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Join Billy Hubbard and his wife Sarah on this part 2 special episode with Singer Songwriter John Smith Presley, a man who has presented DNA and other convincing evidence to prove he is the son of Elvis Presley, and his attorney friend/band mate Tony Petty. John was born in 1961 and adopted and raised by an uncle and aunt of Elvis, Ira Dee and Etta Smith.John is the subject of a film about his life currently in the works based on Rich Carlburg’s book Let The Boy Sing. John is also part of a new Netflix documentary currently in production which is where we caught up with him today. Paul Cohen, a noted Hollywood investigator, has spent the last eight years collecting new and corroborating evidence John already possessed including verification of his birth certificate. The state of Texas had a systems glitch in 1961 the year John was born that caused the “D” in the word "Date" to show up as an “O.” This was the only year this occurred. Most importantly Paul has obtained DNA comparisons to several verifi

Michelle Malone joins hosts Billy and Sarah Hubbard for a fun conversation about her 16th studio album, Southern Comfort!  The record features a collective of all star special guests including Buddy Miller, Randal Bramblett, Will Kimbroug, Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke, Rick Richards and Joey Huffman of the Georgia Satellites, and features five songs co-written with legendary songwriter Dean Dillon! Learn more about Michelle Malone at https://www.michellemalone.com  Podcast producer and host Billy Hubbard is an Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a company that published a Grammy winning song. Billy is also a signed artist with Spectra Music Group and co-founder of the iconic venue "The Station" in East TN. Billy's album was released by Spectra Records in Oct 2023. Learn more about Billy at http://www.BillyHubbard.com and stream/purchase his music at https://orcd.co/billyhubbardSupport the showIf you'd like to support My Backstage Pass you can make a donation to Billy & L

Paul Kelly is one of the leading artists making music in Australia and given his remarkable legacy —  consisting of some 29 albums and a career that extends back nearly four decades — he rightfully deserves his place on that pantheon. His new album, Fever Longing Still, marks his first new collection in six years, not counting the various compilations and collections that have helped to reinforce his status as a remarkable singer/songwriter worthy of international repute. Recorded in tandem with longtime collaborators — Peter Luscombe (drums), Bill McDonald (bass), Dan Kelly (guitar), Cameron Bruce (keys), and Ash Naylor (guitar) — it may come across as more of a band effort overall, but it continues to provide the sardonic wit that Kelly is so well known for. His songs are always profoundly engaging, and whether opting for a jaunty reprieve, arched enthusiasm, a mix of tenderness and tenacity to an equal degree. The fact that the album title is lifted from a work by William Shakespeare, one of Kell

Rachael Sage sometimes seems like a force of nature. A distinctive and expressive artist, she could also be considered as one of the individuals at the forefront of the women's movement, having founded her own record label, MPress, being named a six-time Independent Music Award winner, as well as a John Lennon Contest Grand Prize winner. She’s shared stages with an eclectic array of other artists, performed at the Edinburgh Fringe festival, SXSW, and toured internationally. Her brand of provocative alt-folk is both adventurous and appealing, as illustrated by the fact that her 2020 album Character brought her a charting single, "Blue Sky Days,” while her subsequent project, Poetica, found her fusing poetry, jazz, classical music and Americana in a way that brought to mind an unlikely alliance between Leonard Cohen and Laurie Anderson.Her most recent efforts, aptly titled Another Side, finds her toning down her quirkier qualities and aiming instead for a more melodic perspective, sharing a series of songs

Note from My Backstage Pass producer and host Billy Hubbard - After hearing the sad news of the passing of our legendary producer/engineer friend Jim Gaines on November 9th 2024, I wanted to re-release this episode of our conversation from May 2023 in Jim's honor.In a recording career spanning some fifty years, bridging a range in time and style that reaches from the early days at Memphis’s Stax Records to Carlos Santana’s eight-Grammy year in 2000 and beyond, producer Jim Gaines has operated the mixing board for some of the greatest artists in American music. Journey, Huey Lewis and the News, Steve Miller, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Dionne Warwick are just a few of the influential musicians who have entrusted their creativity and talent to his proven abilities. Podcast host Lee Zimmerman recently authored the book "Thirty Years Behind The Glass" about Jim Gaines. Podcast producer and host Billy Hubbard is an Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a company that published a Gramm

It’s little wonder why Grammy Award winning guitarist, vocalist, producer, and band leader Warren Haynes has been hailed by every major publication worldwide. As a solo artist, member of the Allman Brothers Band and leader of the group Gov’t Mule, his accomplishments have been stirring the senses of audiences for better than 40 years. His new solo album, Million Voices Whisper,  is already ranked as one of the best efforts of his career, and it's little wonder why. His passionate performances on each and every track offer a call for unity and optimism that’s sorely needed in this divided world. It expresses the positivity of change and looking forward to the future through a new lens – one that starts within. At the same time, Haynes hasn’t forgotten the victims of Hurricane Helene, the storm that ravished parts of his native North Carolina. An upcoming fundraiser on 11/24/2024 at Madison Square Garden with Dave Matthews and a list of special guests will raise funds to help those distressed communi

Grayson Capps is an intuitive songwriter, but on his latest album — his seventh to date — he backtracks to his earliest influences with an affecting set of covers that he became enamored with early on. Titled Heartbreak, Misery & Death, the album finds the Alabama based artist culling classic tracks from the likes of Gordon Lightfoot, Jerry Jeff Walker, Doc Watson, and Randy Newman while apply his own Southern Gothic verve and vitality that’s become a keynote touchstone of his music over the course of his career. While the title may seem somewhat intimidating, it aptly describes the themes shared in these songs and the inherent emotions that stirred Grayson even in his youth. Grayson discusses the origin of his inspiration in his chat with Lee and Billy on this current edition of My Backstage Pass. It’s an insightful conversation and one that offers a full explanation of the track Grayson took in formulating his career. In other words, it’s a discussion that’s well worth witnessing. Learn more abo

Reckless Kelly boasts an indomitable career all their own. Led by brothers Willy (vocals/guitar) and Cody Braun (vocals/fiddle/mandolin/harmonica), they’re often referred to as an “alternative country-rock” outfit, but in truth they’re much more than that broad description otherwise implies. The group first formed in Stanley, Idaho in February 1996 and then moved toAustin, Texas, where they quickly became one of the leading lights of that fabled music scene. The Brauns, who got their start by touring with their dad in his Western swing band, Muzzie Braun and the Boys, also include lead guitarist Casey Pollock, bass guitarist Chris Schelske and drummer Jay Nazz. Of course, anytime a label is put on a particular artist or ensemble, it tends to confine them to a particular genre. Braun offers his own perspective on the ramifications of being typecast in any one particular way. “It’s been interesting to watch the terminology evolve over the course of the last 30 years,” he once told an interviewer.

