Don Williams at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium (Spartanburg, SC – Jan. 14, 2015)

There are few American classics these days, but Don Williams is certainly one of them. With a warm hickory baritone that balances strength with a gentle concern, he draws his listener into the intimate world of an old friend, someone who cares deeply about you and the quality of your life…and who will always offer a hand when you need it.

I remember as a child listening to country radio all the time around the house. My mother would have it on as she cleaned our home on Lemonade Road or my father would have it on his proud Toyota pickup truck. One of the guys who stuck out even as a small child back then was Don Williams. His voice stood out amongst others and his songs were timeless. I recently got to see the Gentle Giant live in my home town of Spartanburg South Carolina. This was the first time I have seen a concert at the historical Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium since the remodeling a few years ago. I was delightfully impressed with the friendly staff as well how nice the venue was. The acoustics were making quite a joyful noise as  a young man from Ireland opened for the country music hall of famer. Then it happened Don sang for about a hour and half, spoke very little and played all the hits with his pure vocals such as Some Broken Hearts Never Mend, You’re My Best Friend, Tulsa Time, Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good.

Always, great to witness one of the artists whom you grew up listening to and  sounding just as good as the same day you first heard him. Beautiful venue with no fireworks, flashy lights, or smoke machines were needed. It was pure and honest in my hometown in a legendary venue that sounds excellent. A big ole thank you to the great staff at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium for being so kind to us on this most memorable evening.

all photography was done by Derik Vanderford

http://www.don-williams.com/

http://www.crowdpleaser.com/