Live From the Artists Den Season 1 Episode 7 Patty Griffin
- March 15, 2009
Live From the Artists Den season 1 episode 7 features critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Patty Griffin. Filmed at the Church of the Ascension in New York City, the episode showcases Griffin's soulful voice and poignant lyrics as she performs hits from her award-winning catalog.
Griffin takes the stage accompanied by a five-piece band, including pianist John Deaderick and guitarist David Pulkingham. The intimate setting of the Church of the Ascension provides the perfect backdrop for Griffin's haunting vocals as she opens the show with "Useless Desires," a song nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
Throughout the episode, Griffin performs tracks from her album "Children Running Through," including "Trapeze" and "Stay on the Ride," which showcase her ability to write songs that are both introspective and relatable. The performance of "No Bad News" provides an upbeat tempo and a gospel-inspired sound, while "Burgundy Shoes" highlights Griffin's folk roots.
One of the highlights of the show is Griffin's performance of "Heavenly Day," a song that has become a fan favorite and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Gospel Performance. The song is a beautiful ode to a perfect day spent with a loved one, and Griffin's vocals are both tender and powerful as she sings of the beauty of life's simple moments.
Griffin also showcases her versatility as an artist with a cover of "Up to the Mountain (MLK Song)," a song made famous by Kelly Clarkson on her television show "American Idol." Griffin's version of the song, which reflects on Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and the quest for social justice, is stripped down and raw, yet still manages to capture the emotion of the original.
The final song of the show, "Mary," is a fitting close to the evening's performance. Griffin's lyrics explore the universal theme of grief and the search for comfort in times of sorrow. Her voice is raw and emotional as she sings of the Virgin Mary's grief over the death of her son Jesus.
Throughout the show, Griffin's passion for her craft is evident in both her performance and her storytelling. She shares personal anecdotes about the inspiration behind her songs, offering insight into her creative process and the experiences that have shaped her music.
Overall, Live From the Artists Den season 1 episode 7 featuring Patty Griffin is a captivating and intimate performance that showcases the talents of one of America's most gifted singer-songwriters. Her emotive voice and heartfelt lyrics make for a powerful and moving evening of music.