Sam Palladio releases touching WWII inspired video for new single ‘Wake Me Up In Nashville’

Acclaimed musician and actor Sam Palladio has released the video for his new single ‘Wake Me Up In Nashville,' a heartfelt acoustic ballad from his debut album, ‘The Perfect Summer’s Day, Before We Lost The Light.' The song is a tribute to Palladio’s late grandfather, Owen Scott, a decorated World War II bomber pilot, and tells the story of his poignant wartime romance in the United States.

‘Wake Me Up In Nashville' draws from a true love story that began when Scott, an RAF Lancaster bomber pilot, was stationed in the U.S. for training. Scott met a young woman from Nashville while training in Pensacola, Florida, and they shared a brief but meaningful romance before he was sent back to England. As Scott’s train passed through Nashville, he arranged to meet his love at Union Station for a final farewell, but fate intervened—he was never woken up, and the two were separated without a goodbye.

Reflecting on the song, Palladio shared, “This was the first song I wrote after moving to Nashville to film the TV show Nashville. Honoring my grandfather’s story in music has always been special to me, and to finally include his voice as the intro of the track makes it incredibly personal.” Palladio recorded Scott recounting his wartime memories before he passed away in 2018, and these recordings now lend an intimate depth to the song.

Palladio’s new album ‘The Perfect Summer’s Day, Before We Lost The Light' is a blend of Americana and rock influences, shaped by his deep connection to Nashville’s music scene. The album features a variety of collaborations, including Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro on ‘Spill Your Heart' and Chris Shiflett of Foo Fighters on the lively track ‘Tennessee,' which they recently performed together at London’s iconic 100 Club.

Recorded partly in Nashville and completed in Los Angeles at Sunset Sound’s famed “Prince Room” with Grammy-winning producer Dave Sardy (known for his work with Noel Gallagher, Band Of Horses, and Royal Blood), Palladio’s album is a testament to both his British roots and his Nashville influences. ‘The Perfect Summer’s Day, Before We Lost The Light' captures a spectrum of emotions and musical textures, reflecting pivotal moments in Palladio’s life and career.

Watch the video for ‘Wake Me Up In Nashville' and experience this moving tribute that connects Palladio’s family history with his artistry.