Bill Withers

American Bill Withers is one of the legends of soul. He was mainly active from 1970 to 1985. Among his most celebrated songs are “Lean On Me”, “Ain’t No Sunshine”, “Use Me”, “Just The Two Of Us”, “Lovely Day” and “Grandma’s Hands”.

Bill Withers, born William Harrison Withers Jr., was born on July 4, 1938 in Slab Fork, a small mining town in West Virginia. Raised in a humble family, he found his way into music despite starting later than most artists. Before embarking on his musical career, he served in the US Navy and worked as a laborer in various factories.

In 1971, at the age of 33, Withers released his debut album, “Just As I Am”, which included the famous track “Ain’t No Sunshine”, one of the most iconic songs of his career. This success quickly brought him to prominence, cementing his unique style, marked by direct lyrics and enveloping soul melodies.

The following year he released “Still Bill”, which featured another of his great classics, “Lean On Me”, an anthem of brotherhood and resilience that became a cornerstone of American music. The same album also produced “Use Me”, a song with an irresistible groove that confirmed his skill in blending soul and R&B.

In the years that followed, Withers kept churning out hits, including “Lovely Day”, featured on the album “Menagerie” (1977), with its iconic sustained note, and “Just The Two Of Us”, recorded in 1981 in collaboration with saxophonist Grover Washington Jr.

Despite his success, Bill Withers gradually distanced himself from the music industry in the 1980s, disillusioned with the dynamics of the business. His decision to retire did nothing to diminish his impact on music, and his songs continued to be loved, sampled and reinterpreted by generations of artists.

Bill Withers passed away on March 30, 2020, leaving behind a timeless musical legacy. His style, steeped in authenticity and warmth, continues to inspire musicians and listeners around the world.