Americana Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

As Robert Earl Keen & team look forward to more touring, a new record, and a new season of the Americana Podcast, join us as we take a moment to look back, in order to look forward for what’s to come. This episode contains the previous season’s best-of moments from the 51st State. Hear conversation clips from bluegrass genre-bender Billy Strings (01:41), American Aquarium's BJ Barham (08:56), modern day troubadour Brent Cobb (14:45), REK’s good friend and touring pal Elizabeth Cook (18:23), zen-master and songsmith Jim Lauderdale (21:54), the everywoman wonderwoman Lori McKenna (29:38), wild and wonderful Todd Snider (33:21) , and the unmistakable baritone of Jake Smith aka White Buffalo (43:17). We also have insight from Will Vogt (41:28), long-time friend, contributor, and supporter of Americana Podcast.

Consider this 5-Year Anniversary recap as your “CliffNotes”, something to study up on before we begin to release next season’s episodes in April 2025, which will feature more of what you’ve come to expect and love about the podcast: in-depth and candid conversations about the craft of songwriting within the greater Americana genre with our trusted and time-tested host, Robert Earl Keen. As well as a very exciting sneak peek from Robert himself about the future of Americana Podcast, and where we are growing and evolving with the genre for the future!!

o    Billy Strings (01:41)

o    BJ Barham (08:56)

o    Brent Cobb (14:45)

o    Elizabeth Cook (18:23)

o    Hiss Golden Messenger (21:48)

o    Jim Lauderdale (24:54)

o    Lori McKenna (29:38)

o    Todd Snider (33:21)

o    Vince Herman (37:50)

o    Will Vogt (41:28)

o    White Buffalo (43:17)

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

Hello and welcome Americana Podcast listeners to a very special and celebratory episode. Long time listeners and new friends, we are so excited to share with you that as of April 29, 2024- we are celebrating the 5th Anniversary of this show. It has been such an honor to have been documenting the story of Americana through the artist’s lens. And we’ve heard some incredible stories, from Billy Strings to Lori McKenna, to Shinyribs and most recently Hiss Golden Messenger. From the young blood of Jamestown Revival to the stalwart rockers in the image of Jim Lauderdale. We’ve only scratched the surface of what makes Americana what it is today and what its future can only hold. As we mark a momentous occasion, five years of weaving tales and tunes, let us embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of our show's legacy.

To honor this milestone, we are joined by one of the true luminaries of the Americana scene. First, a troubadour whose name is synonymous with the genre, a man whose songs echo with the spirit of the American heartland, the one and only Ray Wylie Hubbard. I know I’ve been your temporary host for a while so the celebration doesn't stop there. Also returning to the show is our very own, revered songwriter whose wit and wisdom have endeared him to audiences far and wide, the incomparable Robert Earl Keen. Together, they represent the very essence of Americana, embodying its spirit and sound with every chord and lyric.

Live from KNBT’s Roots and Branches show- join us as Ray Wylie Hubbard, Robert Earl Keen, and Americana radio pioneer Mattson Rainer recount their songwriting journey, the passion for music, and indulge us in some very special performances (this is a long show- but I can assure you it is worth every minute).

So join us as we raise a toast to the history of our show, to five years of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of musical truth. I’m your producer Clara Rose, and this is Americana Podcast- the 51st State 

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

If it’s one thing that we love here at americana podcast, it is the concept of the artistic process. We’re not alone in this, it seems that when anyone speaks about artists, musical, visual, conceptual- you name it- one of the first things people will go into or ask about, is how a piece of art came to exist.

We’ve been doing it for three years on this show. 

And even when you ask an artist “how did you do this?” There’s no guarantee you’re going to get a straight answer. If anything, in the interest of mystique- you’re more likely to be left with more questions about creation than you are to be given clarity. 

Our curiosity about the subject is inherently curious. If it present, if it already exists for us to view, or listen to or think about, why do we care how it got there? 

That feels like a much deeper question that a philosopher would probably be able to answer. But as a semi-professional music lover with a microphone, I think it’s because the artistic process reminds us that art, no matter it’s shape, is still inherently human. That it is subject to the time, and strengths, and limitations, and abilities of the one who makes it. The artist lives a life, inherently creates based on that experience, and then puts those creations out into the world to say “I’ve made this”.

It’s a very human process. And even when it’s difficult to like humanity, it is easy to love that which reminds us that we’re still human. 

On today’s episode, we welcome an artist who embraces that humanity and pursues creation and the artistic process. Enough to have made 34 records so far in his career. Jim Lauderdale, a native of Troutman, South Carolina released his first record in 1991. A natural collaborator, he’s worked with the likes of Rodney Crowell, Buddy Miller, Nick Lowe, and Roland White. And he’s had songs cut by everyone from Elvis Costello to George Straight. And like anyone in the music industry, he’s had ups and downs. And he’d be the first to tell you. 

