Country music singer and songwriter Don Williams has died.
Williams had fought a short illness, reports said. He was 78 years old.
Williams has been in Nashville, Tennessee for decades and was in the Country Music Hall of Fame. He retired in 2016.
Fans and country music stars expressed their sadness over hearing the news.
And Don Williams has passed... what a legend... this is truly a sad day for country music #RIP
— ChrisYoungMusic (@ChrisYoungMusic) September 8, 2017
What a sad day for country music. Don Williams was a legend, and for good reason. So many beautiful songs.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) September 8, 2017
Country Music has lost the great Don Williams. His family is in our thoughts. pic.twitter.com/I38IGVplCe
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) September 8, 2017
Also just hearing about the passing of Don Williams.. terrible day.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) September 8, 2017
I was saddened to hear of Don Williams passing today.His simple music, gentle voice & beautiful songs will live on forever. RIP Gentle Giant
— Ricky Skaggs (@RickySkaggs) September 8, 2017
I was saddened to hear of Don Williams passing today.His simple music, gentle voice & beautiful songs will live on forever. RIP Gentle Giant
— Ricky Skaggs (@RickySkaggs) September 8, 2017
