Wilburn Steven "Bill" Rice (April 19, 1939 – October 28, 2023) was a distinguished American country music singer and songwriter, renowned for his prolific songwriting career. Born in Datto, Arkansas, Rice began playing guitar at the age of 14, influenced by his mother who taught him a few chords. His early musical career was marked by a significant breakthrough when Elvis Presley recorded his song "Girl Next Door Went A-Walking" in 1960.

Rice's most notable contribution to the music industry was his songwriting partnership with Jerry Foster. The duo penned numerous hits for a variety of artists, including Charley Pride, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Paycheck. Their collaboration resulted in several chart-topping songs, such as "Would You Take Another Chance on Me?" and "Wonder Could I Live There Anymore." Rice and Foster's songwriting prowess earned them multiple awards, including an unprecedented 10 ASCAP Country Awards in 1972, and they were inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1994.

In addition to his songwriting success, Rice pursued a recording career in the 1970s, charting six singles, with "Travelin' Minstrel Man" reaching the Top 40. Despite his moderate success as a singer, his legacy was firmly established through his songwriting achievements. Rice also formed a successful songwriting partnership with his then-wife, Sharon Vaughn, contributing to hits like "I'm Not That Lonely Yet" by Reba McEntire.

Throughout his career, Rice received 73 awards from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), more than any other songwriter. His influence extended beyond his own work, as he mentored and supported emerging songwriters in Nashville.

Bill Rice passed away at the age of 84 in Merritt Island, Florida, leaving behind a rich legacy in country music history.