The endlessly talented Amanda Shires is Lightning 100’s Local Artist of the Week! The Texas born musician and songwriter is a featured artist on a new John Prine tribute album. Shires’ contribution to the project was her cover of Prine’s song “Saddle in the Rain.” The new tribute album, Broken Hearts & Dirty Windows: Songs of John Prine, Volume 2, was released on October 8th.
Shires’ version of “Saddle in the Rain” stays true to Prine’s musical choices and the song’s original production. Prine’s version of “Saddle in the Rain” was on his fourth album, Common Sense. The key and the overall groove of Shires’ cover remain true to Prine’s version of the song. Shires’ delivery of Prine’s expressive lyrics is also exceptional, and the song’s key and melody suit her voice perfectly.
Shires is widely celebrated for her individual artistry, and she has also achieved significant acclaim for her collaborative endeavors. She is a founding member of the country music group The Highwomen alongside Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, and Natalie Hemby. Shires also works alongside her husband Jason Isbell as a backup singer and fiddle player for his band The 400 Unit.
Amanda Shires’ new album For Christmas will be coming out on Friday, November 12th. Shires released a single, “Gone For Christmas,” on October 7th. “Gone For Christmas” features The McCrary Sisters and is accompanied by a playful, festive music video. Pre save For Christmas here, and check out Shires’ cover of “Saddle in the Rain” on YouTube below:
Listen all week to hear “Saddle in the Rain” as we feature Amanda Shires as our Local Artist of the Week! Listen live on-air at 100.1FM or at lightning100.com.