Art in America

The song "Art in America" by the band Art in America is a standout track from their 1983 self-titled debut album, known for its unique blend of symphonic progressive rock and AOR sensibilities. One fascinating piece of trivia is that the song features a pedal harp, played by Shishonee Flynn, making the band the first rock act to incorporate this instrument on a major label release. This distinctive element caught the attention of MTV, which aired the song’s video during the channel’s early years, giving the band notable exposure. According to a post on their Facebook page, the album was produced by Eddy Offord, renowned for his work with Yes and Emerson, Lake & Palmer, which lent the track a polished yet adventurous sound. Fans on the Prog Archives have noted that the song’s catchy melodies and intricate breaks reflect influences from Yes and Rush, though some critique its pop-leaning structure as a product of the 1980s AOR era. The album’s cover art, painted by Ioannis, was later featured in Michael Ochs’ book 1000 Record Covers, highlighting its visual impact.

Another interesting story comes from the band’s reflections on their early days, shared in a 2018 Facebook update. The track "Art in America" was born during a period when the band, originally called Father, was transitioning to a new identity and sound. They were opening for major acts like U2 and Roxy Music, which influenced their ambition to craft a song that could stand out in the competitive early ’80s music scene. The band’s official website mentions that the song’s lyrical themes, penned by lead vocalist and guitarist Chris Flynn, were inspired by a blend of artistic expression and cultural commentary, though the band has kept specific interpretations open-ended to resonate with listeners. Fans in the Art in America Fans Facebook group often discuss how the song’s harp-driven melody and soaring vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia for the era’s progressive rock experimentation.

Art in America was formed in Detroit in 1980 by siblings Chris Flynn (guitar, vocals), Dan Flynn (drums), and Shishonee Flynn (harp, vocals), along with friend Jim Kuha (bass). Shishonee, previously a member of The Trees Community, brought her expertise with the pedal harp, which became a defining feature of the band’s sound. Initially named Father, the group honed their craft in local clubs before adopting the name Art in America, a nod to their artistic aspirations. Their big break came when music attorney Rick Smith discovered them, leading to a deal with CBS/Epic’s Pavilion Records. As detailed on their official website, their 1983 debut album, featuring contributions from keyboardist T Lavitz of Dixie Dregs and pre-production input from Steve Morse, showcased their unique sound. The band toured extensively, supporting acts like King Crimson and Gary Numan, which helped build their cult following.

You can connect with Art in America through their Facebook, where they share updates on new releases like their 2023 EP The Shadows of Galloway, and their Instagram, which features behind-the-scenes content and throwback photos. Their X account is less active but occasionally posts about music streaming availability. Fans gather at the Art in America Fans Facebook group, a vibrant community sharing memories and rare recordings. The Prog Archives also serves as a fan hub, offering detailed discography and reviews. The band’s website remains the best source for ordering their music, including the collector’s edition of their 2018 album Cloudborn.