Don Williams' Never-Before-Heard Album Released
(The GreenRoom) The legacy of Country music's "Gentle Giant," Don Williams, continues today with the release of Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes via Craft Recordings. Both a tribute and a remarkable archival discovery, the 12-track set gathers previously unheard recordings found in the cellar of the Williams family's rural Tennessee home, dating back to his celebrated 1979-1984 era. The full album is available now on digital platforms, CD, and vinyl. Order or stream here
Produced by Williams' longtime co-producer Garth Fundis, who worked alongside him for more than four decades, and executive produced by Williams' son, Tim Williams, Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes captures the warm, soothing baritone and understated charm that fans have long loved in his music. Early singles from the collection offered a first glimpse into that world, including "Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight" ("features Williams bringing his classic unpretentious, graceful vocals to the cinematic tale," hails Billboard), "I'm The One (Alternate Version)" ("with the gentle, undulating strum of the acoustic guitar complementing the country icon's warm drawl," praises Holler), and "How Can I Miss What I Never Had." Available now in its entirety, fans can hear unreleased gems like "You Came True," which further showcases the tender intimacy of Williams' delivery.
Looking back on the original sessions, Fundis recalls, "Don liked every one of these songs. I remember recording all of them, too. He was very particular about the songs he recorded... I think he'd be really proud of this record."
Don Williams' Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes Tracklist
1. "Try Me Again"
2. "You Came True"
3. "I'm The One (Alternate Version)"
4. "Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight"
5. "I Wish I Was Crazy Again"
6. "I'm In Love For My Last Time"
7. "Spinning Around"
8. "A Matter Of Time"
9. "I'm The One (Original Version)"
10. "How Can I Miss What I Never Had"
11. "Goldy's Gone From Golden"
12. "Growing On Me"
The story behind Epilogue: The Cellar Tapes is as compelling as the music itself. Despite being stored away for more than 30 years, the cellar tapes were found to be in workable condition, though they required extensive restoration. Many of the multitrack elements had deteriorated, requiring musical parts to be carefully reconstructed. Fortunately, Williams' original vocals remained intact across the recordings, anchoring the project in his original performances. To complete the collection, Fundis and Tim recruited musicians who toured with Williams to help reassemble the missing parts of his signature sound. At its core is the understated groove of Joe Allen on bass and Kenny Malone on drums and congas. Subtle string arrangements by Charles Cochran, who's also on piano and organ, add depth and texture. Additional players feature Lloyd Green on steel guitar, alongside guitarists Jimmy Colvard, Dave Kirby, Billy Sanford, and extra contributions from Tim.
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