William Billings (1746-1800) was an American composer, choral director, and one of the first significant figures in the development of American choral music. Primarily associated with the genres of early American choral and sacred music, he is often regarded as the "father of American choral music." Billings was a self-taught musician and a key figure in the American shape-note singing tradition. His notable works include "Chester," which became an anthem of the American Revolutionary War and is celebrated for its patriotic sentiment. Other important compositions include "When Jesus Wept" and "David's Lamentation." His music is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and accessible melodies, reflecting the spirit of the American frontier. Billings published several collections of his works, notably "The New-England Psalm-Singer" (1770), which helped establish a distinct American musical identity. Billings' impact on music lies in his role in shaping early American musical culture and his influence on subsequent generations of composers. His emphasis on communal singing and the use of indigenous themes set the stage for the development of a uniquely American sound in choral music.