Oak Ridge Boys William Lee Golden shares Michael Jackson memory

By April MacIntyre Jun 29, 2009, 2:25 GMT

Marlon Jackson,Joe Moscheo (former BMI VP),B. James Lowry (former Oak Ridge Boys guitarist), William Lee Golden (Oak Ridge Boys), Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Donna Jean Kisshauer (former ORB Promotion Manager), Rusty Golden (William Lee\'s son), Tito Jackson and Randy Jackson, photo courtesy of Wm. Lee Golden

The Oak Ridge Boys had numerous hits over the years, including the song Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God For Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes and many others.

The Oak Ridge Boys hosted The Jackson 5 at Nashville's Municipal Auditorium in 1981, who serenaded William Lee Golden of The Oak Ridge Boys and his sons with the Oaks’ then current number-one hit, "Elvira." 

William Lee Golden and family returned the favor, singing "Happy Birthday" to Michael Jackson, who had just turned 23 years old.  They presented Michael with a birthday cake afterwards.
 
"I took my sons to see The Jacksons at the Nashville Arena in late 1981.  It was rumored at the time that it would be their last tour together.  I love great entertainment and music of all styles and make a point to see the masters.  The Jacksons were on the top of their game that night.  They were incredible singers and dancers." 

Mr. Golden added, "Michael had an exceptional talent that shown the brightest.  Backstage I was able to meet them all.  They were very gracious.  At that time, Elvira was at the top of the Pop charts and to my surprise they sung Elvira to me and my sons.  It was an evening we will never forget.  I was amazed to watch him over the years as he accomplished even higher achievements and became one of the world's greatest entertainers.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family," shared Mr. Golden.
 
William Lee Golden was interviewed by Nashville's WKRN-News 2, "It’s a terrible loss to the entertainment world.  Michael – all the Jackson 5 were great – but Michael kind of stood out as a fantastic talent. He had the whole ball of wax -- Not only a great voice, but the ability, flexible ability, and dancing. He was a great entertainer and I respect that about him.
 
We chit-chatted for a moment about our mutual respect for the legendary James Brown. He, Jackson, had a lot of the same enthusiastic abilities and performing at the same time, I thought. He was the new generation of (James Brown)."
 
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