Felton Washington Williams Jr.: Sacred Steel Innovator and Cultural Contributor

Early Life and Education

Felton Washington Williams Jr. was born on January 3, 1934, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Felton Washington Williams Sr. and Katie Ware Williams. He pursued higher education at Henry Ford College in Dearborn, Michigan, where he earned his journeyman electrician’s license, demonstrating both technical expertise and a dedication to craftsmanship.

Musical Contributions and Innovation

A devoted member of the Jewell Dominion Church of the Living God, Williams began playing the Hawaiian lap steel and Spanish guitar in the mid-1940s, refining his skills and deepening his contributions to the church’s musical tradition. His commitment to preserving and advancing sacred steel music led him to establish his own custom recording studio in 1969, where he founded the Revival record label, providing a platform for artists within the genre.

Recognition and Legacy

Williams' contributions were formally acknowledged with the Legends Award at the 2009 Sacred Strings Showcase concert in Toledo, Ohio, followed by his induction into the Sacred Strings Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2013, he further cemented his legacy by donating his first handmade double-neck console lap steel guitar to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, ensuring the preservation of his craftsmanship for future generations.

Passing and Enduring Influence

Felton Washington Williams Jr. passed away on March 11, 2012, and was laid to rest in Detroit Memorial Park West Cemetery. His contributions to the sacred steel tradition remain influential, inspiring musicians and ensuring his place as a pioneering force in gospel and steel guitar music.