47 minutes ago

LOS ANGELES - The Society of Singers has picked “Moon River” singer Andy Williams to receive its 17th Ella Award for singers whose musical accomplishments are equaled by their humanitarian efforts.

The Ella Award, named after its first recipient Ella Fitzgerald, has gone previously to Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne, Tony Bennett, Placido Domingo, Elton John and others.

The 80-year-old Williams, who earned 18 gold and three platinum albums in his career and hosted a popular TV variety series in the 1960s, will be given the award during a May 19 gala at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

“I’m tremendously honored to have my name placed alongside the previous winners,” Williams said.

The Society of Singers was founded in 1984. With help from sponsors, it offers emergency financial help for singers and awards scholarships.

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