Idaho Musicians Share Songs Inspired by the Gem State

Music has lifted the spirit of the Gem State's people since long before Idaho was named a territory. It has been a touchstone to our past while enriching our lives. 

In "Idaho in Song, Volume 2," from our local history series Idaho Experience, we explore our state's history through music. Beth Pederson starts us out with a beautiful tune called “Idaho,” inspired by a misconception about the origin of the state’s name. Historian Keith Petersen sets that story straight with a tale of 19th-century lore invented out of cultural appropriation. 

Nez Perce native Nakia Williamson-Cloud sings a song honoring chiefs of his tribe, a press release said.

Folk legend Judy Collins speaks with lifelong friend Belinda Bowler about her song “Prairie Dream,” inspired by her father, Chuck Collins of Lapwai, Idaho. The song pays tribute to Native American lives while honoring the legacy of Nez Perce rodeo champion Jackson Sundown. 

Their conversation also reveals a deep connection between Judy’s father and her godfather, Holden Bowler, Belinda’s dad. Chuck and Holden, who were fraternity brothers at Phi Gamma Delta, played and sang together at the University of Idaho and went on to make meaningful musical connections throughout their lives, the release said.

And finally, Gary Eller and Friends resurrect an Idaho original put to song by “the musical poem recorder of Cascade, Idaho,” Ione Love Thielke.

Producer and director Andy Lawless calls this program “a multicultural collage of the human spirit woven together through music that celebrates the heart of our cultural heritage.” 

"Idaho in Song, Volume 2" airs Thursday, July 2, at 8:30 p.m. and again Sunday, July 5, at 7:30 p.m. on Idaho Public Television. It will be available for streaming beginning July 2 on the PBS app and online at video.idahoptv.org.

The companion program "Idaho in Song, Volume 1" is available online and on the app for streaming anytime.