A Gentle Giant: In Memory of Bill Withers (July 4, 1938 – March 30, 2020)

Singer/songwriter Bill Withers passed away on March 30 from heart complications. But for 81 years prior to that, he was a genius musician, poet, songwriter and activist.

Bill Withers released his first album, ‘Just As I Am’ in 1971. Featuring such classics as ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ and ‘Grandma’s Hands’, it immediately identified Withers as an artist on par with the John Lennon, Marvin Gaye and Joni Mitchell. His next album, ‘Still Bill’, was equally amazing, giving us the classics ‘Lean On Me’ and ‘Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?’

Throughout his career, Withers would release nine studio albums, one live album, and countless collaborations with other artists (most notably ‘Just the Two of Us’ with Grover Washington Jr.). Withers was nominated for seven Grammys and won three. In 2015, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In 2009, the documentary film ‘Still Bill’, was released. It is a GREAT way to learn more about this icon and appreciate the art he gave us. If you have a Falmouth-issued card, ‘Still Bill’ is available as to stream free on Qello, through our RB digital platform. You can sign up for it on our site here-call us or email if you need help with this. 

The link to ‘Still Bill’ on Qello is here, you can access it by creating a free account with your card.

(written by Josh)