Harvey Brownstone Interviews Paul Williams, Legendary Composer, Lyricist, Actor and Author

Harvey Brownstone conducts an in-depth interview with Paul Williams, Legendary Composer, Lyricist, Actor and Author
About Harvey’s Guest:
Paul Williams is one of the most beloved and respected music creators in the world today. A lyricist and composer who has won an Oscar Award, three Grammy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, an Ivor Novello International Award, and earned induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, his songs, from “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “You and Me Against the World” to “An Old Fashioned Love Song” and “The Rainbow Connection,” have touched millions of people for generations. As President and Chairman of the Board of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), he is also a leading spokesman for music creators in the digital age.
Williams’ standards have been recorded by such diverse musical icons as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, David Bowie, Tony Bennett, The Carpenters, Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Willie Nelson, Gonzo and Kermit The Frog. Although Williams is widely known as an actor in dozens of films and on television, it is his musical legacy that continues to inspire. His songs and scores have received six Oscar, nine Grammy, six Golden Globe and two Emmy nominations. “The Rainbow Connection,” from the children’s classic The Muppet Movie, is one of two Williams’ songs that grace the American Film Institute’s List of Top Movie Songs of All Time; the second, “Evergreen,” is from the award-winning Barbra Streisand/ Kris Kristofferson remake of A Star Is Born. Additional song scores include the cult favorites Phantom of the Paradise and Ishtar, as well as The Muppet Christmas Carol, Bugsy Malone, and Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas, the latter of which has now been adapted for the stage. Paul created the story and wrote the songs for Disney’s Emmy-nominated A Muppets Christmas: Letters To Santa and penned the music and lyrics for Garry Marshall’s theatrical sensation Happy Days. His recent work has remained wonderfully diverse, having co-written “Beyond” and “Touch” (which he also performed, receiving a Grammy as Featured Artist) on Daft Punk’s chart-topping, ‘Album of the Year’ Random Access Memories; and writing with Gustavo Santaolalla for the animated film, The Book of Life which received a World Soundtrack Award for their “Apology Song”. They also collaborated on Guillermo del Toro’s stage musical adaptation of Pan’s Labyrinth.
In addition to music creators’ rights, Paul is also passionate about recovery, and works tirelessly to destigmatize alcoholism and addiction. His career, life, and work in recovery have been chronicled in the acclaimed documentary, Paul Williams Still Alive, for which Paul wrote the critically acclaimed title track. Sober 30 years, his humorous observations of life, love, and creativity, augmented by the education and knowledge he gained through his studies and certification from UCLA as a Certified Drug Rehabilitation Counselor, has been shared in a best-selling book co-written by Tracey Jackson, entitled Gratitude and Trust: Six Affirmations That Will Change Your Life which was featured on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday.
While publicly lauded for his work as a songwriter, author and actor, most recently for his recurring role with Billy Bob Thornton in Goliath, Paul predicts he’ll be remembered for playing Little Enos in the Smokey and the Bandit trilogy and for his lyrics to “The Love Boat” theme. However, it is the lyrics from Bugsy Malone that aptly sum up his philosophy: “You give a little love and it all comes back to you; You’re gonna’ be remembered for the things that you say and do”. As a devoted husband to writer Mariana Williams and proud father, Paul considers his son Cole, and daughter Sarah, to be his best work.
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[@harveybrownstone7840]

This very intimate and revealing conversation with Paul Williams is among my all-time favorite episodes of our show. There were moments of pure magic, when he opened up his heart so fully, and revealed such vulnerability, that I wanted to leap right into the screen and give him a big hug. A deep bond of friendship was created during this interview - and that’s extremely rare. Thank you so much Paul, for being the amazing human being you are, and for giving me the interview of a lifetime.

[@user-rp6ic8of5w]

"Like a rose, under the April snow, I was always certain love would grow". One of the best lyrics ever written!!! Bravo and thank you Paul!

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

He is a genius.

[@rhd123]

What am I going to do with myself when I catch up on all these phenomenal interviews?! What a fantastic walk down memory lane, I've always had an appreciation for Paul Williams and his amazing talent! 👏 And congratulations on his sobriety! Incredible. ❤ Doug 🇨🇦

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Don’t worry! We’ve got lots more shows in store for you!! Thank you so much for your support.

