All Of It with Alison Stewart – Episode Summary: Patty Griffin's "Crown of Roses" Listening Party
Podcast Information:
- Title: All Of It
- Host/Author: WNYC
- Description: ALL OF IT explores culture and its consumers, engaging thinkers, doers, makers, and creators to delve into the what and why of their work. The show fosters a diverse community, celebrating varied perspectives that contribute to the cultural tapestry of New York City.
Episode Overview
In this episode of All Of It, host Ira Flatow welcomes singer-songwriter Patty Griffin to discuss her latest studio album, "Crown of Roses." The episode serves as a listening party, offering an in-depth exploration of Griffin's creative process, personal inspirations, and the profound experiences that shaped this ten-track project. Released on July 28, 2025, "Crown of Roses" marks Griffin's tenth album since her acclaimed debut Living with Ghosts.
Introduction to "Crown of Roses"
The episode opens with Isa Flatow introducing the album's title track and provides context about Griffin's illustrious career. Griffin reflects on the significance of this album being her first since her mother's passing earlier in the year at 93 years old. The album cover features her mother's wedding photo, symbolizing themes of family, love, and the interplay of politics within the musical landscape.
Notable Quote:
"The eight track project marks the 10th album since her celebrated debut Living with Ghosts, which featured the acoustic folk song about her mother's love titled 'Sweet Lorraine'."
Creative Process and Starting Over
Griffin delves into the concept of "starting over," a recurring theme in "Crown of Roses." She emphasizes the continuous nature of starting anew, stating, "Starting over keeps going until you're done... there's always something new, there's always some new challenge." This perspective is deeply influenced by her role as a caretaker for her aging mother, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required in both personal and creative realms.
Notable Quote (02:31):
"That starting over keeps going until you're done, you know what I mean? Like there's always something new, you know, there's always some new challenge."
Influences and Collaborations
Griffin discusses her collaboration with producer Craig Ross and long-time friend Bucka Allen, who contributed organ and electric piano to the album. These collaborations are rooted in decades-long relationships, underscoring the importance of trust and familiarity in her creative process.
Notable Quote (08:12):
"Bucka I've known for 25 years or so, you know, we just live in the same town, so that's kind of it."
Songwriting and Reworking Old Ideas
A significant portion of the conversation centers around Griffin's approach to songwriting, particularly revisiting and reworking older material. The song "Back at the Start" exemplifies this process, where Griffin initially discarded the song but later rediscovered and rewrote it, finding it fitting for the album's narrative.
Notable Quote (04:48):
"And I found it on my little voicemails of voice memos and thought, well, that's not so bad. But I couldn't remember the lyrics and I had to rewrite it sort of. But that's how that came about."
Themes of Resilience and Healing
Throughout the album, themes of resilience, healing, and personal growth are prevalent. Griffin draws parallels between her personal struggles—such as battling cancer and losing her voice due to radiation treatment—and her music. She highlights the therapeutic aspect of performance and the reciprocal relationship between artist and audience.
Notable Quote (15:24):
"I would go and do shows, and it's really humbling to have a relationship with an audience for 30 years. ... It just made me inspired to keep going."
The "Come Apart" Period
Griffin introduces the concept of the "come apart," a nearly two-decade period marked by personal and professional upheavals. This phase included her health challenges and the gradual rebuilding of her relationship with her mother. The "come apart" is depicted as a transformative experience that ultimately led to the creation of "Crown of Roses."
Notable Quote (12:59):
"I think I was sort of ... daydream about just blowing it all up and going and becoming a hermit for a while. ... Things just kind of blew up on me."
Musical Influences and Stylistic Choices
Griffin discusses her appreciation for gospel music and its empowering qualities, influencing tracks like "I Know a Way." She also references iconic artists such as Billie Holiday and Rick Lee Jones, whose emotive performances resonate with her own approach to conveying heartache and healing through music.
Notable Quote (12:21):
"I know a way is kind of taken from... I listen to a lot of gospel music... it kind of serves this thing inside you."
Personal Reflections and Legacy
Addressing her mother's influence, Griffin shares heartfelt insights into their relationship and her mother's understated yet profound impact. She reflects on the power of often-overlooked individuals who contribute significantly behind the scenes, akin to "engines that make a lot happen."
Notable Quote (21:28):
"She was part of that story of just. She was part of that story of just ... she was part of that story of just ... And I learned that that is the power. That is the one that I am really interested in. Listening to now."
Listening Party Highlights
The episode features live performances of tracks from "Crown of Roses," including "Back at the Start," "I Know a Way," and "Born in a Cage." These performances showcase the album's rich instrumentation and Griffin's evolved vocal style, a combination of experimentation and homage to her musical roots.
Notable Song Insights:
- "I Know a Way": Inspired by life's unpredictable challenges and the sustaining power of music.
- "Born in a Cage": Originated from spontaneous collaboration during a soundcheck, embodying themes of confinement and freedom.
Conclusion and Upcoming Performances
The episode concludes with Griffin expressing gratitude for her enduring relationship with her audience and anticipation for her upcoming performance at Sony Hall on West 46th Street. Listeners are encouraged to experience the album live, further cementing the communal aspect of her music.
Notable Quote (23:44):
"Patti Griffin's latest album is Crown of Roses. It's out now. She's a show tomorrow night at Sony Hall on West 46th street at 8pm. Patti, thanks for joining us."
Final Thoughts: Patty Griffin's "Crown of Roses" emerges as a poignant reflection of personal loss, resilience, and the enduring power of music to heal and connect. Through candid discussions and heartfelt performances, this episode of All Of It offers listeners a comprehensive and intimate look into Griffin's artistic journey and the cultural narratives that shape her work.