Introduction
An Interview with William Lee Golden from the Oak Ridge Boys – 8/14/25
On a warm August afternoon in Nashville, William Lee Golden sat down to reflect on a journey that has spanned more than half a century. With his signature flowing beard and gentle presence, Golden—the baritone anchor of the Oak Ridge Boys—spoke with humility, humor, and a deep sense of gratitude about the group’s American Made Farewell Tour and his life in music.
Q: William, the Oak Ridge Boys are in the middle of their extended farewell tour. How does it feel to be taking this final bow?
Golden smiled softly before answering. “Bittersweet,” he said. “We’ve been together for decades, singing our way through life. Every night, when we walk out on stage, we feel the energy of the fans. But we also know these moments won’t last forever. It’s a celebration, but it’s also goodbye. And that’s hard.”
Q: You’ve been part of the Oak Ridge Boys since the 1960s. What stands out to you most when you look back?
“Brotherhood,” he answered without hesitation. “The four of us—Duane, Joe, Richard, and myself—we’ve been through everything together. Hits, struggles, tours, personal losses. Music brought us together, but friendship kept us going. That’s the legacy I’m proudest of: the bond we’ve shared.”
Q: The group is famous for songs like ‘Elvira’ and ‘American Made.’ Do you have a favorite to perform?
Golden chuckled. “It’s hard to pick just one. ‘Elvira’ always gets the crowd moving—you can feel the joy bouncing off the walls. But personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for the gospel numbers. When we sing something like ‘Farther Along’ or ‘Amazing Grace,’ you can hear the audience go quiet, and you know the music is touching their hearts. That’s powerful.”
Q: Your look—long hair and beard—has become iconic. Did you ever imagine it would be part of your identity in the group?
He laughed. “I didn’t plan on being the ‘bearded guy’ of country music! But it became part of who I am. Fans tell me they can spot me from the back row, and I guess that’s a blessing. More importantly, it reminds me to stay authentic. I’ve always believed music should be about truth, and I try to carry that in my life.”
Q: As you look beyond the farewell tour, what’s next for you personally?
Golden leaned back thoughtfully. “Family. My kids, my grandkids—they’re my greatest joy. I’ve also got side projects with my boys, and we love making music together. I don’t think I’ll ever stop singing, but I will be slowing down, enjoying the simple things, and giving thanks for the journey I’ve had.”
Before the interview ended, Golden offered a final thought. “The Oak Ridge Boys were never just about us. We were about the fans—the people who let our music into their lives. If we’ve brought comfort, joy, or just a smile, then we’ve done our job. And that, to me, is the greatest reward.”