Award-winning singer-songwriter Sarah Sample treats us with an interactive interview in front of a live audience in our Mormon Stories studio—sharing with us songs from her new album, Redwing, which explores her faith journey out of Mormonism.
Sarah writes beautiful songs that weave a trail of stories through folk, Americana, and country and have garnered comparisons to Sheryl Crow, The Weepies, and Bonnie Raitt.
Redwing, Sample’s sixth album, features more of her cut-to-the-bone storytelling, framed with empathy and compassion, and told with the best singing of Sample’s career. Produced by Sample’s longtime producer Scott Wiley (Elliott Smith, Bonnie Raitt), Redwing came to life over a few weeks of sessions at June Audio in Provo, Utah.
Redwing is—among other things and in the grand tradition of albums—a breakup album. But this was no run-of-the-mill romantic heartbreak; Sample’s breakup was spiritual. She left the committed religion of her upbringing (and its by-the-book lifestyle) to chart her own spiritual course, with all the starting over, unmapped question marks, and personal reconstruction that come with it. In the process, she landed in Wyoming where, in her words, “the wide open spaces felt like open arms to me—the endless skies and horizons leave room for anyone to belong.” Redwing tells that story. And more.
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2 Responses
John, I can’t believe you didn’t ask Sarah if she’s a True Aggie!
Very interesting interview and very beautiful music, singing, and lyrics!
It’s been my privelege to have known Sarah Sample all my life. Throughout my travels, from both sides of the equator to across the international date line, as well as over the course of the many cultures and faiths I’ve experienced, Sarah continues to truly be one of the kindest, most genuinely Christ like people I have encountered. She is a true beacon of light.
It continues to bring me great joy to share in Sarah’s faith journey through this podcast. Her music, depth, and spirit are precious gifts. Be sure to check out he latest album, “Redwing.” It’s absolutely wonderful.