David Holt's State of Music Season 1 Episode 2 Bryan Sutton and Rhiannon Giddens

David Holt's State of Music is a musical series that takes viewers on a journey through the heart of American folk and roots music. The second episode of season one focuses on the talented musicians Bryan Sutton and Rhiannon Giddens.

Bryan Sutton is a Grammy Award-winning guitarist and one of the most accomplished acoustic musicians of his generation. He is known for his dynamic flatpicking style and has performed with many of the biggest names in bluegrass, including Dolly Parton and Ricky Skaggs. Bryan shares his story and showcases his remarkable skills in this episode.

Rhiannon Giddens is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who is passionate about exploring the diverse musical traditions of the American South. She began her career as a member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a string band that specializes in traditional African American music. In this episode, Rhiannon performs some of her original songs and talks about the important role that music has played in her life.

Throughout the episode, David Holt provides insightful commentary and engages the musicians in conversation about their lives and careers. He also accompanies them on harmonica and other instruments, adding his own unique touch to the music.

The episode begins with Bryan Sutton playing an upbeat instrumental song on his guitar. He shares his love for music and talks about his early influences, including his father, who played mandolin and guitar. Bryan grew up in western North Carolina, a region with a rich tradition of old-time and bluegrass music. He recalls attending local festivals and concerts and being inspired by the great musicians he saw on stage.

Next, David Holt and Bryan Sutton play a duet on harmonica and guitar. They discuss the importance of improvisation in bluegrass music and how it allows musicians to express themselves creatively and connect with their audience.

Later in the episode, Rhiannon Giddens performs two of her original songs, accompanied by Bryan Sutton on guitar. She talks about her love for storytelling and how traditional music provides a window into the lives and experiences of people from all walks of life. Rhiannon's powerful voice and evocative lyrics make for a mesmerizing performance.

David Holt and Rhiannon Giddens also collaborate on a duet, performing a haunting rendition of the spiritual song "Wayfaring Stranger." They talk about the history of the song and how it has been passed down through generations of musicians.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning performances by both Bryan Sutton and Rhiannon Giddens, as well as a deeper understanding of the music that has shaped their lives. David Holt's State of Music is a must-watch for anyone who loves folk and roots music and wants to learn more about the artists who are keeping those traditions alive today.