The 2007 collaboration between rock vocalist Robert Plant and bluegrass singer Alison Krauss was an unexpected hit. Raising Sand also helped to bring the genre of Americana music into the mainstream, spawning several singles and garnering a handful of awards, including a Grammy for Best Pop Collaboration.
The album, produced by the amazing T Bone Burnett (who also arranged the music for the movie, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou) is a wonderful mix of American folk, country, bluegrass, gospel, and soul music. And, for me, the best part is how well Krauss and Plant’s voices harmonize. It really is beautiful.
It’s no surprise to find Plant singing Americana. He’s apparently been a fan for quite some time and has spent the past few decades exploring and incorporating influences from around the world into his own releases. Krauss, on the other hand, is well-known as a bluegrass and country singer and musician. Her voice has been described as “angelic”. If you’d like a great example of this, check out her vocals on “Down to the River to Pray” on the Oh Brother, Where Art Thou soundtrack.
My favorite song from Raising Sand is a cover of an Everly Brothers song, “Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)”. It’s light, fun, and you can tell Plant and Krauss enjoy singing it. Here is the official video (all credit to the artists). Let me know what you think of this song and collaboration in the comments section.
RB
Thank you for sharing this piece. Robert Plant is so cool. I love the combined voices and dearly love Down to the River to Pray. Awesome choice.
I’m glad you feel the same, Devonne. Plant still has it after all these years, and Krauss, well, you just can’t find a more ethereal voice than hers.
Thank you for introducing this collaboration! How amazing. I really liked it. It’s cheerful and beautiful ❤️
I’m so glad to hear that, Morag! Thanks for stopping by and giving it a listen. 🙂
You are welcome.
Raising Sand is a terrific album. In fact, I’d say it’s perfect.
No disagreement from me! T Bone Burnett’s song selection, arrangement, and production is fantastic.
I did not expect this level of synergy between the two artists.
Neither did I, Swabby, but they sound great together.
Another recommendation… definitely gonna check this out as well!! The last one “ what’s going on” still is on my list 🥰
That’s fantastic, Aparna! Hope you enjoy this one, as well.
Perfect 👌
Thanks for such classic recommendations 🙌
As soon as I heard the words, Down to the River to Pray, Krause’s voice singing those words popped into my head. Fine review.
Thanks, Pat. She has such an amazing voice, and these duets with Robert Plant are fantastic.
Have to check it out.