Cody Braun is one of the guiding lights in Reckless Kelly, a band long known as one of the beacons of Austin’s much fabled music scene. Along with his brother Willy, he’s played an essential role in the 17 studio albums the band’s released over the course of the past 30 years, all in addition to being an astute producer and multi-instrumentalist as well. It’s little surprise then that the band’s new album, The Last Frontier shows off his skills to the fullest. As always, it’s fueled by earnest intent in the form of fiery rockers and the occasional sobering sentiment. Those attributes came quite naturally considering that he and his brother inherited their genes from musical forebears — specifically their father and grandfather. That family factor seems well in keeping with Reckless Kelly’s musical mantra, which, despite its lengthy history, has always maintained clear consistency.Lee and Billy have the pleasure of speaking with Cody on this new episode of My Backstage Pass as he shares his per

Join hosts Billy and Sarah Hubbard for a fun late night hangout with Billy Droze and his manager Donna Sue Roberts for a conversation filled with laughter! Born in Lafayette, Louisiana in 1986, the 10th of 12 children, Billy Droze grew up in Alabama knowing that music was his life as far back as he can remember. “It’s as if I was inserted with a computer chip that made my life revolve around music.” But the reason is just as likely the influence of his late father, Bob Droze, a dedicated country, gospel, and bluegrass musician who performed into his late 80s. Billy was on stage with his dad by the time he was 4 years old, and spent his childhood singing with him everywhere from churches to bluegrass festivals to honky-tonks, developing a passion for traditional country, gospel, and roots music that has influenced him ever since. He learned to play guitar when he was 12, and by the time he was 16, Billy’s dad had moved to Texas and he followed him there, spending a year or so playing with his band. Th

There’s an old saying, “Like father, like son.” Nevertheless, being the child of a famous parent can be a double edged sword. Certain doors may be opened but the expectations can run very high. That would especially seem the case when it comes to Ralph Stanley II and his famous father, a bluegrass pioneer. Nevertheless, the younger Stanley has proven that he’s well capable of carrying on his dad’s legacy. The elder Stanley groomed his son to carry on from an early age, and now, nearly 30 years after Ralph 2 first began working professionally with his father, he’s not only ascended to the helm of his signature band, The Clinch Mountain Boys, but also assembled a current incarnation of The Clinch Mountain Boys following his father’s passing. Ralph 2 can now claim a host of accolades all on his own, including a Grammy, six solo albums and nine number one singles. Ralph shared his thoughts about carrying on a tradition while also establishing his own identity when he spoke to Lee and Billy during th

By any description, Randall Bramblett can claim a varied career. Aside from the fact that he’s released no fewer than 15 solo albums, as a solo artist, he’s also been a much in-demand session player, having worked with Gregg Allman, Bonnie Raitt, Robbie Robertson, Elvin Bishop, Steve Winwood, Widespread Panic, and any number of others. That’s hardly surprising considering the fact that he’s a multi-instrumentalist who’s adept on keyboards, saxophones, flute, guitar, mandolin, and harmonica.Bramblett’s career dates back to the early ‘70s when he played a major role in the band Sea Level, a jazzy spin-off from the Allman Brothers Band. In the years since, he’s continued to pursue a decidedly varied array of genres, including rock, jazz, blues and R&B. With his new album, Paradise Breakdown, he shares a similar set of sounds, making it an ideal showcase for his verve and versatility. Learn more about Randall at https://randallbramblett.comPodcast producer/cohost Billy Hubbard is an Americana Sing

The milestone tenth studio album from folk-blues luminary Ruthie Foster, Mileage finds the singer-songwriter reflecting on a life that’s been full of professional triumphs, courtesy of a musical journey that took a self-described “little Black girl with a guitar” from singing at churches in rural Texas to chalking up multiple Grammy nominations. With this album in particular, Ruthie shares a collection of songs that was inspired by heartfelt conversations with producer Tyler Bryant and Rebecca Lovell, Bryant’s wife and one-half of the duo Larkin Poe. In that regard, Mileage was borne from a unique and very personal experience, one that found the music emerging organically and in ways that were both real and illuminating. The result is an album flush with creative synergy and symmetry, a snapshot of a career well spent.Consequently, Mileage also marks for a profound collaboration with the legendary Sun Records, one that allows Ruthie’s narrative to intertwine with the legendary label's rich tapestry

Rich Ulloa has always been passionate about music. That was evident early on when he established one of the most important independent record stores in the nation with Miami's Yesterday and Today Records. That led to the founding of Y&T Records, which gave birth to the Mavericks, Mary Karlzen and other seminal Florida artists that got their start courtesy of the label. In recent years, Y&T has achieved even greater prominence through several high profile releases, including an all-star tribute album saluting the legendary Eric Andersen and an ongoing series of unreleased Badfinger efforts offered through the cooperation of the Tom Evans and Pete Ham estates.  Rich talks with Lee and Billy about the evolution of the label, his current plans and the enthusiasm for music that brought him to  this point... and well beyond. Check out Y&T Records and their artists online at http://www.ytmusiconline.com/ and http://www.marykarlzen.net/Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in s

Wyatt Ellis shares his backstory and music from his debut album Happy Valley. Born not far from the Great Smoky Mountains, Wyatt Ellis' first recollection of hearing the mandolin was Bobby Osborne’s iconic solo on the Osborne Brothers’ bluegrass classic “Rocky Top.” Hearing the Tennessee bluegrass anthem echo throughout the early years of his childhood is what led Wyatt to set his sights on learning to play mandolin. With his schedule packed with school, Boy Scouts and team sports, it was hard to find time for music. The COVID lockdown began just as he was forging those real-life musical friendships. Team sports, local lessons and bluegrass jams came to an abrupt end. At the same time, festivals and in-person recording sessions suddenly stopped, parking the most in-demand bluegrass musicians at home. Many of his favorite mandolin players started teaching or simply spending more time connecting within the community online. In the fall of 2020, Wyatt was chosen by his hero Sierra Hull, herself a former

