Country singer Don Williams has died, his publicist said Friday.
The Floydada, Texas-born singer-songwriter reportedly passed away after a short illness.
The 78-year-old “Gentle Giant ” Texas native began his music career in the 1960s, but went solo in 1971.
TMZ reports that Williams had 17 number one country hits … including “You’re My Best Friend” and “Tulsa Time.” His biggest hit came in 1981 — “I Believe in You” reached the top of the country charts and #24 on the Hot 100.
Williams briefly retired in 2006, but made a return to touring in 2010 … the same year he was inducted into the HOF. He played his final show in 2016, TMZ further noted.