Valley Sounds Episode 417

Michael Goldsmith’s musical journey began at summer camp, inspired by the simple beauty of hearing a counselor play guitar and sing. That spark eventually led him from college parties and songwriting to performing across Birmingham with his longtime band, Common Ground, during the height of City Stages.

Today, Michael serves as an Episcopal priest at the Church of the Nativity in Huntsville, where he says songwriting and preaching often overlap. They are both built around creativity, storytelling, and finding meaning within structure. On this episode, he reflects on balancing ministry, music, and family life while creating Buzzard’s Shadow, an album inspired by the fleeting nature of life and the importance of gratitude, hope, and love.

Michael also talks about collaborating with an incredible lineup of musicians, including his son Gus Goldsmith of Snowclone, Stephen Jackson, Hunter Copeland, Chris Cook, and Cody Cockrell. Together, they crafted a record that moves from struggle to beauty, always aiming to end with love.

Listeners will also hear tracks from the new album, including “Let Love In” and “Hazel Green,” along with music from several of the artists who helped shape the record.