Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight to Feature Bill Anderson

Bill Anderson began his country music career as a song writer and DJ. He was born in Columbia, South Carolina November 1, 1937, his given name James William Anderson III. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in Journalism.

At age nineteen, he composed the country classic, “City Lights,” for Ray Price. His compositions were recorded by Porter Wagoner, Kitty Wells, Faron Young and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Anderson is also a popular singer earning the nickname “Whisperin’ Bill Anderson.” It was 1963, a song simply titled “Still” became a number one country hit staying at the top spot for seven weeks. The song crossed over to the pop chart becoming a top ten hit at number eight.

Anderson had his own television show in the 1960’s. He also hosted game shows, “The Better Sex” with co-host Sarah Purcell in 1977 and a country music quiz show titled “Fandango” from 1983-1989 on the Nashville Network. He’s been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1961. He also had an acting career appearing for three years on ABC TV’s daytime soap “One Life to Live.” He also hosted a show on Sirius XM radio entitled “Bill Anderson Visits with the Legends.”

Anderson was married twice and divorced twice, his last divorce was in 2010. Anderson turns 80 in November this year and still does occasional appearances.

Hear the music of this legendary country music star at 11 am on Sunday September 3^rd on the Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight. The Country Classic Show begins at 9 am on 8.1 FM Minnesota’s New Country, online or download the 98.1 mobile app.