Don Williams: The Gentle Giant

My favorite country music singer, Don Williams, whose amazing voice powered such great country hits as "Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good" and "Till The Rivers All Run Dry," has announced his retirement, according to a news release from his publicist. In early February, the Gentle Giant, who is age 76, was forced to postpone his 2016 tour following unexpected hip replacement surgery.

After seven years with the folk-pop group Pozo-Seco Singers, Don Williams began his solo career in 1971, singing popular ballads and amassing 17 number one country & western hits. His straightforward yet smooth bass-baritone voice, soft tones, and imposing build earned him the nickname: "Gentle Giant."

Don Williams was one of my dad's favorite singers, and mine too. At age 13, I would occasionally perform with dad at country clubs and private parties. We played cover tunes and Don Williams was always on the list. The song I remember playing most was 'We Should Be Together,' which is at the top of my all-time favorite songs list.

Here is a partial list of Don Williams' discography :

I Believe In You, Lord I Hope This Day Is Good, I'm Just A Country Boy, You're My Best Friend, Tulsa Time, Some Broken Hearts Never Mend, Love Me Tonight, Till the Rivers All Run Dry, It Must Be Love, Amanda, We Should Be Together, I've Been Loved By The Best, Love Is On A Roll, If Hollywood Don't Need You, I Wouldn't Want to Live If You Didn't Love Me, Nobody But You and Desperately.

Don Williams was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010.