Personal & Biographical Details
Otis Lamont Williams, better known as Otis Miles Jr., was born in Texarkana, Texas, on October 30, 1941, and relocated to Detroit at age 10. His transformational music journey laid the groundwork for his remarkable career. Williams is well known as The Temptations’ founder and lone surviving member, owning their name. He is a major figure in American music as a baritone and second tenor vocalist, songwriter, and record producer. Williams, a Detroit native, helped create a global musical movement that blended personal and ethnic sounds and narratives.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Otis Miles Jr., known as Otis Lamont Williams |
| Birth | October 30, 1941, Texarkana, Texas |
| Relocation | Moved to Detroit at age ten |
| Professional Role | Singer, songwriter, record producer, founder of The Temptations |
Career & Achievements
In 1961, Otis Williams founded The Temptations after heading The Siberians, El Domingoes, and The Distants in Detroit. He produced successes like “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.” His 1988 book was made into an NBC drama in 1998. The Broadway musical “Ain’t Too Proud,” which received 11 Tony nominations, saluted the Temptations. Williams was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and awarded an honorary doctorate from Stillman College in 2006.
| Major Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Group Formation | The Temptations in 1961 |
| Iconic Hits | “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” etc. |
| Memoir Co-authoring | “Temptations” published in 1988 |
| Musical & Awards | “Ain’t Too Proud,” Tony nominations, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame |
Net Worth & Income
Royalties, touring, song rights, and The Temptations moniker contribute to Otis Williams’ $8 million net worth in 2025. His net worth has ranged from $10–12 million, however most trustworthy publications put it around $8 million. His longevity in the music business and savvy management of the group’s brand and history earned him this money. His economic success and cultural understanding ensure that The Temptations’ legacy lives on.
| Financial Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | US $8 million (2025) |
| Income Sources | Royalties, touring, music rights, group name ownership |
| Other Estimates | Up to $10–12 million |
Family & Personal Life
Otis Williams’ personal life has been happy and difficult. The first of his three marriages, to Josephine Rogers from 1961 to 1964, produced Otis Lamont Williams, who died in a 1985 working accident. His second marriage to Ann Cain, from 1967 to 1973, produced no children. He is married to Arleata “Goldie” Carter and has a daughter, Elan Carter, a June 1994 Playboy Playmate. He was briefly engaged to Patti LaBelle in the early 1970s, but she pursued her music career. Williams’ music industry efforts are shaped by these personal experiences.
| Family Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| First Marriage | Josephine Rogers, son Otis Lamont Williams |
| Second Marriage | Ann Cain, no children |
| Third Marriage | Arleata “Goldie” Carter, daughter Elan Carter |
| Engagement | Briefly engaged to Patti LaBelle |
Recent News & Public Engagement
The rigorous grooming and etiquette training at Motown’s Artist Development Department under Maxine Powell continues to haunt Otis Williams as of April 2024. This instruction was crucial to The Temptations’ renowned performance and has shaped his performance and public participation. Williams continues to tour with the ensemble, honouring 60 years of amazing music and achievement while engaging modern audiences. His drive to maintaining the group’s greatness keeps The Temptations current in the ever-changing music scene.
| Public Engagement | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Reflection | Grooming and etiquette training under Maxine Powell |
| Current Activity | Actively touring with The Temptations |
| Legacy Preservation | Celebrating over 60 years in music |
FAQ
Who is Otis Lamont Williams?
The Temptations were founded by American singer, composer, and record producer Otis Lamont Williams.
What is Otis Williams’ estimated wealth?
His 2025 net worth is projected at $8 million.
What Temptations hits are famous?
Temptations singles include “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.”
What links him to “Ain’t Too Proud” on Broadway?
Based on Williams’ life, the musical received 11 Tony nominations.
How many times has Otis Williams married?
His three marriages produced one daughter and a deceased son.
