Country star Hilary Williams embodies the true meaning of strength and perseverance. She survived a near-fatal car accident several years ago (where she actually died twice), and had to relearn to walk three times. Since then, the country singer/songwriter has taken that experience and used it to her advantage as she empowers others to triumph over their own personal hardships.

The daughter of country superstar Hank Williams, Jr. and granddaughter of legend Hank Williams, Sr. released her latest album “My Lucky Scars” as a tribute to her harrowing experience. The album’s opening track, “Angel Take My Hand,” as well as “Sign of Life” gives us an inside look into her challenging times.

We caught up recently with Williams to discuss how she was able to find inspiration through some of her most difficult times, how she has changed as a result and the one thing her father has taught her.

Tell us about what went into naming your latest album, “My Lucky Scars.” 

After my horrific car accident where I actually died twice, I am just very grateful to be alive. The scars all over my body are God’s saving grace. I thought it was a cool and meaningful album name. My scars are a reminder every day to serve my purpose while I am here.

How were you able to find some inspiration after all you went through? 

God, family and friends gave me the courage to carry on. I had faith; I knew there was a reason that I went through all of this and that I would come out stronger. I would pray and meditate. It was also therapeutic for me to sing and write. 

Photo Credit: Jim Wright

Can you talk a little bit about the song “Sign of Life?” 

When I was in the hospital recovering from the accident, I told the doctor I was in so much pain and he said, “Hilary, pain is a sign of life.” That was so powerful to me and it’s so true, I didn’t complain about pain again as I was just so thankful to be alive. When I was still laid up in a hospital bed, in my mother’s living room not being able to walk, I really didn’t want to do anything but a friend of mine encouraged me to be writing. A talented writer in Nashville, named Blu Sanders, came over and we wrote that song from my hospital bed.

How has the accident changed you? 

I don’t sweat the small stuff, when you go through something as catastrophic as that and come out the other side alive, it changes your view of the world. I hope I can be an inspiration to others and show them that you can recover and come back from even the worst and hardest moments. 

You come from a talented musical family.  Who have been some of your biggest influences?

Of course, my dad and grandpa were huge influences, especially in the way that I write, as a family we pull from past experiences that have shaped us.  There are so many amazing other artists that have inspired me along the way such as; The Beatles, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Nicks, Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow, Joni Mitchell, Jewel, to name a few. 

What would you say has been the biggest thing your father has taught you?

He has never tried to force any career path on any of us, there was never an expectation to follow in his footsteps and be a musician. He (and my mom) always encouraged me to just to be myself and don’t try to please anyone. Follow my heart.  

What’s up next for you? 

Writing, recording and performing. An artist’s perfect trifecta.