Culture
2016 Gladden House Sessions: Son Little
By: Tiffanie Fogel
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WOUB Digital, in partnership with the Ohio University School of Media Arts & Studies and the Nelsonville Music Festival, is proud to present The Gladden House Sessions. Hosted by Josh Antonuccio, this 14-part video series features performers at the 2016 Nelsonville Music Festival, filmed in front of an audience at the historic Gladden House, located at Hocking College’s Robbins Crossing.
This episode features Philadelphia-based R&B artist Son Little (aka Aaron Livingston).
Originally from Los Angeles, Livingston was raised by a teacher and a preacher, but left shortly after graduating high school to study at Columbia University in New York City. Soon after, he relocated to Philadelphia, where he collaborated with artists such as The Roots and RJD2. His first solo album, Son Little, was released in 2015 on ANTI- Records, and brought him widespread critical acclaim. His album was featured on NPR’s First Listen List, and his song “Lay Down” off of the album has earned him comparisons to artists such as Leon Bridges.
Son Little kicked off his Gladden House Session with a rendition of “O Mother,” from his most recent release. Accompanied by only an acoustic guitar, Livingston’s soulful voice sang out over the minimal background. He followed up with “Lay Down,” his most popular song, and drew in a crowd larger than most other sessions. Livingston closed the set with a stripped down version of “Your Love Will Blow Me Away When My Heart Aches,” which was powerful despite the minimal accompaniment. The simplicity of Son Little’s set made his voice stand out all the more, and made it clear why he’s become such a hit.
For more information about the Gladden House Sessions, and to view past shows, visit this link.