[@alanfisher2121]

Harvey, once again it blows my mind the list of artists you and I BOTH have loved over the years. It's like you're my brother from another mother. I've loved Paul Williams for over 50 years, as a poetic lyricist, AND a moving singer. Not to mention as a sweet, witty person. So glad I discovered you, and all your interviews! ❤

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Hello brother!! I always wanted a brother!! I am so happy you are enjoying our show. Please spread the word among your friends, as we believe we deserve an even bigger audience. Thank you for your support.🙏❤️

[@timothysullivan6790]

33,000 views and 200 “likes?” C’mon peeps! Help Harvey’s algos! 🎯 Mr Brownstone gives another great talent the greatest interview.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Timothy I wish I could give you a big hug. You have no idea how much your comment means to me. Our interviews are EPIC (not very humble of me to say, but dammit, it’s the truth), and yet we just don’t get the views on KZbin that we deserve. I wish I knew why????

[@hiddengoldbook]

What a fabulous interview. You said it best Harvey, Paul Williams is a giant! This interview gives us a glimpse into his complicated and hugely talented mind and how each song is written through his life journey of recovery and awareness. He’s touched my life as I grew up. I didn’t even realize that some of my all time favorite songs were written by Mr. Williams. For me, he will always be Swan. Phantom of the Paradise was a cult film in my era and I’ve seen it dozens of times. Paul’s sensitivity is so unexpected and is so humbling. I actually teared up. The two of you really connected. Thanks to both of you for allowing us to share a part of this man’s fascinating life.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much Ella for watching, and for your beautiful comments!❤️

[@frankiedimplez9627]

Harvey my sweet, once again, you have graced, accent on ‘graced’ a beautiful exchange of positive memories and an amazing career with an iconic legend in the songwriting field, who has worked with the best in the field. A reminder to you also, that being a professional singer part time, and also, me being a retired Therapist/Counselor for almost 40 years, I have a compassion for all, and you bring out a major kindness and positive caring, and reminded Paul of his special blessings he has. So, so wonderful to sit back and enjoy this. Paul is so, so humble. An emotional interview indeed. I cried. Once again, I thank you for this beautiful journey with Paul. Harvey my friend, I absolutely love you! You, like me, are a gentleman, which sadly, we are few, and you are a gem of a man. I thoroughly enjoyed once again, another interview. Have a weekend as wonderful as you! God’s blessings to you always. Love and Kisses , Frankie 🥰✌🏼🙏💕😘🤗😘💕🍁🍂🍁🎃🍁🍂🍁💕❤️🥰💙

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

My, my, my, Frankie, where do I begin to find the words to express my gratitude to you for such beautiful feedback on this very special interview with an iconic legend? I’m so grateful that you really absorbed the emotional impact that this interview had on Paul Williams, who is indeed an extraordinarily gifted and sensitive human being. I thank you with all my heart for your appreciation of my admittedly unique interviewing style. I’m so happy that I have amassed such a loyal, appreciative and devoted viewership. God bless you!❤️❤️❤️

[@patriciawhite6820]

He writes the sweetest songs . "You and Me Against the World" is so touching to me, and Cannot listen to "Rainbow Connection" without crying. That is one of the most wistful aongs!

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

I agree 100%

[@zenithibarita8254]

Paul Williams is one of my favorite singers...i love all his songs💓💓💓

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I hope you’ll subscribe to our KZbin channel.

[@mitchlauer]

what an amazing guy. We all forget his superb artistic contributions and his generosity in making sure his collaborators are acknowledged too.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. This episode of our show is definitely one of my all time favorites!

[@philipmcdermott6956]

I love you Harvey! What an amazing interview!

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much Philip. I greatly appreciate your support. Paul remains one of my all-time favorite guests, and has become a very dear friend.

[@superamanda]

One of the most wonderful people whomever walked face of the Earth! Just an absolute lovely, insanely talented genius! So down to earth, and so fun

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

WOW what a tribute. I agree wholeheartedly. And Paul is also a very dear friend

[@superamanda]

@@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980 Paul Williams was the first celebrity to truly be humble and give back to the public by sharing his personal struggles, and addictions. Before Paul Williams celebrities would hide in shame, or their methods of recovery just seemed out of reach to the average person. Also, he’s completely unique. There’s nobody like him he’s a talented actor, one of the best song writers of the past 60 and just a real star. Thank you for having your friend on your show!

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

@superamanda he’s a beautiful human being and so incredibly talented

[@theessentials450]

I have missed Paul's unique take. So much of his music dots my life. The Muppet music especially. Thank you again, Harvey! You know your stuff and ask relevant questions, not tabloid trash...

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Your comments and kind support mean the world to me

[@officialshanestanley]

Such an amazing interview with two of my favorite people on this planet. Well done, Unka Paulie, and bravo Harvey. xxoo

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much Shane for watching. You are one of MY favorite people!!

