In this episode, Adrianne Lenker, the lead singer of Big Thief and acclaimed solo artist, shares her journey through heartbreak and creativity. She discusses how sadness can transform into a beautiful artistic expression in her song 'Sadness As a Gift.' Lenker and co-producer Phil Weinrobe reveal the intimate and boundary-pushing recording techniques they used to capture raw emotion. They also reflect on the evolution of the song's lyrics, emphasizing the deep connections formed during collaboration and the profound complexities of love.
Adrianne Lenker discusses how reframing sadness as a sign of deep love enhances emotional understanding during heartbreak.
The collaboration between Lenker and co-producer Phil Weinrobe emphasizes the value of spontaneity and genuine expression in the recording process.
Deep dives
The Concept of Sadness as a Gift
The song "Sadness is a Gift" reflects the profound realization that sadness signifies the depth of love and emotion experienced during heartbreak. The artist discusses how a therapist helped her reframe her perception of sadness, viewing it as an indicator of love rather than merely a painful loss. This duality allows for both the acknowledgment of overwhelming sorrow and the understanding that such feelings are part of a broader emotional landscape. Each verse encapsulates this struggle, illustrating how profound love can coexist with painful longing.
The Creative Process and Collaboration
Adrienne Lenker highlights the importance of collaboration with her co-producer, Philip Weinrobe, emphasizing the trust and connection they developed while working together. Their creative process involved spontaneous sessions in a comfortable studio environment that facilitated genuine musical expression. The decision not to use headphones during recording allowed them to play in real-time, which fostered an authentic and organic sound. This unconventional approach created a unique alchemy in their music, allowing improvisation and instinct to guide the session.
Embracing Imperfection in Performance
The recording process prioritized the energy and emotion of live performance over seeking technical perfection, pushing against traditional recording practices. Lenker believes that capturing spontaneous moments of joy leads to more vibrant and engaging music, even if it means sacrificing polished takes. She reflects on her childhood experiences in the studio, shaping her belief that the essence of a song is found in the feelings it evokes rather than in its perceived perfection. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of genuine expression and connection over technical critique, ultimately enriching the music.
Adrianne Lenker is a singer and songwriter. She’s the lead singer of the critically acclaimed and beloved band Big Thief, and her work as a solo artist is also critically acclaimed and beloved. Her most recent solo album, Bright Future, was named one of the best albums of 2024 by the New Yorker, Stereogum, and more, and it was nominated for a Grammy for Best Folk Album. It was co-produced by Adrianne and longtime collaborator Phil Weinrobe. And I talked to the two of them about the making of one of my favorite songs from it, “Sadness As a Gift.”