‘Nashville’ Premiere – What Was the Song Duet at the End of the Show?
While the 'Nashville' premiere episode on ABC was loaded with country music, one performance at the very end by characters Scarlett O'Connor and Gunnar Scott (played by Clare Bowen and Sam Palladio) is receiving the most attention. The song -- 'If I Didn't Go Better' -- was written and originally recorded by a male/female duet that became a Grammy winning act in 2012.
The Civil Wars' John Paul White wrote the song with songwriter Arum Rae and recorded it with his Civil Wars bandmate, Joy Williams, for their 2009 'Live at Eddie's Attic' album. The 'Nashville' television cover of the song stayed true to the duo's original. Bowen did a nice job recreating Williams' pain, and Palladio did the same with White's vocals.
A total of 14 country songs were used during the premiere episode of 'Nashville,' including well-known hits by Justin Moore, Edens Edge and Eli Young Band, plus lesser known tunes by Greg Bates and Miranda Lambert. 'If I Didn't Know Better' was the featured song, as that performance wrapped up the debut episode.
Watch Scarlett and Gunnar Perform 'If I Didn't Know Better' on 'Nashville
Watch the Civil Wars Perform 'If I Didn't Know Better'