NEWS

Robin, Linda Williams and group to perform free April 11 at UNC

CHAPEL HILL -- Robin and Linda Williams and Their Fine Group, a four-piece ensemble including former Red Clay Rambler Jim Watson, will perform a free public concert at noon Thursday (April 11) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The concert will be on the Education Foundation Terrace of UNC’s James M. Johnston Center for Undergraduate Excellence in the Graham Memorial Building. Sponsors are the center and UNC’s music department and folklore curriculum.

"The Williamses have thrilled folk, bluegrass, and country audiences throughout America for more than 25 years," said Dr. Randi Davenport, the center’s associate director. "Their music reaches deep into American traditions, encompassing the very best in country music."

The Williamses have appeared frequently on "A Prairie Home Companion," "The American Radio Company," "Austin City Limits" and "The Grand Old Opry." Billboard Magazine credited them with "beautifully crafted songs and sweet, sailing harmonies… Every song is memorable."

A New York Times reviewer said, "Vocally and instrumentally, the Williamses combine impeccable musical discipline with a bare simplicity and utter lack of pretension." David McCarty of Bluegrass Unlimited wrote, "This is the real deal, the kind of heartfelt, genuine musical performance that built the foundation of all country and bluegrass music decades ago yet remains timeless and appealing across the ages."

The Williamses’ February 2002 release, "Visions of Love," produced by Garrison Keillor of "A Prairie Home Companion," includes classic country favorites with the Williamses’ vocals, harmonies and accompaniment. Songs by Hank Williams, Merle Haggard and Jimmie Rodgers are featured, plus some of the Williamses’ own compositions.

Their 1995 album "Good News" was nominated as the Best Gospel Album of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. "Sugar for Sugar" (1996) stayed on the Americana Top Ten Chart for 13 weeks. "Devil of a Dream" (1998) peaked at No. 7.

"From their 1989 debut with Sugar Hill Records to ‘Visions,’ their 16th recording, the Williamses’ trademark has been outstanding vocal harmonies and tight musicianship," Davenport said. "They are prized for their exploration of deeply rooted American music, combined with their lively wit and memorable melodies."

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Contact: Dr. Randi Davenport, (919) 843-7765, rdavenpo@email.unc.edu