This week we conclude our two-part feature in honor of Black History Month. We’ll hear more recent recordings from Jon Batiste, Rhiannon Giddens and Mavis Staples. We’ll also hear some classics from Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Booker T. & the … Continue reading →
On the evening of February 7, hammered dulcimer master Bill Spence passed away, surrounded by his loving family. He was 78 years old, and I would be doing him a major discredit if I limit the description of his accomplishments … Continue reading →
This week we begin a two-part feature in honor of Black History Month. We’ll hear classic music from Kim and Reggie Harris, John Jackson, Big Bill Broonzy, The Tennessee Chocolate Drops, Washington Phillips and Lead Belly along with many more. … Continue reading →
Valentine’s Day in upon us once more. Flowers and chocolates are literally flying off the shelves and there are near riots at card shops. This may be a bit of an overstatement but Valentine’s Day remains a very favorite holiday … Continue reading →
The past month in much of the country has been a study in contrast as far as the weather is concerned. We have been unseasonably warm alternating with bone-chilling cold temperatures with wind chills way below zero … the perfect … Continue reading →
Introduction: “Old Bill Rolling Pin” Our recent post on “Mother in the Graveyard” dealt in part with encoded lyrics in the music of enslaved African-Americans. That ‘code’ is what today’s post and featured song, “Old Bill Rolling Pin,” is all … Continue reading →