(Hear part 2 at this link https://www.buzzsprout.com/1300885/episodes/16246491 ) Join Billy Hubbard and his wife Sarah on this special episode with Author/Screenwriter Rich Carlburg and Singer Songwriter John Smith Presley, a man who has presented DNA and other convincing evidence to prove he is the son of Elvis Presley. John was born in 1961 and adopted and raised by an uncle and aunt of Elvis, Ira Dee and Etta Smith. (Note - Billy misspoke on the introduction saying John was raised by Gladys) John is the subject of a film about his life currently in the works based on Rich Carlburg’s book Let The Boy Sing. John is also part of a new Netflix documentary currently in production which is where we caught up with him today. Paul Cohen, a noted Hollywood investigator, has spent the last eight years collecting new and corroborating evidence John already possessed including verification of his birth certificate. The state of Texas had a systems glitch in 1961 the year John was born that caused the “D” in the

Charlie Overbey, once labeled the “Punk Rock Spy In The House Of Honky Tonk" by none other than Lemmy of Motorhead, has redefined the outlaw ethos of Americana music. That’s never been more evident than with the release of his new album, aptly titled In Good Company. A revisit to decades of writing and recording sessions from studios around the world, it is, in effect, the perfect summation of a career that stretches back nearly 30 years, with guest contributors that include such superstars as Nils Lofgren, Marcus King, Jaime Wyatt, Charlie Starr, Rami Jaffee, Jimmy Vivino, Duane Betts, Eddie Spaghetti, Chris Masterson, Danny B Harvey, and Sarah Gayle Meech, it confirms his standing as one of the more important figures in the cow punk movement…and more. A renaissance man of sorts, Charlie’s also made his name in the fashion industry with his well-received line of custom hats, Lone Hawk Hats, which finds him as a one man entrepreneur. They’ve been worn by artists such as Lainey Wilson, members of the

Simply stated, Steep Canyon Rangers rank among the upper echelon of today’s most prominent bluegrass bands. They’ve extended their musical template far beyond any confined parameters and into the realms of mass appeal, courtesy of songs that resonate with immediate accessibility and all the elements needed  to ensure populist appeal.The band's new album, Live at Greenfield Lake, is a perfect summation of their strengths and a true compendium of all the band has achieved in their career thus far. Recorded before a hometown crowd in Wilmington North Carolina, it finds the band — drummer, multi-instrumentalist and producer Mike Ashworth; singer, songwriter and banjo picker Graham Sharp; bassist and vocalist Barrett Smith; fiddler Nicky Sanders; singer and mandolin player Mike Guggino; and vocalist, guitarist and “new guy” Aaron Burdett — replaying songs from the band’s classic catalog and breathing fresh life into each of them in the process. The release of the new album provided a perfect opport

Grammy nominated artist Steve Forbert, best known for the classic "Romeo's Tune," is a true American musical treasure, a fact underscored by his newest album Daylight Savings Time, to be released on September 20, 2024 via Blue Rose Music. Like all his recordings of new songs, it's saturated with what renowned rock journalist Robert Christgau discerned as his "omnivorously observant" songwriting, marked by Steve's gift for finding the more profound meaning and magic within the spectrum of everyday moments of human existence and the character of the world around us as well as his abundant melodic and poetic enchantment."Like Warren Zevon, Gram Parsons, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Bruce Springsteen, Steve Forbert has left his unmistakable imprint on the landscape of American music," says American Songwriter. Like these esteemed creative souls, his work is marked by distinctive qualities all its own and speaks genuinely to his listeners.   Daylight Savings Time is Forbert's 21st album and third release helmed by

Although many people still think of him as the “And Oates” in the extraordinarily successful Hall & Oates, one of the best-selling duos of all time, John Oates stands on his own as a prolific singer, songwriter, producer, and solo artist. Not only was he responsible for writing or co-writing any number of the pair’s major hits — “Sara Smile,” “She’s Gone,” “Out of Touch,” “You Make My Dreams,” “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do),” and “Maneater,” among them — but he’s a an assured solo artist all on his own. Over the course of the past twenty years or so, he’s released a steady succession of individual albums that have helped broaden his parameters while also bringing him back to his roots in seminal Americana. A member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he continues to make his name all on his own, given that his prolific prowess continues to carry him from past to present. Oates’ new album Reunion finds him reconnecting with his past

The GRAMMY® Award-winning Americana quintet—Andy Falco [guitar], Chris Pandolfi [banjo], Andy Hall [dobro], Jeremy Garrett [fiddle], and Travis Book [double bass]—have musical influences that truly run the gamut, but their common denominator is certainly bluegrass -- the sound that has in essence defined the course of their career.The Infamous Stringdusters stand out as the rare group who can team up with contemporary artists on late night television one night and headline the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre or perform alongside The Grateful Dead’s Phil Lesh the next, and have recently emerged as proprietors behind their newly found independent record label, Americana Vibes. Manifesting an actual flock of impassioned fandom, much like those who paved the road before them, the band have attracted a faithful international audience that continues to grow. Moreover, their powerful music and performances paved the way for a GRAMMY® Award win in the category of “Best Bluegrass Album” for 2017’s Laws

Jon Langford was originally the drummer for the punk band The Mekons when it formed at the University of Leeds in 1977, but he later took up the guitar as other band members left. Since the mid-1980s he has been one of the leaders in incorporating folk and country music into punk rock. He has released a number of solo recordings as well as recordings with other bands outside of The Mekons, most notably the Waco Brothers, which he co-founded after moving to Chicago in the early 1990s. He is also involved with the Chicago-based independent record label Bloodshot.Langford is also a prolific and respected visual artist best known for his striking portraits of country music icons including Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. Since 2005 he has co-hosted a weekly radio program, “The Eclectic Company,” broadcast on WXRT 93.1 FM in Chicago, and has contributed to This American Life.Langford’s first official solo album, Skull Orchard, a look back at his hometown of Newport, Wales, was released in 1998.