In just a few moments of being in a room with Lauderdale, it is difficult not be struck by his kindness and forthcoming nature (he’s also a bit of a prankster, I found out the hard way). 

So Join us on this episode as our host Robert Earl Keen, speaks with Jim Lauderdale about the artistic process, the documented phenomenon of “the Jim Lauderdale effect”, and more.

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

Over the course of nearly three years, we at Americana podcast have spoken with a wonderful collective of artists and industry professionals alike about the workings in and of this ever expanding umbrella of music we lovingly refer to as Americana music. Parts of that discussion have at times touched on its history- but we have never really broached the subject of its early days and what that entailed. And who exactly was there at the beginning. 

With that in mind, we’ve decided to shake it up a bit and welcome longstanding Americana advocate and friend Rob Bleetstein. Bleetstein in casual circles, is a music lover. A long time ticket collecting, road junkie, band following fan if there ever was one.  Which all tracks for an original deadhead mind you- but he’s not someone stuck completely in the past either. Driven by just the desire to hear good music- there isn’t an artist old or young on the scene that he seemingly doesn't already know about. And if you happen to somehow introduce him to someone he hasn’t heard of- he’ll send you what can only be described as an essay or a review of his thoughts on their first two records in addition to the direction their heading with their next one. You can’t beat him. 

Professionally, Bleetstein’s credentials range from publicist, archivist, and currently producer and host on Pearl Jam Radio and the Grateful Dead Channel on Sirius XM. What he is to Americana as a genre though… well he was one of the early, if not original adopters of the term when he worked at the Gavin Report in the 90’s. Rob Bleetstein is not only a music lover- but a true music shaper. 

So Join us as our host Robert Earl Keen speaks with Rob Bleestetin about the early days of Americana, his experiences as a long-time music lover, his contributions, and what’s on the horizon of the genre

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

This show is going to be a little different from our usual programming. As I’m sure you’ve noticed- we’ve taken a little bit of a break over the last few months as we’ve taken the time to regroup, and reconstruct etc. As we move forward, it is important to us to reiterate that we are still very much dedicated as a platform to the expansion and definition of Americana Music through conversations with those working within its spectrum.

This show has come a very long way from its initial launch. From interview formatting, the artists we book, the kind of questions we ask, and the locations we’ve been- it's grown and expanded in ways I don’t think we could have ever imagined. And admittedly, sometimes it's hard to appreciate the work we’ve done as we look at the work we want to do. 

As we plot out that future, we wanted to take this time and opportunity to look back on some of our favorite moments that we’ve had. In our very first Artist's Archive, we go back to the very beginning and revisit some of the best times with artists we love and cover everything from the hardest conversations to the most rewarding laughs and all topped off with the music we all love so well. We hope you enjoy this nod to our past and continue to join us as we look (or should I say listen) to the future.

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

We’ve all heard the common phrase “a master of none” in reference to an individual who is seemingly versatile, flexible, and knowledgeable in their pursuits. Regardless of what they are. We’re not surprised when an artist is an avid reader nor are we shocked when a mathematician takes an interest in subjects like music. The term “master of none” alone, suggests that having multiple interests and being good at them is part of the deal. In today’s vernacular a “master of none” is good at most things but not great at all things. The full phrase though, I feel is of more worth which is “a jack of all trades, a master of none, but often times better than master of none”- in which it is suggested that those who master one task to its fullest extent would be the optimums example. But those who take no opportunity to master anything are below that standard. 

The value, lies in versatility. A jack of all trades is inherently more valuable than a master of one. And that is because a jack of all trades is able to provide an example for the payoff of multiple skills. We’re fortunate to be working in a genre that encourages a “master of none” premise if you will. It is not an infrequent occurrence to see artists working within in Americana to be delving into multiple projects outside of music itself.  

Our guest today is a master of none. Elizabeth Cook was born in 1972, and is the 11th out of 12 children and released her first album in 2000. Since then she has made over 400 Opry debuts, hosts a radio show in addition to a fishing show, voices an ongoing character on the show Squidbillies and just always seems to be on the run to her next gig… whatever it may be.  

So join us today as our host Robert Earl Keen speaks with Elizabeth about her busy schedule, her songwriting, and maybe some interview tips. 

