Press release from Tricia Rother:
Emmy nominated chanteuse and finalist on America’s Got Talent, local celebrity Kat Williams is taking on her next challenge. After being diagnosed with Stage 5 kidney failure 4 years ago, a miracle is now taking place. A member of our community has come forward knowing her plight and donated a kidney.
The last of 31 foster children, Kat was adopted when only 5 days old by a Mother who believed miracles can happen. Kat’s first dream was to be an astronaut where reaching the stars had no limits. At age 17 after her Mom died, Kat was homeless yet able to rise up from being in the foster care system to attend college with the support of her teachers. They gave her the hope that one day, she too could have her own family and build a life. “I was open to be hurt and feel the pain, it was a beautiful experience teaching me to feel and that’s OK,” Williams said.
After much trial and tribulation including working in a correctional facility for 15 years to a meter maid, Kat built her audience while giving out parking tickets while pursuing her dream of becoming a singer and traveling the world.
Moving to Asheville in 1997 took the ultimate strength and self-reflection while becoming the most sought after singer in the region. She bares her heart and soul with each show inviting audiences in for a glimpse of this truly phenomenal resilient woman. Recognition of her talent and style got her booked all over the world opening acts for Chaka Kahn among others. Kat fills the void left by today’s artists bringing us back to the roots of Jazz, Blues, Soul, Motown, Pop with an animated style, a spirited sense of humor and that memorable laugh. Once she takes the mic, a time capsule opens bringing us back and forth to an era of greats Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, Mavis Staples & Etta James including songs from today’s artists in her repertoire. Kat’s musical philosophy “I have no competition, I can only give you the best of me” is her description of a life well lived against all odds.
Kat has worked tirelessly making a difference in the lives of many in our community especially sharing her experience with children of similar backgrounds. “I kind of bring a realistic approach to the table through entertainment and my well is their well now. Whatever I can do to help, I am here to help and serve, that’s it,” Williams said.
The transplant is being scheduled for December. Now it is our turn to make a difference in her life by giving back to others as they have given to us. Kat’s final solo show is scheduled for November 23rd at the White Horse Tavern in Black Mountain at 7 pm. Any donations can be sent to: Kat Williams c/o Unity of Blue Ridge, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills, River, NC 28759 where she performs Sunday services making the World a better place; one song at a time.
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