Passion and persistence are key traits when it comes to finding success in today’s music realms. The band that goes by the name Uncle Lucius took that fact to heart after going on hiatus in 2018 and regrouping five years later. “We started getting this thing rolling in late 2005,” lead singer and songwriter Kevin Galloway tells Lee and Billy . “We put out our first album in 2006 and we had a great run through the year 2018. I set the band down and I said ‘You know what, I just think it's time to move on for 100 different reasons.’ And we talked about it in an amicable way and did like a seven month farewell thing. And then we dropped the mic in March of 2018 and moved on. I moved on to some solo things. The guys in the band were doing different projects and living different lives.”Nevertheless, as Galloway tells it, fate had other ideas in store. Three years after the band broke up, one of their songs, “Keep the Wolves Away,” which they had released in 2012, was tapped for the hit series “

There are some who still think of multi-instrumentalist John McEuen as the lively multi-instrumentalist who helped found the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in the mid ‘60s and then remained at the band’s helm for some 50 years. Nevertheless, after parting ways with the group in 2017 due to various personal and professional disagreements, he’s managed to carve out a vigorous and varied solo career — one which includes an autobiography, a role as host of the Acoustic Traveller radio program on Sirius/XM, a notable contribution to pal Steve Martin’s number one, Grammy-winning album The Crow: New Songs for the 5-String Banjo, and his own series of solo albums. His allegiance to tradition and the music bred in America’s heartland has always been foremost in his efforts, a fact that’s never been more obvious than on his latest LP, The Newsman, a series of striking spoken word narratives with instrumental accompaniment. McEuen shares his thoughts on the project -- and his career in general -- with Lee and Bil

Three time Blues Foundation Traditional Female Artist award winner, Sue Foley’s new album 'One Guitar Woman' is a heartfelt tribute to the female pioneers of the guitar - including Memphis Minnie, Lydia Mendoza, Maybelle Carter, Ida Presti, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. The album showcases the dexterity of Foley’s acoustic nylon string guitar skills as she expands on her blues playing into other genres like Piedmont fingerpicking, traditional country, flamenco and classical.“These are the women who were expressing themselves through the instrument as far back as the 1920’s, at the inception of radio and recorded music. They are the trailblazers and visionaries whose footsteps I walk in,” says Foley.In May 2023, Foley was awarded the Blues Music Award for Traditional Blues Female Artist (the Koko Taylor Award) in Memphis TN for the third time. She was also honored with Guitarist of the Year and Blues Act of the Year at the 2023 Austin Music Awards, and Guitarist of the Year at the 2023 Maple Blues Award

Few artists have achieved the kind of acclaim and achievement garnered by Lucinda Williams over the course of her career. Having composed the oft-covered song “Passionate Kisses,” often described as “an Americana classic,” she went on to release any number of landmark albums, among them, Sweet Old World and Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, all of which have made her one of the most celebrated performers of her time. She’s garnered three Grammys over the course of her career as well as 17 nominations, ranked high in practically every critic’s poll there ever was, received two Americana Awards, achieved exceptional status on rankings by both VH1 and Rolling Stone, received an Honorary Doctorate of Music from the Berkeley College of Music and named America’s Best Songwriter by Time magazine. Lee and Billy had the opportunity to talk with a woman who can clearly be considered a leading light in the world of Americana music. And what a wonderful conversation it was. Listen in as Lucinda provides listener

Although both Verlon Thompson and Shawn Camp claim notable credits as both singers and songwriters — with combined credits that include Willie Nelson, Barbara Mandrell, Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Anne Murray, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Del McCoury, Sam Bush, Trisha Yearwood, George Strait, Garth Brooks, and many more - each man played an important part in the career of the legendary seminal Texas icon, Guy Clark. Not only did they spend years in Clark’s company, as constant musical companions on tour and in the studio, but they played an essential role in helping to foster Clark’s legendary presence and positioning as one of the most important artists in the whole of the Americana spectrum.Indeed, their continuing collaborations reflect the honor and humility borne from their time spent in the company of Guy Clark.The two men graciously agreed to sit down in person with Lee and Billy for a very special edition of My Backstage Pass in which they shared th

With three decades of experience playing and touring with Outlaw Country and SoCal Rock luminaries like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson, Social Distortion, and X, Jesse Dayton takes a sonic synergy between Texas and Chicago Blues, courtesy of his new album, The Hard Way Blues. In Jesse Dayton’s reckoning, the Blues are anything that keeps you from your home. Whether that be a place, a person, or a state of mind. But the music of the Blues is what helps you navigate that journey home. It chronicles your hardships and heartaches, and when you ultimately succeed in your journey, it commemorates your strength and perseverance in overcoming The Hard Way Blues.Of course, blues and rock are natural bedfellows, especially nowadays with headliners like Joe Bonamassa and Tommy Emmanuel drawing stadium-sized crowds and competing for the commercial credibility once reaped by Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughn. In that regard, Dayton makes no apologies for his dynamic and driving sound. His mu

Irene Kelley’s love of music has been imbued in her memory practically from the very beginning. She became wholly entranced by it while hearing it for the first time in her dad’s basement TV repair workshop as a young girl. After hearing it around the house, the music became so imbued in her that she began writing music early on and joined her first band at the age of 15.In 1981, she made her big career leap when she was invited to join the bluegrass band Redwing as lead singer. She soon found herself performing at any number of major festivals and gaining major traction in the process. Her move to Nashville in 1984 added increased momentum and she was soon signed to MCA Nashville for whom she recorded her first album which also featured an all-star line-up in the persons of Sam Bush, Carl Jackson and Mark O’Connor.  She also found success as a songwriter, penning songs for the likes Alan Jackson, Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White, Loretta Lynn and Trisha Yearwood. Nevertheless, despite her accomplishment

Born and bred in Buffalo New York and a later transplant that calls Manhattan home, Willie Nile is the epitome of an urban warrior, a no-nonsense rock and roll loyalist whose urban sensibility evokes the fierce spirit of the city’s punk scene and its insurgent sensibility. Over the course of 14 studio albums and a near brush with widespread fame and notoriety that came courtesy of an early association with Arista Records, Nile admittedly had his share of setbacks, but his devotion to the relentless spirit of pure rock and roll has never wavered.Nile’s latest offering, Live at Daryl’s House Club remains true to that tack, spotlighting him in the environment that suits him best — that is, in front of an appreciative audience, one that allows him to let his free-spirited attitude run wild. In fact, there’s not a single song among this baker’s dozen that fails to reflect his workingman-like regimen, all of which are amplified in this stirring concert setting.Those that have followed Nile since his sem

The Young Fables (TYF) create music with storytelling weaved into Americana roots music with pop sensibilities. East Tennessee (Maryville) natives, Laurel Wright and Wes Lunsford are influenced by timeless treasures like Patsy Cline, Bonnie Raitt, Glen Campbell and Chet Atkins. The duo’s unique sound has resonated with audiences around the globe as live performances have become stages from which The Young Fables discuss themes and topics typically saved for the therapy couch. Strong advocates for mental health awareness, The Young Fables are focused on helping to erase the stigmas surrounding the topic. Recognizing the duo’s advocacy, the pair were honored with The Troy Gentry Compassion Award in 2021 for compassion, commitment, kindness and love.The couple has dropped 3 full length albums Two, Old Songs, and Pages (the latter two collaborations with GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Mitch Dane). Their sound - a whimsical, distinguishable classic country-meets-Americana pop blend - was praised by iconic art

