The connection between wine and music is nothing short of amazing. Moreover,nothing has the power to reconnect us to the most memorable and vivid memories of our lives more than music. And this week’s deeply nostalgic installment of Grape Encounters Radio is prove positive of this contention. Episode #781 of Grape Encounters Radio takes listeners on a captivating and unforgettable journey back to the late 1960s in the idyllic Sonoma Valley of California. At the time, this stunningly beautiful agricultural region was virtually unknown, especially in the world of wine.
Nestled just a short drive from the vibrant musical hubs of San Francisco, Berkeley, and Monterey, Sonoma was on the verge of becoming one of the world’s premier winemaking destinations. This episode explores the intriguing intersection of the burgeoning wine industry and the explosive rock and roll scene of the era.
Host David Wilson dives into the fascinating story of Norman Greenbaum, the legendary singer-songwriter responsible for the iconic song “Spirit in the Sky.” Often described as the ultimate one-hit wonder, “Spirit in the Sky” remains one of the most beloved rock ‘n’ roll hits of all time. In fact, this beloved anthem is actually more popular today than it was 50 years ago. Greenbaum’s journey is particularly special for this week’s show as it intertwines with the story of Sonoma Valley wines. Norman arrived in Sonoma while working on his legendary song and, unlike many others who left Northern California after making their mark, he never left. He has remained a resident of Sonoma for over 50 years, witnessing firsthand the region’s transformation from a sleepy agricultural area to a world-renowned winemaking powerhouse.
Grape Encounters Host David Wilson recounts the serendipitous event that led to an instant and significant friendship with Norman. It was just about two years ago when David made a return trip to California to take care of unfinished business after recently making a monumental move to Eastern Italy. Part of his return visit included a week-long stay in the Sonoma Valley, one of David’s favorite places on Earth. While in the area, David connected with Radio Icon and mentor Michael O’Shea, co-owner of several leading radio stations in the area, including news and talk powerhouse KSRO, based in Santa Rosa. On one particular day, Michael mentioned that he couldn’t meet with David because he had to deliver tickets to his friend Norman. Intrigued, David asked who this Norman was, only to discover it was Norman Greenbaum who, quite remarkably, David had dreamt about the night before. David swears this is the absolute truth!
David’s excitement was palpable. He insisted on accompanying Michael to Norman’s house, where they spent hours in lively conversation and shared experiences. The connection was immediate and profound, leading to an instant friendship. David fondly recalls spending an entire day at Norman’s house, drinking wine and forging a bond that he expects to last a lifetime.
This installment of Grape Encounters Radio is now their second interview together, focusing on Norman’s long-term residency in Sonoma Valley and his unique perspective on the region’s transformation over the past five decades. Norman reflects on his early days in Los Angeles, his move to Sonoma in 1968, and his career’s pivotal moments. He shares vivid memories of the vibrant music scene in Northern California, where legends like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Doors were just starting to make waves.
Norman recounts how he met Eric Jacobson, a prominent wine producer who had worked with The Lovin’ Spoonful. Jacobson introduced Norman to the beauty and potential of the Sonoma Valley. Despite knowing little about wine at the time, Norman was captivated by the region and decided to make it his home. He recalls recording “Spirit in the Sky” in San Francisco while staying with Jacobson in Marin County, just south of Sonoma.
David and Norman discuss the parallel rise of the rock and roll scene and the wine industry in Northern California during the late 60s and early 70s. Norman shares his observations on how both industries started from humble beginnings and grew to achieve global recognition. He talks about the early days when Sonoma was primarily known for growing peaches and prunes, long before it became synonymous with world-class wines.
Listeners will be enthralled as David and Norman explore the deep connections between music and wine. They delve into the cultural shifts that were happening simultaneously in both fields, highlighting how the innovative spirit of the 60s influenced the evolution of winemaking and rock music. Norman’s stories about the music festivals, the outdoor gigs, and the sense of community among musicians and winemakers provide a rich, engaging narrative.
David’s personal account of how he and Norman became instant friends adds a heartfelt dimension to the episode. He describes the overwhelming joy of meeting one of his musical heroes and the shared experiences that cemented their friendship. The episode captures the essence of their bond and the shared passion for music and wine that continues to inspire their conversations.
Tune in to Grape Encounters Radio for an unforgettable journey through time, music, and wine. This episode is a tribute to the enduring spirit of creativity and the remarkable transformation of Sonoma Valley, as seen through the eyes of Norman Greenbaum and his dear friend, David Wilson.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Click Here to Subscribe to Grape Encounters Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS
More Stories
Episode # 795 – World-Class Culinary Education, From Behind Bars
Episode #790 – Celebrate Most Awesome Ever California Wine Month’s Events, Festivals, and Sustainable Wine Adventures
Episode #782 – She is to E-Commerce What Peanut Butter is to Jelly! Why the Wine World Adores Jessica Kogan!