The Lyric's The Thing
Summary
Pat Kenny and Paul Harrington explore the history of the song "From a Distance," written by Julie Gold in 1985 while she worked as an HBO secretary. The episode details how the track, initially rejected by many, found fame after Nancy Griffith recorded it in Belfast, leading to global success and a Grammy win. They discuss the song's themes of peace and hope, its impact on audiences, and its unique journey from a small New York apartment to the Mir space station.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Julie Gold and the song's origin
Julie Gold's move to NYC and her electric piano
Receiving her childhood piano and the writing process
Recording the demo and initial rejections
Christine Lavin's Rolodex and the path to Nancy Griffith
Nancy Griffith's recording and subsequent covers
Performances in Belfast and the song's impact on audiences
Rejection by Clive Davis and the Decca Records comparison
Bette Midler's recording and the song's global reach
Lyrical themes, Grammy win, and Irish success
Paul Harrington's personal connection to Julie Gold
Live performance of 'From a Distance'
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