The Life & Music of Doc Watson

They say life is a two-way street, and there are few examples as dramatic as Doc Watson who now has a statue on King Street in Boone, just across the road from where he used to busk for change as a young man. Arthel “Doc” Watson (1923-2012) is the most famous person to come out of Watauga County, NC. Eight-time Grammy award winning guitarist, he released over 40 albums during his 50-year career. Doc’s music was an inspiration to millions around the world, and he helped preserve traditional Appalachian music songs through his recordings and live performances. Doc’s life was even more inspiring than his music. Blinded as an infant, Doc became a virtuoso guitarist, banjo player, singer, harmonica player as well as amateur electrician, carpenter, and saw miller.

As you move through your time in Boone, think about those who were here before you and whose stories still ring through the hillers and hollows. There is much to learn about Appalachia through the music of Doc Watson; there is even more to learn about being a good person in the life of Doc Watson.

Course Details
Prefix: 
UCO
Course Number: 
1200
Section Number(s) and Day/Times Taught: 
150: MWF 9:00am- 9:50am
Term: 
Fall 2025
Categories: 
The Arts
Well-Being
Instructor(s)

Willard Watson III

Willard Watson

Originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Willard moved to Boone in 2008, but his roots run deep in Watauga County. His great-grandfather and namesake, Willard Watson I, was a well-known toy carver, moonshiner, and dancer.

Willard has a Masters in Appalachian Studies with a concentration on Sustainability and a Bachelors of Science in Sustainable Development both from Appalachian State University. Since 2010 Willard has been an active member of the High Country community through volunteerism and event planning. He has worn many hats in the area with a variety of organizations such as the Doc & Rosa Lee Watson MusicFest ‘n Sugar Grove, Sustain Appalachian, Center 45 Climbing & Fitness, F.A.R.M. Cafe, High Country Local First, the Watauga Food Council, and the High Country Beer Fest. His academic and volunteer passions intersect on the topic of cultural preservation and community development through the creative arts.

He is also a member of the 2020-2022 class of the William C. Fridays Fellowship for Human Relations.

When not organizing events, Willard spends his time cooking, reading comics, playing electric bass, and spending time with his partner Lauren and their English bulldog Banksy.