A Goodbye Letter To Don Williams

“What do you do, with Good Ole Boys Like Me”

‘Well you know I’m not that good at writing letters… so I gave up and decided that I’d” blog.

I just read the news of Don Williams retirement, and I’m devastated! I actually did shed a tear or two. ugh :(

I grew up in a small city called Takoradi, located on the South-western coast of Ghana, West Africa. My mother, Maafio, worked at the local market where she sold flip-flops.

Every day, after school, I would walk a few miles over to the market to go help my mother sell her goods. She worked next to a music store that would play Country Western Music from artists like Don Williams, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Marty Robins, Hank Williams and lots of the old school guys.

I grew up listening to lots of these guys. At the time, I didn’t quite understand all the lyrics, due to the accent, but there was something distinctive about that music — It was soothing.

I quickly fell in love with Don Williams. His voice and the story-telling style of his music just won me over. I learned every single one of his songs.

It was my biggest dream to meet Don Williams in person, when I got the chance — still holding out hope.

When I finally got a chance to come to the US, the first concert I ever went to was a Don Williams Concert in Manhomen, in the middle of Minnesota.

Tickets were sold out, but my friend George and I still drove all the way to the Shooting Star Casino, with the hope that we would get lucky. We did get lucky. I saw him in person! I was in awe!

When I would sing Karoake, most of my songs were all Don Williams Songs — I Believe in you, Shelter of Your Eyes, Good Fire Goin’, Back In My Younger Days.

I’m really sad right now.

The best memories I’ve had of his songs were back in Africa when my mother and I would dance to his songs in the morning before I left for school.

I’m fascinated by music that tells a story. One that makes you feel like you’re right there. One that informs, advises and makes you a better person.

That’s why I fell in love with Don. I think I may be his biggest fan alive.

Don, if you’re reading this, I’m still hoping that I get to meet you in person, and sing some tunes with you.

Great job on a Wonderful Career, Gentle Giant. Hopefully, young musicans can learn a thing or two from Good Ole Boys like You!

I updated my Facebook page in your honor!

Love you Don!

Noah Addy

Seattle, WA