David Mallett

David Mallett was working on the garden on his family's farm in rural Maine when he was inspired to run into the house, take a pencil and pad and write a new song. In the nearly three decades since, "The Garden Song" has been covered by more than 150 artists ranging from Pete Seeger and Arlo Guthrie to John Denver and the Muppets. Besides being translated and recorded in a lengthy list of languages, the song inspired a book, Inch By Inch, published by Harper Collins. Mallett, however, is not limited to just one song. A highly skilled songsmith, Mallett has consistently captured the cold winds and warm hearts of northern New England and the simple life of rural America through his songs. In addition to being featured on Mallett's many albums, his tunes have been covered by a growing list of artists, including Emmylou Harris, who recorded Mallett's "Red Red Rose," and Kathy Mattea, who recorded his "Summer of My Dreams." Mallett attracted attention with his music at a very early age. By the time he was ten, he was performing throughout northern New England in a country-folk band that he shared with his brother. Although the group was best known for their youthful renditions of country tunes by Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, they included a large number of folk songs by Peter, Paul and Mary and the Kingston Trio in their repertoire. While attending the University of Maine, Mallett became absorbed by the songs of Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Dylan and other contemporary singer-songwriters. Leaving the school, he embarked on a career as a soloist. Mallett's first break came when he met Noel Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary. Stookey, who owned a recording studio in South Blue Hills, Maine, became Mallett's mentor and produced his first three albums. He was also instrumental in...