Question 1

True or false: 'Lean on Me' was inspired by his childhood in a small West Virginia mining town.

Accepted Answer

True. Growing up in Slab Fork, a close-knit mining community, inspired the song's themes of mutual support.

Question 2

True or false: Bill Withers worked as a janitor while recording his debut album.

Accepted Answer

True. He was employed at a factory assembling toilets and later as a janitor, even after signing with Sussex Records.

Question 3

True or false: He won a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1972.

Accepted Answer

True. Withers won Best New Artist at the 15th Grammy Awards, beating out America and Loggins & Messina.

Question 4

True or false: Bill Withers wrote 'Ain't No Sunshine' after a breakup with his high school sweetheart.

Accepted Answer

False. The song was actually written after watching the film 'Days of Wine and Roses'; it wasn't based on a personal breakup.

Question 5

True or false: He retired from music in 1985 because of a bitter feud with his record label.

Accepted Answer

False. He quit largely due to frustration with the music industry's commercial pressures, not a specific feud.

Question 6

True or false: Bill Withers never learned to read or write music.

Accepted Answer

True. He was self-taught and played by ear, relying on his natural talent rather than formal training.

Question 7

True or false: Bill Withers refused to perform 'Lean on Me' at his concerts after the 1980s.

Accepted Answer

False. He continued performing it regularly; the claim likely stems from his general dislike of repeating hits.

Question 8

True or false: 'Lovely Day' was written as a love song for his first wife.

Accepted Answer

False. It was actually written for his daughter, Kori, not a romantic partner.

Bill Withers Trivia Questions