Singer/songwriter Hilary Williams knows how to find inspiration in a tragic situation. In 2006 she experienced a devastating near-death car accident, and her new album, My Lucky Scars, follows her journey in overcoming that horrific event.

Granddaughter of Hank Williams Sr. and daughter of Hank Williams Jr., Williams is paving her own path with her first album. My Lucky Scars is pure melodic passion mixed with an undeniable optimism and sweet vocals.

My Lucky Scars was produced by Williams along with John Would (Fiona Apple, Lucinda Williams) and Lincoln Parish (Cage the Elephant).

Williams says, “I am so elated to be releasing my debut album and tell my story through music. To me, My Lucky Scars means God’s saving grace, the scars on my body are my everyday reminder that I am lucky to be alive. This album is very personal for me.”

Here we sat down with Williams to get more insight into My Lucky Scars and more.

How have your famous father and grandfather influenced your music? 

Growing up I was surrounded by music constantly, my mom told me that I used to go up to all my dad’s instruments around the house and try to play them. My father and grandfather also inspired me lyrically, all their songs were raw and told universal truths and stories, and I tried to carry that into my writing as well.

I understand this album was inspired by a horrible experience you went through. How did that affect your music and what have you learned from that experience?

The day I was in the accident, my attorney was actually in LA shopping around a record deal. So pragmatically of course that all had to be put on hold. Musically though, the accident and my recovery process inspired my song writing for the album. When you go through a trauma like that you really look for an outlet to help heal emotionally and for me, that was writing. After overcoming the initial accident and the recovery that went along with it, I realized how much stronger I am than I thought I ever was before the experience. Even if you feel like you are at your lowest point, you can really make it through anything.

You recently made your Grand Ole Opry debut. How did that event make you feel and what can you share about it?

Making my Grand Ole Opry debut was a very surreal moment for me. Walking into the circle was something I have dreamed of since I was a little girl and started to sing. I’ve seen videos of my grandpa on that stage and have been in the audience watching my dad and my sister, I couldn’t wait for my moment as well. I will never forget the audience that night.

You had a hand in the production of My Lucky Scars. How was that experience for you? 

That experience was very cathartic, being able to write about my life and road to recovery and watch the album come to life was incredible. I poured my heart and soul into this album, so to be able to have a hand in producing it as well was really important to me.


I understand that you are influenced by artists like Sheryl Crow and P.J. Harvey. How do you think your love for their music affected the music on My Lucky Scars?

I think their music was very inspirational for my album and my sound. I wouldn’t call ‘My Lucky Scars’ straight country, I think there is an additional alternative/Americana feel to it, which came from artists like Sheryl Crow, Jewel, Sarah McLachlan, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Nicks, Joni Mitchell, P.J. Harvey, Patty Griffin and so many more badass ladies.

I love Joni Mitchell’s song “River” and your version is so lovely. Why did you decide to include that on the album?

 I’ve always loved “River” and  Joni Mitchell. I have sang the song before live and I just love the honesty and vulnerability in that song.

You worked with many amazing songwriters. Do you have any stories from the writing room you can share?

One of my co-writers, Bobby Tomberlin and I were given the opportunity to finish a song that was started by the Big Bopper. He was killed in the tragic place crash that also claimed the lives of Buddy Holly and Richie Valens. The Big Bopper’s briefcase was found at the crash site and there were several unfinished lyrics.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about what’s coming up for you?

As an artist I am always constantly writing and channeling every experience into a melody. I also look forward to touring soon and playing in front of my fans, there is no feeling quite like that.

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