Career
Williams’ public performing career began in California in the late 1950s and continued regularly for almost 40 years, earning a reputation as a uniquely talented, raw and edgy “high lonesome” tenor singer and mandolin player who inspired countless musicians on the West Coast of the United States and well beyond. Born in Newton County, Arkansas in 1930, Williams began playing music with his family at an early age. Versions of these groups also backed up country-bluegrass legend Rose Maddox on two studio recordings and numerous personal appearances.
Vern’s impact on bluegrass music, especially in California, cannot be overstated.
His song arrangements continue to be used by numerous bluegrass artists. A videography about Vern was produced in 2004 and can be viewed at the International Bluegrass Music Museum (IBMM) in Owensboro, Kentucky.
His recordings are widely available. Vern"s last performance was as a guest on Open Road’s Lucky Drive, recorded in 2005.