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For singer songwriter Martha Scanlan, a visit to a friend’s ranch in Montana a few years ago changed her life forever. She was so moved by the experience that it inspired her to write her first song, and it wasn’t long before even bigger changes followed. In the latest What’s in a Song, which aired Sunday, April 29, on NPR’s Weekend Edition, Martha sings and speaks of her love for the traditions and rhythms of ranch life. Some of you may remember that Martha was part of Western Folklife Center’s Expressing Montana project, and was a featured performer at the 2012 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Click here to watch a video of Martha singing her song "Up On The Divide."

What's in a Song is the Western Folklife Center’s occasional radio series on NPR that weaves together a tapestry of American music, one song and one story at a time. This installment of What’s in a Song was produced with support from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.

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"TheThe Heart of Our Town" by Kristin Windbigler of Blocksburg, California

Fresh from their premiere at the 28th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, the 2012 Deep West Videos are now available for viewing on the Western Folklife Center's YouTube channel. Now in their 12th year, these first-person videos make a powerful testament about the creativity and artfulness that define life in the rural West, and give participants a means to take part in the digital storytelling revolution of the 21st century. This year's selection also includes a video by students at a one-room schoolhouse in rural California, a loving family tribute to an American vaquero, and more. Purchase the 2012 Deep West Videos in our online gift shop.