[@mariacuachon3906]

..."that's enough for me... that's all the hero I need be..." Oh these lines take me back to the most positive times of my emotional growth 💋👏

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I hope you’ll subscribe to our KZbin channel.

[@mariacuachon3906]

Paul W. Is my fave of all time!😘 I grew up emotionally to his songs👍 God bless idol!🙏

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I hope you’ll subscribe to our KZbin channel.

[@canadianstudmuffin]

Beautiful interview. ❤

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much. That is music to my ears! I have the most supportive and loyal viewers ever!!!🙏❤️

[@slaphead8835]

What an incredibly talented human being. I was so happy to see Paul Williams as your interview subject. His accomplishments are under appreciated. I, for one, was always aware of his tremendous cultural history.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

I’m so glad you enjoyed this very special episode of our show. I absolutely adore Paul, and there were moments of real magic during this interview. He’s become a dear friend. Thank you so much for watching our show.

[@robertspence5071]

"I don't know how much I last paid my therapist Harvey, but do you mind if I send you a cheque". That line by Paul Williams during Harvey's interview, illustrates more than anything how effectively Harvey was able to get way way below the veneer of this amazing artist. Paul is a true giant - small in stature, but enormous in talent. He has written so many songs including one of my favourties - You and Me Against the World, sung by Helen Reddy. But perhaps the most riveting aspect of this interview was that he allowed Harvey to ask questions and speak to him on such a personal and intimate level, shedding light not only his genius but also on his frailties. For anyone who loves music and who wants to know more about how Paul conquered his terrible life-altering addiction, I highly recommend this interview.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching and for your very kind comments about my interviewing style. I greatly appreciate it.

[@melanielaranjo9515]

Harvey Paul Williams is great singer ever he very very good singers

[@stuartwray6175]

Harvey Paul Williams ... he very very good singers. Lol

[@jimk85]

No words. Just listen.

[@mariekelly985]

Respectful, in-depth and well-researched interview - kudos to Harvey. Definitely one of the best interviews with Paul Williams that I've seen. A treat to listen to Paul's lifetime of recollections; he's truly a master songwriter, brilliant lyricist, and fine actor. And I learned things I hadn't known, always a plus. I'm also a fan of POTP (and, of course, his delightfully evil portrayal of the character Swan), as well as his role as Gunther Fry in The Loved One (such a under-rated but fabulous dark satire), Virgil in Battle Planet Apes, the Butcher in Baby Driver, Goliath, etc. Over the years, although I have enjoyed his many witty retorts, humour, ready smile, and obvious charm -- learning in the interview of his experiences @ 9 yrs. old, and his misery in high school, was sad and poignant, relatable to any child who fears or has been bullied by their peers. Using humour, making jokes, to defect that pain is something many can relate to -- if you can keep a bully laughing -- it's less likely they will beat on you. That, perhaps, is a truth Mr. Williams and I share.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I hope you’ll subscribe to our KZbin channel.

[@brandemour]

I am so glad to see this interview. Actually I’d like to throw out an idea. With all of the jukebox musicals going on, why not him. I’m thinking an honest look at this life without a lot of heart s and flowers. He is so honest. It would be a pleasure to write.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

I agree!!

[@christinevanderschoot3372]

So interesting! Love Streisand and Carpenter, and the muppets too, so this is a treat to view.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I hope you’ll subscribe to our KZbin channel.

[@abaloscecille522]

Nice to be around

[@hortenciaablan612]

Nice to be abeautful song

[@LWms517]

What a wonderful interview!! I grew up on Mr. Williams' music (including his appearances on The Muppet Show). He is an inspiration!

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching! Please subscribe to our KZbin channel. 🙏❤️

[@jannak9024]

Love those songs!

[@iwasanangryyoungman]

Hey let's not forget that he voiced The Penguin in Batman: The Animated Series.

[@gcmiranda747]

..how about., Save Me A Dream, Traveling Boy, and What Would They Say...😢👍🏽

[@rockstarrobinson]

Hi love this man I met him once at a meeting he’s so talented I’m not jelious love you Paul

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

And I’m not jealous that you love Paul more than me!!! Thanks for watching our show.

[@robbybobbyoh]

An interview as poignant as Paul Williams' music.

[@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980]

Thank you so much for watching. I must confess I was a bit teary-eyed at the end!

[@robbybobbyoh]

@@harveybrownstoneinterviews8980 Agreed!