Beckley, West Virginia, has long been a town that cherishes its roots, and on March 28, the city honored one of its own, music legend Bill Withers, with the grand unveiling of the Bill Withers Plaza at the Beckley Intermodal Gateway. This vibrant new space not only features a beautiful statue in his honor but also incorporates a collection of outdoor musical instruments that invite the community to join in the celebration of music and creativity.

The unveiling of the Bill Withers statue marks the culmination of years of planning and dedication from the community, spearheaded by a committee focused on ensuring Withers' legacy would live on in a meaningful and interactive way. Director of Beckley Events, Jill Moorefield, spoke passionately about how Withers’ music continues to resonate across generations, saying, “Withers means so much to our region. His songs are so iconic and live on through the years. We want to honor him, and hopefully, this will inspire youth to know they can do something special, being from here.”

A Living Tribute with Interactive Music

In addition to the statue, one of the most unique features of the Bill Withers Plaza is the inclusion of outdoor musical instruments designed to encourage spontaneous musical expression and foster community connection. The plaza is home to a series of musical playground instruments, each offering an opportunity for visitors to engage with music in an interactive way, regardless of their experience or background. Among the instruments installed are the Large Babel Drum, Handpipes, Emperor Chimes, and stainless steel Cajon Drum Circle—each one chosen for its ability to produce rich, resonant sounds that anyone can enjoy.

With its inviting design and ethereal tones, the Babel Drum encourages playful exploration, while the Handpipes offer a harmonic experience for all ages. The Emperor Chimes fill the plaza with a gentle, melodic resonance, and the stainless steel Cajon drums invite rhythm-makers to tap into the percussion-rich culture that Withers himself would have appreciated. These instruments reflect the spirit of Withers’ music—accessible, inclusive, and designed to bring people together. Whether you're tapping out a simple rhythm or composing a harmonious melody, the instruments create an environment where everyone can participate.

A Celebration of Community and Legacy

As the crowd gathered in Beckley for the statue unveiling, the air was filled with excitement and emotion. The event included a moving performance by the Beckley Stratton students, who sang "Lean On Me," one of Withers’ most beloved anthems, as the statue was revealed. Withers’ wife, Marcia, was present, as were their children and granddaughter, marking a deeply personal moment for the family and a full-circle tribute to the man whose music transcended generations. The statue, created by artist Frederick Hightower, is bronzed and will forever memorialize Withers in his hometown.

Honoring a Global Icon

Bill Withers’ impact on the music world is immeasurable. Songs like “Lean On Me” and “Ain’t No Sunshine” continue to resonate worldwide, providing comfort and hope to millions. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 and his honorary doctorate from West Virginia University in 2017 testaments his extraordinary contributions to the musical landscape.

Withers’ roots in Beckley shaped his journey, and the Bill Withers Plaza serves as a living tribute to his musical genius and his enduring connection to his hometown. The plaza is a place where both locals and visitors can gather to celebrate his legacy, share the joy of music, and create new memories together.

A Vision Realized with Community Support

The inclusion of these outdoor instruments was a key element of the vision for the Bill Withers Plaza. The committee, including Beckley’s city grant writer Angela King, worked tirelessly to ensure the project would reflect Withers’ spirit and create a space where music would be at the forefront of the experience. The community rallied behind the project, creating a plaza that blends artistic tribute with interactive enjoyment. Local support, donations, and volunteer efforts played an instrumental role in making the plaza a reality.

Looking Ahead

The Bill Withers Plaza is more than just a memorial—it's a celebration of a life that touched hearts across the globe. With the plaza’s interactive musical features, the legacy of Bill Withers is not only honored but also actively lived out by the people of Beckley. As visitors gather in this special space, they’ll be invited to make their own music, share their memories, and contribute to a community that is a testament to the power of music and unity.

The grand opening of Bill Withers Plaza is just the beginning. As the community continues to engage with the outdoor instruments and enjoy the newly unveiled statue, the plaza will remain a vibrant part of Beckley for generations to come—forever embodying the legacy of one of music's most cherished icons.