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Mars Williams (Steve Jennings/Getty Images)

Mars Williams (1955–2023), saxophonist for the Psychedelic Furs

by Eric San Juan

Mars Williams was a rock and jazz saxophonist who played for the Psychedelic Furs and on the modern holiday classic “Christmas Wrapping” by the Waitresses. 

Mars Williams’ legacy 

Born in Elmhurst, Illinois, Williams’ father was a trumpet player who exposed him to Dixieland jazz and swing music at an early age. He played the clarinet for a time before moving to the saxophone. He studied at DePaul University and the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians, honing his chops as a conductor and arranger. 

Williams was best known for his work in rock music, but he was equally adept at jazz and the blues. He co-founded the acid jazz pioneers Liquid Soul, touring with them and groups like Hal Russell’s NRG Ensemble, and he was a mainstay on Chicago’s improv scene. 

Williams’ mainstream work included many years playing saxophone for classic post-punk band the Psychedelic Furs, first as a touring musician, then as a full-time band member. He was also a member of the new wave group the Waitresses, known for their modern holiday classic, “Christmas Wrapping.” Williams also toured with such artists as Billy Idol, Ministry, Billy Squier, and many others. All told, he appeared on dozens of albums over the course of his career. 

Tributes to Mars Williams 

Full obituary: Chicago Tribune

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