Jim Williamson, a prolific Nashville sound engineer and recording studio owner, died Thursday, Jan. 20, at his Nashville-area home.
Mr. Williamson, 75, helped to shape the careers of country music icons Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Tammy Wynette, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson and others.
“He was one of the finest engineers I ever worked with in Nashville,” said Merle Haggard, who worked with Mr. Williamson for more than 10 years, fostering renowned songs like “That’s The Way Love Goes,” “Ramblin’ Fever” and “If We Make It Through December.
A veteran of the radio division of the Air Force, Mr. Williamson remained an aviation buff throughout his life. Lynn even accompanied him for a spin in a small plane they day the pair finished cutting “Coal Miner’s Daughter.”
The famed engineer never sought fame or recognition. To him, his job was to serve the artist, to capture the best performance possible. And his contributions were essential to many in the music community.
Mr. Williamson, who would have celebrated 50 years in September with wife Edith Flowers, suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
He is survived by Flowers, daughters Debbie Williamson and Suzy Pender, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. The couple also had a son, Jimmy Williamson, who is deceased.
A private service will be held for Mr. Williamson’s family. No public memorial will be held.
