Don Williams was never the kind of artist to chase controversy or fame. Known for his calm demeanor and comforting voice, he built a legacy on sincerity and simplicity. But behind the scenes, even legends have doubts. And there was one song in particular that Don Williams quietly struggled with—despite the fact that it would eventually become one of the defining songs of his career.
A Song That Didn’t Sit Right—At First
In interviews, Don Williams rarely criticized his own work. But those close to him knew that he had a complicated relationship with one of his biggest hits: “Tulsa Time.”
Written by Danny Flowers, “Tulsa Time” was upbeat, catchy, and far more rhythmic than most of Don’s typical ballads. When he first recorded it in the late '70s, Don reportedly expressed hesitation—not because the song lacked quality, but because he felt it didn’t fully represent the emotional depth he was known for.
To Don, “Tulsa Time” felt like a departure from his signature style. It wasn’t reflective. It wasn’t tender. It was fun—and that’s what bothered him. He worried it might feel shallow compared to the heartfelt ballads his fans had come to love.
“It Just Didn’t Feel Like Me”
In a 1990s radio interview, Don subtly admitted:
“Some songs are hits, but they don’t always speak to your soul the way others do.”
Many believe he was referring to “Tulsa Time.” While the crowd loved it—and it topped the country charts in 1978—Don never truly embraced it as his own. He rarely performed it live without a shrug or a smile that seemed to say, “I know you like it, but it’s not my favorite.”
The Ironic Twist
Ironically, “Tulsa Time” became one of Don Williams’ most successful songs. It helped him reach new audiences, broaden his appeal, and even earned covers by other major artists like Eric Clapton. The song played on jukeboxes, at honky-tonks, and on radios around the world. It made Don Williams a legend in circles beyond traditional country music.
But deep down, he still carried that quiet regret—that it wasn’t a song he would have written himself.
The Burden of Success
Artists often wrestle with the difference between commercial success and personal truth. For Don Williams, “Tulsa Time” was a reminder that sometimes, a song you’re unsure about can open doors you never planned to walk through.
He didn’t hate the song. He respected it. He just didn’t love it the way fans did—and that, in itself, is the most human part of this story.
A Gentle Giant’s Honest Doubt
Don Williams will always be remembered for his gentle voice, his timeless ballads, and his humble nature. “Tulsa Time” may not have been the song he was proudest of—but it was part of his journey. A reminder that even legends have moments of doubt, and that sometimes, the songs we’re unsure of are the ones that make history.