Don Williams, Beloved Country Singer and Songwriter, Dies at 78
Alabama — Don Williams, the Grammy-winning country singer and Nashville songwriter best known for his 1981 hit ballad “I Believe in You,” has died at his home in Alabama at the age of 78. Known as the “Gentle Giant” for his warm baritone voice and calm stage presence, Williams leaves behind a legacy that shaped the sound of modern country music and touched fans around the world.
Born on May 27, 1939, in Floydada, Texas, and raised in Portland, Williams grew up surrounded by music. His early career began in folk, performing with The Pozo-Seco Singers during the 1960s. By the early 1970s, he had moved to Nashville, where his understated singing style and deeply relatable songs quickly set him apart from other country performers of the time.
Williams rose to fame with a string of hits that emphasized sincerity and simplicity over flash. His catalog includes classics such as “Tulsa Time,” “Good Ole Boys Like Me,” “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good,” and “Amanda.” However, it was “I Believe in You,” released in 1980, that became his signature song. The single topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, crossed into the pop charts, and solidified Williams’ reputation as an artist who could bridge genres with ease.
Throughout his career, Williams released more than 30 studio albums and charted 17 No. 1 singles. His music resonated not only in the United States but also internationally, with a particularly strong following in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Fans across the globe were drawn to the honesty in his songs — simple truths about love, faith, and everyday life, delivered with a soothing, conversational tone.
In 1978, Williams was named the Country Music Association’s Male Vocalist of the Year, and he won a Grammy Award in 1979 for “Tulsa Time.” His induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010 was recognition of his enduring influence on the genre. Fellow musicians have long praised his artistry; Eric Clapton recorded his song “We’re More Than Friends,” while artists like Alan Jackson, Keith Urban, and Vince Gill often cite him as a guiding influence.
Williams’ appeal stemmed from his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he rarely sought the spotlight. Instead, he let his music speak for itself, exuding a quiet dignity that earned him lifelong admiration from fans and peers alike. His shows were known for being unpretentious and heartfelt, with his mellow voice carrying through intimate concert halls and large arenas alike.
In 2016, Williams retired from touring, citing health reasons after more than four decades on the road. His decision came as a disappointment to fans but also a reflection of his grounded approach to life and career. Just a year later, on September 8, 2017, his death was confirmed, marking the end of an era for traditional country music.
Tributes poured in from across the music community. “Don Williams’ voice was like an old friend,” Alan Jackson once said, echoing the feelings of countless fans. Keith Urban described him as “a true gentleman whose songs will live forever.” For many listeners, Williams’ music formed the soundtrack of their lives, accompanying moments of joy, loss, and quiet reflection.
Don Williams is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Joy, and their two sons. As the country music world mourns his passing, his songs remain a testament to his gentle spirit and his gift for storytelling.