Education: Mathematics
Two days after graduating with a degree in mathematics, Zane Williams ('99) packed his bags and moved to Nashville to pursue a career writing and performing his unique brand of acoustical country music.
It took Williams (www.myspace.com/zanewilliams and www.zanewilliams.info) seven years of touring and performing, largely on college campuses, to find artistic success. "Hurry Home," his modern retelling of Jesus' parable of the prodigal son – and the title cut on his newest album by the same name – won the 2006 Maxell Song of the Year award in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, with a prize of $20,000.
"Audiences of all kinds have responded to the message of unconditional love and forgiveness," says Williams. "I've always been best known for my songs. It's always been the words of the songs that people have related to."
With a new focus and determination to write, Williams presses on toward his ultimate goal of using music as a means to benefit others.
He hopes to give his financial excess to refugees – many from Africa, Europe and the Middle East – residing in Nashville. His song, "Workin' Man Like You," was inspired by a refugee sponsored by Williams; his wife, Jodi (Smith '99); and a life group from his church.
"That's where my heart has always been – to make the money myself in the music business to benefit others," says Williams. "I've always been easily contented. If I have more than I need, I am happy to give it away. It always feels good to give to people."