Lee and Billy welcome Danny McCloskey, Co-owner of The Alternate Root music magazine, Desert Roots Music and a thirty-year-plus veteran of the music industry. From 1979 to 1985 he wrote and developed radio shows, developed programming and organized the yearly local music event ‘The Rock and Roll Rumble’ for legendary radio station WBCN in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1985, Danny joined Atlantic Records, handling services for Island and Virgin Records when under the Atlantic umbrella, as promotion manager for the Boston / New England region where he remained until 1990. Moving on to San Francisco in 1990, Danny managed a publicity firm, The Madera Group. He started his own firm, Next Step Promotion and Publicity in 1996 which later became Next Step Music Management handling artist management, music supervision, publishing and artist development. Songs With Vision started operations in 2002 focusing on film and television music placement for labels and independent artists and acting as a Music Supervisor for a

Amelia White’s reputation as one of Nashville’s most captivating singer songwriters has increased substantially with each and every new release. And for good reason. Assured and emotive, White’s songs come across with an authority and determination that gets straight to the heart of her sentiment and intents. Her new album, Love I Swore, offers a discourse  revolving around bracing emotional issues — the struggle to maintain core relationships, dealing with loss and loneliness, and, in particular, the difficulties and diversions encountered by road-weary musicians. Taken in tandem Love I Swore is a testament to White’s powers of persuasion — that is, her ability to involve the listener and leave behind an emphatic impression. It’s everything a set of songs should be — personal, provocative and flush with earnest emotion. As a result, White’s made a definitive statement and also the most defining album of her career. The love she swears to is clearly evident throughout.  Learn more about Am

Despite a storied career that found him firmly at the helm of the highly acclaimed East Tennessee-based band The Black Lillies, and prior to that, the primary back-up for singer Robinella, Cruz Contreras, in effect starting anew. His debut solo album Cosmico, finds him stepping out on his own and taking his music into a decidedly new direction. Borne from a personal perspective that is, by turns, both ethereal and emphatic, music conveyed through tone, texture and melodies that immediately crawl under the skin and then linger there in a perpetual haze. In this episode Cruz sits down with Lee Zimmerman and Billy Hubbard to discuss the stories behind the songs and this bold new chapter and what lies ahead. Learn more about Cruz Contreras at https://www.cruzcontreras.comHost Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Lee is a former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS affil

Within a year after getting his first guitar donated by his sister’s boyfriend, Jimmy Gilmer of Sugar Shack fame, Jim Parker was playing in a band and later became a founding member of The Illusions that landed a record deal with Dot Records. In 1966 he and his buddies decided to leave their hometown of Amarillo, Texas, and head to Los Angeles. During that time, The Illusions became “The Kitchen Cinq” recording with Lee Hazelwood’s LHI label for three years. This later led to jobs with other recording bands like Armageddon and THEM (post Van Morrison) with some studio work with Sonny and Cher and various recording artists on the side. Fifty years later, on August 28, 2015, AceRecords of the UK and its affiliate US label Light in the Attic Records released “The Kitchen Cinq, When the Rainbow Disappears”, as an anthology complete with a booklet of photos and history of the band.Moving to Nashville in 1975 was the beginning of another serendipitous phase of Jim’s career where he met a young John An

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless. Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven- album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories.His songs have appeared

This episode we have a conversation with songwriter, storyteller, multi-instrumentalist Rees Shad. Shad has been described as a master of alluring melodies and short story songs whose characters interact and reoccur in eloquent musical vignettes. An accomplished musician, composer, and creative, Shad has an impressive catalog of thirteen solo albums (with another dozen side projects) containing a wide range of music and narratives. Shad grew up absorbing the NYC music scene immersing himself in vintage blues, jazz, folk, country, classic rock and punk before moving to upstate New York to embrace a more rural lifestyle. An experienced studio engineer, musician, and producer, he has happily and determinedly iterated his craftsmanship over the decades, and his latest release, Tattletale contains some of his most compelling work to date. Learn more about Rees Shad at www.ReesShadMusic.com Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Le

In a recording career spanning some fifty years, bridging a range in time and style that reaches from the early days at Memphis’s Stax Records to Carlos Santana’s eight-Grammy year in 2000 and beyond, producer Jim Gaines has operated the mixing board for some of the greatest artists in American music. Journey, Huey Lewis and the News, Steve Miller, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Dionne Warwick are just a few of the influential musicians who have entrusted their creativity and talent to his proven abilities. Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Lee is a former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS affiliated television stations. Lee authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound," as well as his recent book about legendary producer and engineer Jim Gaines "Thirty Years Behind The Glass," both are now available on Amazon and other outl

Be sure to also hear parts 1 and 2 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He not only worked the records, but actually played a role in which songs would be released as singles and go on to become major hits. He helped define the strategy and eventual success of the many musicians he worked with and, in turn, helped create careers that became absolutely indelible within his realms of modern music.Lee worked with Steve during his own stint at Capitol Records and considers him a mentor. As a result, the conversation he and Billy had not only makes for an informative enco

Be sure to also hear parts 1 and 3 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He not only worked the records, but actually played a role in which songs would be released as singles and go on to become major hits. He helped define the strategy and eventual success of the many musicians he worked with and, in turn, helped create careers that became absolutely indelible within his realms of modern music.Lee worked with Steve during his own stint at Capitol Records and considers him a mentor. As a result, the conversation he and Billy had not only makes for an informative enco

Be sure to also hear parts 2 and 3 of Steve Meyer! Steve was more than just a record executive whose stint as National Promotion Director for Capitol Records and Universal/MCA made him one of the biggest power brokers in the music industry during '70s, '80s and '90s. He worked with the biggest names in the business -- The Beatles (and Paul McCartney and John Lennon individually), Bob Seger, Steve Miller, Elton John, Little River Band, and so many other artists who defined Top 40 and Album-Oriented radio for all time. He not only worked the records, but actually played a role in which songs would be released as singles and go on to become major hits. He helped define the strategy and eventual success of the many musicians he worked with and, in turn, helped create careers that became absolutely indelible within his realms of modern music.Lee worked with Steve during his own stint at Capitol Records and considers him a mentor. As a result, the conversation he and Billy had not only makes for an informative enco

