Country artist and former saddle bronc rider Chancey Williams is back with a vibrant new single, “The Ballad of Uncle Don,” now available on digital streaming platforms. The song combines Williams’ signature guitar-driven melodies with his knack for storytelling, bringing to life the legendary tale of a cowboy who was “hell on boots with a cowboy’s heart.”
Praised for his ability to “wrap his pleasant baritone around a slate of honky tonk songs” (Billboard), Williams captures the rugged essence of his Uncle Don, an Oklahoma cowboy whose fearless nature and connection to horses make him a timeless figure in western lore.
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The Inspiration Behind the Song
In a recent interview with Cowboys & Indians, Williams explained the unique magic that cowboys like his uncle possess.
“You’ve heard stories about horse whisperers, but in my eyes, they are the horse whisperers. There’s some sort of magic there. Their fear of horses is zero. And that’s probably what makes ’em as cowboy as they are.”
Williams added that the song’s authenticity stems from its deeply personal nature.
“I write a lot about cowboys and the western lifestyle, and it is important to me that it all be authentic. I think people who know me and my music would see right through it any other way. But this one is unique because it isn’t just a composite of things I’ve seen or experiences I have had—it is literally my Uncle Don’s first-hand account of one of the best cowboy stories I’ve ever heard, told by one of the best cowboys I’ve ever known.”
A Year of Memorable Music
“The Ballad of Uncle Don” continues a streak of standout releases from Williams. His September single, “Adiós,” offers an upbeat twist on the heartbreak narrative with playful lyrics like, “Well, I’m good with goodbye. As long as it comes with a bottle, a little salt and lime.”
Earlier in 2024, Williams released “One Bad Mutha Buckaroo,” a honky-tonk anthem that offers a lighthearted glimpse into the life of a whiskey-loving, truck-bed-sleeping cowboy and his blue-eyed border collie.
Career Highlights and Momentum
The past year marked significant milestones for the Wyoming native. Williams debuted at the prestigious Grand Ole Opry in April, performed at Nashville’s CMA Music Festival in June, and opened for stars like Parker McCollum and Ian Munsick. In December, he capped off 2024 with a performance at the National Finals Rodeo and a show at The Chelsea in Las Vegas’ Cosmopolitan Hotel.
Chancey Williams continues to blaze his trail in the country music scene, blending his authentic western roots with undeniable musical talent.
Catch “The Ballad of Uncle Don” on all streaming platforms today, and stay tuned for more from this rising star in country music.