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

It’s happened to all of us. we’re chatting with another person, getting to know each other and then the question “What kind of music do you like” comes up.. At which point many of us are better off reading a thesaurus outloud trying to describe it as we do our best impression of that scene in High Fidelity where Dick is describing the enigmatic Mardie de Salle to Rob “She's kind of Sheryl Crow-ish crossed with a post-Partridge Family pre-L.A. Law Susan Dey kind of thing”... As a non-artist it’s one thing, but applying that pressure to musician’s to describe their work. It's a lot to ask. 

but that’s our job here at Americana Podcast and this episode’s guest more than rose to the challenge.

Kam Franklin, is a Houston native and frontwoman for the 7 piece band known as The Suffers. Forming in 2011, the suffers sport an impressive ensemble that lovingly refers to their work as gulf coast soul. a term that actually perfectly describes the sound which can be found within their two-record discography. The Suffers create an expansive, lush air with their music. an array of colorful horn pieces, worldly drum rhythms and Kam’s knockout voice. and talking with kam about her work is enlightening. She is unafraid to describe the root of her abilities, her all-inclusive influences, and most importantly- the pursuit of trying to improve at any given opportunity. 

So join us today as our host Robert Earl Keen discusses with Kam Franklin the importance of education, band communication and the music we have to look forward to from Kam as well as The Suffers.

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

Hailing from Americus Georgia, Brent Cobb got his start with his first record “No Place to Leave” in 2006, a roots meets red hot chilli peppers- esque album produced by his cousin Dave Cobb. After “no place to leave”, Brent returned to Georgia but moved to Nashville shortly after with the encouragement of singer Luke Bryan- where Cobb then joined carnival music publishing as a regular songwriter. Since then Cobb has written songs for artists such as kenny chesney, miranda lambert, luke bryan, and little big town. 

In addition to songwriting- Cobb continued to release his own records and received a 2018 grammy award nomination for his album “Shine on Rainy Day”. 

Cobb's latest album “Keep ‘Em on They Toes” was released september of 2020- and it’s the kind of record that you wish you could listen to for the first time again. in the songs written for his newborn child- Cobb espouses simple advice to not only stay ahead but stay content in one's life. While other tracks break down the difficulty of finding common ground in an ever growing divided social consciousness. With that said, Cobb's delivery remains straight-forward and earnest. The album is solid as any good advice one can receive in life and is backed by beautifully strung instrumentation. There's more on his horizon, so please join us as our host Robert Earl Keen speaks with Cobb about songwriting, the wise words of Shooter Jennings, and the future of Americana music.

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

Okay y'all… We need to talk about something. at first we only heard about it in whispers or read it in citations or saw the occasional New Yorker comic about it. But now’s it’s been going on for a bit and we can’t ignore the elephant in the room any longer..  Bluegrass music is considered cool now. 

I know. I'd like to say i’m surprised, but I’m really not. Bluegrass music has a rich and vibrant history, dating back to the early 20th century. It is a genre that encapsulates regional identity, creative freedom, and advanced music ability- while also nurturing a vibrant base of music lovers and players through it’s natural communal education. What it was lacking was a new take, new chapters, new songs being added to the bluegrass biblical canon. 

The key word in that sentence is “was”. 

Out of this heartland happening springs forth our guest today- the one and only Billy Strings. 

Billy Strings music is Bluegrass and beyond. His lyrics reflect a critical understanding of the power and skill of songwriting. His songs often take the time to comment on personal happenings’, his concerns regarding economic and ecological disruptions, and just general musings on life itself.  All amplified by the immaculate production of the records themselves. There are moments within Billy Strings albums that arguably border on soundscape due to the inclusion of complicated chromaticism's and lingering sonic intricacies. To try an describe how good he is… its ineffable. 

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]

John Craigie began his career like many artists of the early 2000’s- playing in coffee shops up and down the coast of California with the occasional intrastate appearances in other coffee shops. during this time, Craigie honed his craft as a songwriter but also took the time to develop a real stage experience. looking to artists he admired such as Todd snider and Arlo Guthrie- John Craigie adopted storytelling as a regular interlude in his set (a facet of performance which remains to this day). his performance has been captured in two live record “Capricorn in Retrograde, Just Kidding Live in Portland” and “Opening for Steinbeck”- two albums that we personally recommend to everyone.

These stories are a touching combination of funny and insightful and really open up the barrier between the stage and the audience. John Craigie is stunningly approachable in his demeanor- a personal attribute which extends to his musical identity as well. In 2009, he released his first record “Montana Tale” which exhibited his knack for first-person oriented writing with solid rhythmical acoustic backing. Although there are consistent hallmarks of who Craigie is as a musician across his discography- he is fearless in his creativity. His 9 studio albums over the years cover everything from stomp and holler, collaborative commune to his latest 60’s-esque groove experience “Asterisk the Universe”.

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial 

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

[email protected]