Podcast Summary: "Grace Potter: Life, Lyrics, and the Release of 'Medicine'"

Episode Title: Grace Potter: Life, Lyrics, and the Release of "Medicine"
Podcast: takin' a walk
Host: Buzz Knight
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Duration: Approximately 35 minutes

1. Introduction to Grace Potter

In this episode of "takin' a walk," host Buzz Knight welcomes singer-songwriter Grace Potter, a dynamic force in the music industry known for her work with Grace Potter and the Nocturnals as well as her solo endeavors. Knight highlights Grace's rich musical journey from her Vermont roots to performing on world stages, emphasizing her role as a storyteller inspired by both the open road and the intimate corners of home.

[03:18] Buzz Knight: "Today, Buzz is joined by a true force of nature, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Grace Potter... She's here to talk also about her new album, Medicine. It was produced by T Bone Burnett and recorded 18 years ago, and it's just now being released."

2. The Release of "Medicine"

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Grace's long-awaited album, "Medicine." Recorded 18 years prior with the renowned producer T Bone Burnett, the album's delayed release has been a topic of intrigue. Grace delves into the complexities and challenges that led to the postponement, including industry pressures and creative differences.

[20:37] Grace Potter: "There was a lot at stake and they felt like taking a second crack at it with a producer who was more radio friendly... It feels like there's a shelf life there. But I think Tina Turner can attest to the fact that that's not at all true."

Grace elaborates on the initial collaboration with Burnett, praising his openness and the organic development of the album's sound. She reflects on the trust established during the production and the subsequent disconnect that delayed the album’s release.

[27:05] Grace Potter: "It was trust. He trusted me, I trusted him... That faith in one another and in the directive was something I cherished and learned a lot from."

3. Early Days in Vermont and Musical Influences

Grace shares insights into her upbringing in Vermont, highlighting how the state's blend of intellectuals and farmers fostered her curiosity and shaped her musical outlook. The diversity of perspectives and a deep connection to nature played pivotal roles in her artistic development.

[10:15] Grace Potter: "I spent time with and loved socializing with people of all ages... Vermont is a place where it can be a bit of an echo chamber of, I think there's a lot of intellectuals and there's a lot of farmers."

This environment instilled in Grace a timeless sense of creativity, free from the constraints of specific musical eras or genres, allowing her to draw inspiration from a wide array of sources.

4. Creative Philosophy and Genre Indifference

A recurring theme in the conversation is Grace's disdain for rigid genre classifications. She emphasizes her commitment to authenticity, pursuing whatever music resonates with her regardless of its origin or traditional genre boundaries.

[31:32] Grace Potter: "I don't believe in time and I don't believe in genres, honestly. If it speaks to me, I'm going to chase it down and find a way to interpret it and find my own voice in it."

This philosophy drives her to explore diverse musical landscapes, ensuring her work remains fresh and true to her artistic vision.

5. Experience Working with T Bone Burnett

Grace recounts her collaboration with T Bone Burnett as a transformative experience. She praises his ability to create a trusting and collaborative studio environment, which was instrumental in the creative process of "Medicine."

[27:05] Grace Potter: "He genuinely wanted to know what was my natural reaction to something. He would want to hear me just sing something down in the studio and see where my instincts would take me."

The partnership with Burnett not only shaped the album's unique sound but also reinforced Grace's confidence in her creative instincts.

6. Touring with Chris Stapleton and Other Artists

The discussion shifts to Grace's experiences on tour, particularly her time playing alongside country star Chris Stapleton. She admires Stapleton's innate musicality and the supportive culture he has cultivated within his band.

[29:02] Grace Potter: "He's a truly just salt of the earth human who seems like he came from the primordial ooze of music... It's an empire I want to live in, I certainly would love to build that empire myself."

Grace draws parallels between touring with Stapleton and other artists like Kenny Chesney, highlighting the mastery and seamless operations that contribute to successful live performances.

7. Future Musical Explorations

Looking ahead, Grace expresses a desire to delve into various musical genres and projects. From scoring films to exploring Hawaiian music, Spanish influences, bossa nova, and flamenco guitar, she is eager to expand her artistic repertoire.

[31:32] Grace Potter: "I'd love to make a whole Hawaiian record. I'd love to make an entire Spanish language record. I'm so inspired by bossa nova and I've always wanted to learn how to play flamenco guitar."

Her openness to experimentation underscores her commitment to continuous growth and exploration in her musical journey.

8. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode concludes, Grace reflects on the release of "Medicine" as a culmination of years of artistic evolution and resilience. She underscores the album's significance not just as a collection of songs but as a testament to her enduring passion for music and storytelling.

[34:12] Grace Potter: "I had so much fun talking to you, Buzz. I hope we get to talk again soon."

Buzz reiterates the importance of sharing such works with true music fans, who will appreciate the depth and recontextualization of Grace's voice and artistry.

[34:19] Buzz Knight: "Thanks for listening to this episode of the Taking a Walk podcast. Share this and other episodes with your friends and follow us so you never miss an episode."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Grace on Vermont's Influence:
  "[10:15] 'I spent time with and loved socializing with people of all ages... Vermont is a place where it can be a bit of an echo chamber of, I think there's a lot of intellectuals and there's a lot of farmers.'"

• Grace on Genre Indifference:
  "[31:32] 'I don't believe in time and I don't believe in genres, honestly. If it speaks to me, I'm going to chase it down and find a way to interpret it and find my own voice in it.'"

• Grace on Collaboration with T Bone Burnett:
  "[27:05] 'He genuinely wanted to know what was my natural reaction to something. He would want to hear me just sing something down in the studio and see where my instincts would take me.'"

• Grace on Touring with Chris Stapleton:
  "[29:02] 'He's a truly just salt of the earth human who seems like he came from the primordial ooze of music... It's an empire I want to live in, I certainly would love to build that empire myself.'"

• Grace on Future Musical Projects:
  "[31:32] 'I'd love to make a whole Hawaiian record. I'd love to make an entire Spanish language record. I'm so inspired by bossa nova and I've always wanted to learn how to play flamenco guitar.'"

Closing Notes

This episode offers an intimate glimpse into Grace Potter's artistic journey, her unwavering dedication to authentic musical expression, and the enduring impact of her long-buried album, "Medicine." Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs that shape her as an artist, making this a must-listen for fans and music enthusiasts alike.