Staff Reports

If you were reared in Asheville or the surrounding area, you’ve no doubt heard the melodious voice of Asheville, N.C., native Charles “Fats Diamond” Pickens.

Music was always a part of the Pickens family, and Pic, like many black singers, began developing his voice in the church, singing Gospel. In high school he was an athletic standout, but his musical talents continued to be very prevalent. He experienced a large measure of success at a relatively early age. He began to write and record songs, and rose to international stardom as a rhythm-and blues singer.

With talent, success and family, what could go wrong? Everything: when Pic saw his dream slipping away, he spiraled downward through self-defeating patterns of behavior. Grateful Steps, Inc., an independent publisher in Asheville has published God Can Use Anyone…even me, The Charles Pickens Story by Charles Pickens and Pat McAfee.

The book tells of his return from depths of despair to an authentic and lasting success. God Can Use Anyone...even me, offers inspiration for anyone uncertain of how to find lasting joy despite life’s trials and injustices.