Breaking Barriers and Shattering Ceilings: Patti Spadaro’s Anthem for Women’s Empowerment

Michael Stover
3 min readAug 30, 2024

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Patti Spadaro

In a world where the fight for gender equality continues, art and music often serve as powerful vehicles for change. Patti Spadaro, a dynamic guitarist, singer, and songwriter, is contributing to this movement with her latest single, “Glass Shatters.” Released on June 8, 2024, the track is more than just a song — it’s a rallying cry for women everywhere, celebrating progress while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.

The Inspiration Behind “Glass Shatters”

The genesis of “Glass Shatters” can be traced back to a pivotal moment in American history: the swearing-in of Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President of the United States in 2021. This historic event deeply moved Spadaro, igniting the creative spark that would eventually lead to this anthem of empowerment. “I was so excited to finally be represented in the second highest seat of our government,” Spadaro recalls. “This was a true moment of progress, and I wanted to celebrate it.”

With its blend of introspective lyrics and uplifting melodies, “Glass Shatters” serves as both a tribute to this milestone and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. The song’s chorus — “Keep rising up, never giving up / Hear us Roar, Hear us Roar” — encapsulates the determination and resilience that define the women’s movement.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXjZ9Ct7h9s

A Collaborative Effort

“Glass Shatters” is a testament to the power of collaboration. The track features a lineup of talented female musicians, including Anne Celedonia on keys, and background vocalists Cherylann Hawk, Jill Simmons, and Alison McTavish, who lend their voices to create a harmonious and powerful sound. Spadaro’s signature guitar work is complemented by the contributions of drummer Eric Kurtzrock and bassist Ryan Black, creating a rich, dynamic musical landscape that brings the song’s message to life.

The single was recorded at Blue Door Recorders in Pittsburgh, reflecting Spadaro’s deep roots in the local music scene. Her journey, which took her from Pennsylvania to Hollywood and back, is as varied as her musical influences, which range from Bonnie Raitt and Tedeschi Trucks Band to The Grateful Dead and Natalie Merchant.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Patti Spadaro’s music career has been defined by her commitment to using her platform to inspire and uplift others. Over the years, she has released multiple albums, performed at renowned clubs and festivals, and opened for legendary acts like Little Feat and Melvin Seals & JGB. Despite her success in Los Angeles, Spadaro returned to Pennsylvania to raise her two daughters, continuing to pursue her passion for music while balancing the demands of motherhood.

“Glass Shatters” is the latest chapter in Spadaro’s storied career, and it’s a chapter that resonates with the spirit of empowerment. The song’s lyrics, which speak to the challenges and triumphs of women, are a reminder that while the glass ceiling may still exist, it’s getting thinner with each passing day.

As Spadaro sings in the bridge, “Gonna shatter this ceiling to a million pieces / Breathe free, turn up our speakers, and dance.” It’s a message of hope, of progress, and of the unstoppable force that is women’s empowerment.

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