A conversation with the Ireland based band Seafoam Green as they bring their Americana Roots Roadshow across the Atlantic for their 2023 US tour. Learn more about Seafoam Green at http://www.seafoamgreenband.com/ What others are saying about Seafoam Green:- Classic Rock Magazine “Stunning...9/10”, - Country Music Magazine ★★★★★ - Mojo Magazine - “Near faultless album" "Seafoam Green are Irish band Dave O'Grady and Muireann McDermott Long. The pair specialise in what we now call Americana. If you want blues, gospel, and folk, they’ve got it, but what they’ve actually perfected across two albums and countless live shows is the sound of a glorious rock n’ soul revival.  Seafoam Green even find room for a dash of Dublinese, just to remind people where they’re coming from. Heavy hitters like Rich Robinson, Derek Trucks, and Tyler Greenwell have all chipped in, and it’s not hard to hear why, for this is thrilling, vital, and – that word again - soulful music."Pat Carty - Hot Press Ma

American singer, songwriter and pianist Linda Gail Lewis, often referred to as "The True Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," is the little sister to legendary musical genius, Jerry Lee Lewis. Raised on rock'n'roll pumping piano and country, Linda Gail grew up with a passion for music. She has recorded with Stephen Ackles, Van Morrison, her brother Jerry Lee Lewis as well as her two daughters MaryJean Ferguson and Annie Marie Dolan.  Linda is married to Eddie Braddock, former Stax promotions director. A professional musician since fifteen, she continues to tour sharing her high octane live show with music fans around the world. Check out Linda online at https://www.lglmusic.comHost Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Lee is a former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS affiliated television stations. Lee recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of a

You don't want to miss this conversation with Charlie Overbey, an accomplished LA born and raised singer songwriter and maker of high quality hats! Charlie's soulful songs are steeped in the timeless traditions of the American South. He has toured the world supporting acts ranging from David Allan Coe and Blackberry Smoke to Social Distortion and Motorhead. His Lone Hawk Hats are popular with famous celebrities, musicians, and actors as well as the average person looking for a cool one of a kind top quality hat. Tim McGraw and Faith Hill can be seen wearing Charlie's hats in the popular TV series 1883.There's much more to learn more about Charlie Overbey's music at https://charlieoverbey.com and his company Lone Hawk Hats at https://lonehawkhats.com Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Lee is a former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS affiliated television s

Some careers can be described with a couple of words, but Shawn Camp's isn't one of them. A bold and distinctive singer, a songwriter who's provided material for artists ranging from Ralph Stanley, Del McCoury and Ricky Skaggs to Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Porter Wagoner, Loretta Lynn and Brooks & Dunn, with hits such as “Two Pina Coladas” (Garth Brooks), “Nobody But Me” (Blake Shelton), “Would You Go With Me” (Josh Turner), “River Of Love” (George Strait), and Billy Currington’s hit single “Love Done Gone”. Along with being a hit writer, he is a gifted multi-instrumentalist who's played as a touring/recording musician with everyone from Jerry Reed, Trisha Yearwood, Shelby Lynn, and Alan Jackson to the Osborne Brothers, Guy Clark and John Prine. Camp also co-produced a compilation tribute album for his friend and hero Guy Clark, which was #1 on the Americana Charts for several weeks in the spring of 2012, and voted Americana Album Of The Year 2012. Entitled, Guy Clark: This One's For

Lee Zimmerman's Songs & Stories Series is a new musical experience (think Actor's Studio for artists) with live music, conversations, and audience Q&A's all while live taping "My Backstage Pass" podcast. This episode features singer songwriter Trisha Gene Brady! Knoxville, Tennessee native Trisha Gene Brady’s seven-year run as vocalist and instrumentalist for The Black Lillies has seen her take the stage of the Grand Old Opry more than thirty times and perform for crowds at Bonnaroo, SXSW, & Pickathon. With vocals as sweet as southern ice tea, and impressive chops as a multi instrumentalist, Brady is embarking on new adventures as one sweetheart of a solo act. -Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion.Learn more about Trisha Gene Brady at https://trishagene.com/about Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated televis

Verlon Thompson îs the real deal, not only as far as the stories behind his songs, but also the sincerity he invests in his emotions. Born and raised on the Oklahoma plains, the breeding ground for such revered American songwriters as Woody Guthrie, Roger Miller, Leon Russell, J.J. Cale and Jimmy Webb, he incorporates the rich fabric of emotional authenticity in his tender tales of a life well-lived. As a solo performer, and, for nearly 20 years, the musical sidekick of legendary Texas singer/songwriter Guy Clark, with whom he shared stages worldwide. Since Clark’s passing in 2016, Verlon has continued to carry the torch, while also garnering widespread acclaim all on his own. His compositions have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Anne Murray, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Del McCoury, Sam Bush, and Trisha Yearwood, but it’s reputation as a tireless troubadour continues unabated.Mixing humor and poignancy in equal measure, Verlon connects with his a

In many ways, The HawtThorns — a thoroughly dynamic duo consisting of husband and wife Johnny and KP Hawthorn — find a perfect blend of melody and magic, one that incorporates the sunny sounds of classic California rock blended with the rich resonant sounds of today’s Americana musical environs. Now, with their stirring second album Tarot Cards and Shooting Stars, the couple ratchet up the quotient of ambience and engagement, sharing songs that shimmer, shine and create an immediate impression.In that sense, The HawtThorns effectively replicate the shared sentiments of a gilded age decades ago when optimism and engagement served a prime purpose. Both Johnny and KP have extensive experience on their own that was accumulated prior to their eventual union. It’s that culled credibility that contributes to the success of this sophomore set, making their new album the revealing effort it is. Learn more about the HawtThorns on line at https://www.thehawtthorns.comHost Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music write

Recorded Live at The Station - Greg Garing has gained notoriety for his mastery of every stringed instrument, and for having a stage presence second to none. The Man in Black himself, Johnny Cash, called Greg "The best country singer I heard in 30 years." A Nashville music critic described Greg as "a veritable hurricane on stage" with his natural ability to play and sing anything. His performance raises goosebumps and inspires gasps of wonder when he channels the Great American Music Muse — mixing up classic country, blues, bluegrass, jazz and more according to his personal recipe. He truly is a living legend and is considered one of the most prolific entertainers of our time. By the young age of 20, Greg was playing with every country and bluegrass superstar on the Nashville scene, including Bill Monroe, Roy Acuff, Hank Snow, Jimmy Martin, and many other legends who were 3 or 4 times his age. In 1997 his first solo album "Alone" was named #6 best album of the year by The New York Times. Host Lee Zimmerma

