona, and Tramaine Hawkins.
Clifton currently juggles a lively and fun touring schedule with legendary artists including: Grammy and Tony award winner Jennifer Holliday; The Original Blues Brothers Revue; and, world-renowned producer and artist, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.
Music has the unique ability to bring joy to our lives – especially in the hands of young people. Daily Joy is a reminder of music’s power to uplift, inspire, and unite.
Daily Joy is a project of From the Top. It began in the very early days of the Covid-19 pandemic and continues today to offer a much-needed respite from the anxiety and worry that we encounter in the world.
From the Top is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the stories and artistry of young musicians through media and leadership programs. Learn more.
From the Top is grateful to the Richard K. Lubin Family Foundation for their generous support of Daily Joy.
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Daily Joy is a program of From the Top, an independent non-profit organization that relies on support from individuals. Your support will help ensure From the Top's work of celebrating the joy, talents, and stories of extraordinary young musicians.