In a dynamic career that spans decades, Patti Spadaro has proven herself a force in the music world, blending genres, drawing inspiration from iconic artists, and continuously evolving her sound. A skilled lead guitarist with a background in both music and physics, Spadaro has performed with legends and carved out a unique place in a male-dominated industry. In this interview, she discusses the inspiration behind her latest anthem, “Glass Shatters,” a powerful tribute to resilience and progress, and reflects on her journey, collaborations, and the impact of motherhood on her artistry.
Q: Your latest single, “Glass Shatters,” is a powerful anthem inspired by the swearing-in of the first female Vice President. Can you tell us more about how that historic moment influenced your songwriting process?
A: As a woman lead guitarist with a degree in Physics, I have a lot of experience working and studying in male-dominated fields. I was 1 of 3 women guitarists among about 700 guys in music school. In many jobs, women are still being paid less than men. Harassment and abuse of women is still common. And we are not equality represented in government. When Kamala Harris became our nation’s first woman Vice President, I was very excited. I wanted to celebrate this huge milestone. I began writing a song about it. I did some rewriting before recording it, and released the single this past June. Now that she is running for President, the song is even more relevant. It’s time for this biggest glass ceiling to shatter. I think women and men will benefit when we all have representation in our government.
Q: The song emphasizes the themes of resilience and progress for women. How do you hope “Glass Shatters” resonates with listeners, particularly women?
A: I hope “Glass Shatters” inspires people to come together and work for progress. I hope it empowers women. It’s a celebration, but also acknowledges that there is still plenty of work to do. Five women voices collaborate and harmonize on the song. It features women and men musicians creating something new together, better and richer than any one of us alone.
Q: You’ve had a diverse and dynamic career, from studying at the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood to performing with renowned artists like Little Feat and Eddie Van Halen. How have these experiences shaped your musical style and approach?
A: Playing with top-notch players is a great way to lift yourself up to new heights and go beyond limitations. At Musician’s Institute I was surrounded by amazing players from all over the world. I studied with guitarist Scott Henderson from Tribal Tech, who played with Chick Corea’s band for a while. I’d sit down with Scott, we’d pick a song, sometimes one of his tunes, or a jazz standard, or something bluesy, and we’d improvise on it. He’d show me riffs and give me tips and ideas. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to play with him so often. I also played weekly with Keith Wyatt, guitarist for the Blasters. He’s a fabulous blues and roots-rock player. Keith and Scott helped me develop my phrasing and fluid style. I also learned a lot about rhythm there. I practiced with a metronome and improved my sense of time. I explored different time signatures and syncopation. Opening for and hanging out with Little Feat and Eddie Van Halen was great fun. I began to learn about simply letting go and absorbing myself in the moment. Being in the flow.
Q: Collaboration is a key aspect of “Glass Shatters,” with contributions from several talented musicians. How did working with these artists, especially the female vocalists, bring the song’s message to life?
A: We all brought unique gifts and talents to the table. We lifted each other up, offered creative insights, empowered each other. We listened to each other with respect and appreciation. We contributed our best selves and left ego behind. We each shine on the song. And we all help each other shine. Hopefully that feels good to the listener. Hopefully the music moves you. In our society, every person’s voice is important and can contribute to something good. And improve the world around us, even if it’s just a small moment of joy that you add to someone’s day. The song’s message is about all of this. Women and our talents and gifts have often been held back or not seen. My hope is that glass ceilings become a thing of the past. That collaboration of different talents can bring a brighter future for us all.
Q: Your music spans genres and draws from a wide range of influences, from Bonnie Raitt to The Grateful Dead. How do these diverse inspirations come together in your songwriting and performances?
A: Singers like Sara Bareilles, Bonnie Raitt and Natalie Merchant helped shape my voice. Listening to the Grateful Dead improved my improvisation skills. I enjoy blues, rock, jam bands, and lots of music. I had a blast at a Green Day concert in a few weeks ago. Guitar players like Derek Trucks, Stevie Ray Vaughn and John Mayer are all inspirations. I draw from all these things. I like to blend styles and be creative while writing and performing. I love to improvise live. I think all these diverse musicians bring a sense of energy and passion, connection and unity to their music. That’s what I aim to do as well.
Q: The Pittsburgh music scene has played a significant role in your career. What is it about this community that keeps you rooted here?
A: After living in Los Angeles for 10 years, I missed the lush green of PA. I wanted to be closer to family, spend more time in nature, and have a lower cost of living. So, my husband and I moved back to PA and had two daughters. I’ve made some close friends in western PA, both in the music world and outside of it. I discovered a yoga school and teachers and friends that I can really connect with who are into the deeper aspects of yoga and meditation. I started teaching at a local college. I’ve been teaching at the college 12 years now and it gives me a sense of purpose to share what I know with the next generation. It feels good. Pittsburgh’s a great city with a lot of culture, arts, music, theater, restaurants, museums, events and Universities. We live outside the city limits, surrounded by nature. I think it’s a combination of all these things that keeps me here.
Q: As both a musician and a mother, how have your personal experiences, particularly raising two daughters, impacted the way you write and perform music?
A: Life changes with parenthood, that’s for sure. Kids require a lot of attention and time. I spent several years as a stay-at-home mom, not performing much. I used to go out on tour while living in LA. But, with kids, I didn’t want to tour and be away from them. I love my kids and loved being able to stay home to raise them, but it was also a lot of work. Although music wasn’t my main focus then, I’d usually find time here and there to write or practice or go to a jam night or something. When they got a little older, I got back to music and recorded my Bringing Me Back CD. I began performing around the Pittsburgh area often. Sometimes my husband would bring them to an outdoor show or festival. My oldest daughter plays violin, and when she was around 12 or 13, she started performing with me on stage occasionally, which was very special.
Q: Looking ahead, what message do you want to continue sharing through your music, and what can fans expect from The Patti Spadaro Band in the near future?
A: I’d like to keep sharing good music and good vibes. Bring people together, share positive energy. I love to improvise, and “get into the zone” while playing. It feels great to let loose and be present in the moment while playing with a great band. In the words of John Lennon: “Love is the answer”. I think I’d like to keep sharing that message, love yourself and love each other. We can do a lot of good if we relax, open our hearts, and come together in a positive way. I’m currently recording a new song “Mystic Misfit”. I’ll be releasing that in 2025. I’m writing some new songs, and I’m collaborating with some new people. I’ll be planning more shows in 2025.
For more information on Patti Spadaro, please visit – http://www.pattispadaro.com
