Ep 12. Gretchen Wilson / Miranda Lambert

The Austin City Limits season 31 episode 12 features performances by two powerhouse country singers: Gretchen Wilson and Miranda Lambert.

Gretchen Wilson, known for her smash hit "Redneck Woman," takes the stage first with a set of high-energy country rock tunes. She starts with "Here for the Party," a song that quickly became a country anthem when it was released in 2004, and follows it up with "All Jacked Up," the title track from her third album. Wilson's gritty vocals and rebellious attitude come through clearly in her performance, as she sings about partying, drinking, and living life on her own terms.

Next, Wilson slows things down a bit with "Don't Come Home a Drinkin' (With Lovin' on Your Mind)," a classic country song originally recorded by Loretta Lynn. Wilson puts her own spin on the tune, giving it a modern edge while still respecting the song's roots. She also shows off her soulful side with "The Long Way Home," a ballad about a woman trying to find her place in the world.

Miranda Lambert, who has become one of the most beloved and acclaimed country artists of the last decade, takes the stage next with a set of songs that spans her career. She starts off with "Kerosene," the title track from her breakthrough debut album, which features Lambert's signature blend of rock and country. The lyrics are fierce and empowering, with Lambert singing about burning down everything that reminds her of an ex-lover who did her wrong.

Lambert then plays "Dead Flowers," a ballad that showcases her ability to tell a story through song. The lyrics describe a woman who is tired of being hurt by a man and decides to leave him, even though it's painful. Lambert's performance is haunting and emotional, with just her voice and an acoustic guitar.

Next, Lambert plays "The House That Built Me," a song that became a massive hit and a fan favorite when it was released in 2010. Written by Tom Douglas and Allen Shamblin, the song tells the story of a woman who returns to her childhood home to find comfort and solace. Lambert's performance is stripped-down and heartfelt, with the lyrics hitting close to home for anyone who has ever longed for a sense of belonging.

Lambert then picks up the tempo with "Gunpowder and Lead," a song that proves she can rock just as hard as any male country artist. The lyrics are dark and intense, with Lambert singing about getting revenge on an abusive ex-partner. The crowd goes wild as Lambert shreds on her guitar and sings with all the intensity she can muster.

The show ends with Wilson and Lambert teaming up for a cover of "Good Hearted Woman," a song originally recorded by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. The two women trade verses and harmonize together, showing off their mutual respect and admiration for each other. It's a fitting end to a show that celebrates the power and diversity of women in country music.

Overall, the Austin City Limits season 31 episode 12 is a must-watch for any fan of country music, and a testament to the talents of Gretchen Wilson and Miranda Lambert.