Acclaimed Nashville singer/songwriter Dana Cooper - Recorded live December 1, 2021 at The Bird and the Book café in Maryville Tennessee. Dana is a recipient of the Heritage Musician award from the Pilgrim Center for the Arts, Folk Alliance International's 2015 Spirit of Folk award and numerous Best of the Year kudos for both album and individual excellence, he’s performed at any number of major festivals, venues and gathering places where the folk faithful tend to gather in order to express appreciation and admiration for those that carry that tradition forward. So too, his songs have been covered by a veritable who’s who of today’s leading lights — Maura O’Connell, Pierce Pettis, Susan Werner, Claire Lynch and Trout Fishing in America, among them. His career trajectory extends back nearly 50 years, beginning with his eponymous major label debut in 1973. To date, he’s released no less than 15 albums, including four this past decade alone. His new album, I Can Face the Truth, will be released earl

Ray Stevens is known mostly as a musical funnyman, no surprise really considering the novelty songs that he took to the top of the charts during a successful string of hits that dominated the radio waves throughout the 1960s. These days, songs such as “Ahab the Arab,” “The Streak” and “Gitarzan” might not find favor with those of a politically correct persuasion, but back in the day, they established Stevens as an artist with a clear affinity for sarcasm and satire. Indeed, after a career that spans some 65 years, Stevens remains committed to the cause of keeping his listeners entertained and engaged. After beginning his musical journey strictly as a songwriter, he got his big break when he was signed to Mercury Records in 1961, and it was there that he gained fame not only for the aforementioned comedy classics, but also with several “serious” songs as well — among them, “Everything Is Beautiful” and “Misty.” They were both big crossover hits that helped to establish him as both a c

Melanie Safka — generally referred to by her first name only — epitomized the persona of the eternal flower child, a shy, waif-like woman whose memorable appearance at Woodstock summed up the sentiments of the time — innocent, unassuming and with songs that resonated with the optimism of the age. Her work shared that sweet sensibility, as reflected in songs such as “Beautiful People,” “Brand New Key,” “Peace Will Come,” and “What Have They Done to My Song, Ma,” among the many.Now celebrating the 50th anniversary reissue of her landmark album Gather Me, as well  as the half century reissue of her classic song “Brand New Key,” Melanie shares her story with "My Backstage Pass" as she looks back on a career that spawned well over 40 albums, some of which were released on her own record label, Neighborhood Records. That in itself was was an unheard of accomplishment at the time, one that came about as the result of her decision to defy her record company, ensure ownership of her material

Dolly Parton said about Billy Droze - “When your beautiful wife gave me your CD I listened to it and was very, very impressed. You have all the talent in the world and I hope they love your music as I do. Love, Dolly” At only 35 years of age, Billy Droze has acquired the title of “hit songwriter” and has been touring and making music non-stop for more than a decade. This truly unique artist and highly prolific songwriter, with lyrics that dig deep into the heart of life, melodies and a guitar style that combine his traditional roots with a modern twist that’s all his own, and a voice so beautiful, earthy and sincere that every song gives you goose bumps, has already been solidly received by both fans, industry leaders and musical peers. Droze was considered for the prestigious 2018 Grammy Awards along with the IBMA and ICMA Awards. Together with bluegrass superstar Rhonda Vincent, he hosted the 2018 ICMA Awards at the historic Grand Ole Opry House. His name is becoming synonymous among Folk, Ameri

If you haven't discovered the incredible Liverpool based artist Robert Vincent, you are certainly in for a treat! Since his debut album ‘Life in Easy Steps’ in 2013, Robert Vincent from Liverpool has been one of the most acclaimed new voices in Americana, Country and Folk. Having received the inaugural Emerging Artist Award from ‘Whispering’ Bob Harris in 2016 – who described Vincent as “absolutely magnetic”, Vincent was then invited onto BBC4’s ‘Old Grey Whistle Test: For One Night Only’. That performance marked a real breakthrough for Vincent, establishing him as one of the UK’s leading lights in Americana and propelling him to #1 in the iTunes Country chart. On Robert's latest offering ‘In This Town You’re Owned’, he returns with his most relevant album to date, produced by Brit Award winning Ethan Johns – who has won acclaim for his production work with, amongst others, Paul McCartney, Ray LaMontagne, Laura Marling, Kings of Leon, The Boxer Rebellion, The Staves, Gilbert O

This episode our guest is a man well known as one of the most prolific forces behind the early ‘60s folk revival and a champion of civil rights during the decades that came after. His name is Noel Paul Stookey, the "Paul" who was an essential part of the trio known throughout the world as Peter, Paul and Mary. Always served on the front lines when it comes to advocacy and education, he, along with Peter Yarrow and the late Mary Travers, helped bring those populist precepts into the modern era in the midst of a tidal wave of social change that swept across America and the world throughout the iconic era of the 1960s. The group also played a critical role as part of the transition to modern music, sharing the songs of Bob Dylan, John Denver and Pete Seeger with audiences that were, up until that point, often unawares. Following the death of Mary Travers in 2009, Stookey doubled down on a solo career he intimated in 1971 with his Paul And album, and he’s been at it ever since. His latest album, the aptly tit

This episode of My Backstage Pass we speak with singer and songwriter Bruce Sudano. Mentored early on by pop wiz Tommy James of Tommy James and the Shondells fame, Bruce Sudano was one of those fortunate few who was able to achieve a parallel career as both an artist and songsmith. He achieved his greatest glories by way of the material made famous by others — among them, the Jacksons, Dolly Parton and his late wife, Donna Summer. Nevertheless, he was seduced by the stage early on, and his initial efforts with the bands Alive N Kickin’ and Brooklyn Dreams netted him a recording contract and led to his first solo album, The Fugitive Kind in 1981. In the meantime, he formed a personal and professional relationship with disco diva Donna Summer for whom he penned the smash hit “Bad Girls.” It proved a highly lucrative collaboration; aside from the series of songs Summer went on to record, Sudano was also able to contribute to several successful soundtracks —“Thank God It’s Friday,” “The Hollywoo

On this edition of My Backstage Pass, we talk with Chuck McDermott, an artist who spent much of his career backing legendary singer/songwriter John Stewart, the man behind such hits as “Daydream Believer,” Runaway Train” and “Gold.” He talks with us about his return to recording after spending his early years with the pioneering Americana band Wheatstraw and the years he spent with John Stewart, resulting in a reignited quest to make his own music, beginning with his last album, 2017’s Gin & Rosewater, and culminating in his latest effort, a seven song EP titled 38 Degrees and Raining. We hope you’ll join us for this compelling conversation with a man who is finally receiving the attention he so decidedly deserves. Learn more about Chuck McDermott and experience his music at ChuckMcDermott.com Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of co

