Description:
Nanci Griffith (1953-2021) remains, despite her untimely death, a "living, breathing, ever-present entity and inspiration." According to author Brian T. Atkinson, reflections on Griffith's omnipresent influence often cause people to shift "from past tense to present tense in mid-sentence." She remains one of the most well-loved of Texas' singer-songwriters with hits still popular today, such as "Gulf Coast Highway," "Trouble in the Fields," and "Love at the Five and Dime."
Atkinson has interviewed a host of songwriters and other artists from across the spectrum: from Lyle Lovett, Steve Earle, and Robert Earl Keen to Counting Crows' Adam Duritz, "American Pie" songwriter Don McLean, and the London Symphony Orchestra's Tom Norris. Gathering the recollections of those who performed with, listened to, and were impacted by the artistry of Nanci Griffith, Atkinson balances these with his own comments and reflections on Griffith's legacy--including the demons she wrestled with that ultimately overcame her.
Love at the Five and Dime: The Songwriting Legacy of Nanci Griffith promises to be, as one reviewer has described it, "an indispensable source for anyone wanting to learn more about all things Nanci." This book adds deep value to our understanding of the life and work of a vital Texas artist.
Review Quotes: "Nanci Griffith is one of the greatest songwriters to come out of Texas. Her songs inspired generations of other writers, particularly women, who saw in her the fire, genius and drive to make a life of song successful. This is the story of a brilliant, influential songwriter, who happened to be a Texas woman, who rose to international prominence at a time when glorified Texas songwriters were almost all men. The beauty of this book, and the beauty of Nanci Griffith, can be found in her work, which has impacted generation after generation of songwriters. Nanci's story is told through interviews with those who knew her, those she influenced and Nanci's own words. This book is a must read for anyone interested in Texas music, folk music, songwriting, the glory and perils of fame, and the intricate web that songwriters weave, as we bounce off of each others work and ideas as we try to shape our own."--Mary Gauthier, Grammy-nominated American folk singer-songwriter and author--Mary Gauthier