Backstage Pass: Paul Thorn

Backstage Pass programs offer students the opportunity to explore a variety of music careers, hear artists' stories first hand, and meet industry professionals. On October 10, students are invited to join us for a Backstage Pass with Paul Thorn featuring a performance and Q&A in the Sanders Soundstage. Recommended for grades 3+.

Paul Thorn’s new release, Don’t Let the Devil Ride, marks Thorn’s first time recording gospel music, after a dozen albums in roots-rock mode. The son of a preacher man, Mississippi-raised Thorn spent much of his childhood in church, participating in multiple weekly services with his father as well as at neighboring African American congregations, where he became entranced with the music whose infectious spirit is captured on the new album.

Don’t Let the Devil Ride collects soulful songs originally cut by black southern gospel groups, and features guests Blind Boys of Alabama, the McCrary Sisters, the Preservation Hall Jazz Horns, and Bonnie Bishop. “This is the culmination of my whole life in music, coming back to my gospel roots,” says Paul Thorn about his newest album, Don’t Let the Devil Ride. “My message on this record is ‘let’s get together’—I want to help lighten your load and make you smile.”

For more information about Paul Thorn CLICK HERE