In this episode we have a great conversation with film and music Producer/Director/Writer Tamara Saviano about her new Guy Clark, Susanna Clark, and Townes Van Zandt documentary "Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark." The 95-minute documentary follows Guy Clark, Susanna Clark, and Townes Van Zandt as they rise from obscurity to reverence: Guy, the Pancho to Van Zandt’s Lefty, struggling to establish himself as the Dylan Thomas of American music, while Susanna pens hit songs and paints album covers for top artists, and Townes spirals in self-destruction after writing some of Americana music’s most enduring and influential ballads. Based on the diaries of Susanna Clark and Saviano’s 2016 book Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark, the film tells the saga from Susanna’s point of view, with Academy Award- winner Sissy Spacek voicing Susanna’s narration. Saviano, a longtime figure on the Americana scene as a journalist, artist manager, and Grammy-

In this episode Lee & Billy have a conversation with singer songwriter EmiSunshine who was 16 years old at the time! Billy's YouTube video of Emi in 2014 (Emi Sunshine "Folsom Prison Blues") quickly garnered over 3 million views!Emi has been attracting national attention since she was 9 years old ("Today," "Little Big Shots," the Grand Ole Opry, etc.) In 2018, Emi was featured in the Grammy-nominated (for soundtrack) Elvis Presley documentary "The King," for which she wrote and performed two original songs while riding in the backseat of Elvis' 1963 Rolls-Royce.In 2019, Emi received The ASCAP Foundation Desmond Child Anthem Award, which recognizes one young artist each year for musical excellence. Emi's most recent album, "Family Wars," was produced by 4-time Grammy winner Tony Brown in Nashville, and was released in 2019. Recently, Emi formed a new band called Strong Armed Robbers, with her dad, Randall Hamilton, and Fish Fisher, with whom Emi has written many songs. The band's debut album is expected to be

Billy's cohost Lee Zimmerman interviews Chris Robinson lead singer and founding member of the Black Crowes!Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East Tennessee, recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound" which is now available on Amazon and other outlets. Cohost/Producer Billy Hubbard is a Tennessee based Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a Grammy winning company, as well as a music and podcast producer. Billy is also the venue developer and booking manager of The Station in East Tennessee. As an artist Billy is endorsed by Godin's Simon & Patrick Guitars and his YouTube channel has over 3 million viewers. You can find Billy Hubbard online at http://www.BillyHubbard.com Support

In this episode we're chatting with the legendary Pam Tillis! Pam is a 3-time CMA award winner, including the prestigious 1994’s Female Vocalist Of The Year Award, and being nominated multiple times for Grammy’s Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1993 for “Maybe It Was Memphis, in 1996 for “Mi Vida Loca” and in 1998 for “All The Good Ones Are Gone”. Pam is also proud to be a 9-time Academy of Country Music Award nominee, a 2-time Grammy award winner and 6-time Grammy nominee, and an American Music Award’s nominee. Most recently, Pam has celebrated an IBMA award win in 2004 for Recorded Event Of The Year “Livin’ Lovin’ Losin’” and most recently a 2012 IBMA Song Of The Year nomination for co-writing, Dale Ann Bradley’s “Somewhere South Of Crazy”.  Pam has performed on the stages of Broadway in New York, modeled on the pages of Glamour Magazine and is a proud member of The Grand Ole Opry. As well as singing, Tillis has acted in guest spots on television and on stage. In 199

A conversation with Nashville Bluesman Billy Prine, the younger brother of the late great John Prine, and Billy's music producer Michael Dinallo! Billy Prine formed and led his first bar band in Chicago at the tender age of twelve. Chicago in the 1960’s and early 1970’s was wide open, just as FM radio was evolving, with all types of music, but especially the blues from the famed Chess Records and country music with the National Barn Dance, which was a precursor to the Grand Ole Opry.  Growing up in such a rich musical city allowed Billy to develop his unique style of American roots music and absorb a myriad of influences firsthand by seeing Buck Owens and the Buckaroos, The Rolling Stones and Chicago’s innumerable blues legends such as Howlin’ Wolf, Paul Butterfield, Muddy Waters, Michael Bloomfield, and many more.As any true child of the late 60’s and early 70’s, Billy headed west ~ "go west young man" ~ to California. Playing in bands in California for several years before heading back east ag

A conversation with iconic harmonica player Charlie McCoy! Charlie has played on dozens of hit records, including Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash. George Jones, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, Perry Como, Joan Baez, Steve Miller Band, Kris Kristofferson, Paul Simon, Barefoot Jerry, on Ringo Starr's 'Beaucoups of Blues', and many more! At the height of his activity, McCoy played on over 400 recording sessions per year. He played guitar on Dylan's "Desolation Row", from the album Highway 61 Revisited; and "Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands", from the album Blonde on Blonde; bass guitar (on all the tracks from Bob Dylan's John Wesley Harding); keyboards, and drums plus several wind and brass instruments. For 19 years McCoy worked as music director for the popular television show Hee Haw and was a member of the Million Dollar Band, a group of all-star session musicians who performed on the show. The solo work of this Country Music Hall Of Fame member is contained on more than three dozen albums that Charlie has rel

In this episode your hosts Lee Zimmerman & Billy Hubbard take you backstage for a conversation with Emily, Daniel, and Max of the Wildeyes Band! Check out this incredible band online at https://wildeyesband.com/Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East Tennessee, recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound" which is now available on Amazon and other outlets. You can contact Lee at [email protected]/Producer Billy Hubbard is a Tennessee based Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a Grammy winning company, as well as a music and podcast producer. Billy is also the venue developer and booking manager of The Station in East TN. As an artist Billy is endorsed by Godin's Simon & Pa

In this episode your hosts Lee Zimmerman & Billy Hubbard take you backstage for a conversation with singer songwriter Thomas Gabriel, the eldest grandson of Johnny Cash! Thomas talks about his own music and memories of growing up with his iconic grandfather. Learn more about Thomas Gabriel online at https://www.thomasgabrielofficial.com/  Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS - affiliated television stations. Lee, who currently lives in East Tennessee, recently authored "Americana Music - Voices, Visionaries & Pioneers of an Honest Sound" which is now available on Amazon and other outlets. You can contact Lee at [email protected]/Producer Billy Hubbard is a Tennessee based Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a Grammy winning company, as well as a music and podcast producer. Bi