The Clarence Williams Orchestra was a prominent jazz ensemble led by Clarence Williams, a multifaceted figure in early jazz history. Born in Plaquemine, Louisiana, in either 1893 or 1898, Williams was deeply rooted in the New Orleans jazz scene. He was a pianist, composer, arranger, and publisher, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and significant contributions to the music industry.

Williams began his career in entertainment at a young age, joining minstrel shows and later working in New Orleans' vibrant Storyville district. He was a key figure in the development of jazz, collaborating with notable artists such as Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Bessie Smith. His orchestra, often referred to as "Clarence Williams' Jazz Kings" or "Clarence Williams' Blue Five," was known for its hot jazz and blues recordings, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s.

In addition to his work as a bandleader, Williams was a pioneering music publisher, co-founding a publishing company with Armand J. Piron. He was instrumental in bringing African American music to a broader audience, working with record labels like Okeh and Columbia. Williams was also known for his collaborations with his wife, blues singer Eva Taylor, and for hosting gatherings that attracted figures from the Harlem Renaissance.

Clarence Williams' compositions, such as "Royal Garden Blues" and "Baby, Won't You Please Come Home," have become jazz standards. His influence extended beyond performance; he played a crucial role in the careers of many artists and the dissemination of jazz music. Williams passed away in Queens, New York, on November 6, 1965, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of jazz.