Podcasts about Mountain Stage

On today's podcast, musician and Artistic Director of the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), Andrew Walesch shares how MIM offers a hands-on, immersive experience that celebrates music's role in shaping history and human connection. BACK STORY Like a good many before him, singer and pianist Andrew Walesch somehow manages to encapsulate the sophistication of a cosmopolite and the self-effacing charm of a country boy. Whether composing and arranging or appearing in settings ranging from solo artist to big band, this Minnesota native, who crisscrosses the country playing dates big and small, is as respectful of his predecessors as he is ready to take a leap into the unknown and chart a new course. In his monthly, sold-out shows with his 10-piece band, Walesch is a traditionalist and an iconoclast rolled into one. His audiences include jazz enthusiasts of a certain age, as well as a younger crowd compelled by his down-home insouciance, and the knowing irreverence of a tried-and-true American nightclub entertainer. “Although they are my idols, I don't attempt to imitate the great pop and jazz artists of the 50's and 60's,” says the singer and pianist, “but I go for broke when we do our shows -- vocally and musically — which is what they all did best and why they were in a class of their own." His vocal and piano chops, along with his keen sensibility to find and interpret a great lyric, have led to some great opportunities for Walesch, including an appearance on the nationally syndicated NPR broadcast Mountain Stage and more recently, an invitation to perform at the 33rd Annual Cabaret Convention at the Rose Theater at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. Website: mim.org andrewwalesch.com   Instagram: mimphx Andrewwalesch    SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully. TAGS:  

This episode was recorded on May 4th, 2025 at Canady Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. The lineup includes Eric Bibb, Moira Smiley & The Rhizome Quartet, Twisted Pine, The McCrary Sisters, and Yasmin Williams. https://bit.ly/3Fsk1Nq

Knowing your audience is everything for a storyteller, and sometimes that information comes in real time. “Within three minutes I am going to know if this is going to be terrible for all of us or great,” says storyteller Bil Lepp. In this bonus episode, we talk about how to respond on stage to an audience's laughter, what to do if you find yourself with an audience of middle schoolers, how to handle a show that doesn't go so well, and how he got started in storytelling.Bil Lepp is an award-winning storyteller, author, and recording artist. He's the host of the History Channel's Man Vs History series, the occasional host of NPR's internationally syndicated Mountain Stage. Though a five time champion of the WV Liars's Contest, Lepp's stories often contain morsels of truth that present universal themes in clever and witty ways. Bil's books and audio collections have won the PEN Steven Kroll Award for Children's Book Writing, Parents' Choice Gold Awards and awards from the National Parenting Publications Association. He's also the recipient of the Vandalia Award, West Virginia's highest folk honor. The Charleston Gazette calls him a “cross between Dr. Seuss and film noir.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emergingform.substack.com/subscribe

Humor for the joy of it is reason enough, but in this episode we speak with storyteller Bil Lepp about how humor might also be a way to earn trust with an audience so that we might bring in difficult conversations. He offers techniques for how to craft toward a punchline and how to use a “Lego” approach to crafting multiple stories. We also touch on how storytelling builds community.Bil Lepp is an award-winning storyteller, author, and recording artist. He's the host of the History Channel's Man Vs History series, the occasional host of NPR's internationally syndicated Mountain Stage. Though a five time champion of the WV Liars's Contest, Lepp's stories often contain morsels of truth that present universal themes in clever and witty ways. Bil's books and audio collections have won the PEN Steven Kroll Award for Children's Book Writing, Parents' Choice Gold Awards and awards from the National Parenting Publications Association. He's also the recipient of the Vandalia Award, West Virginia's highest folk honor. The Charleston Gazette calls him a “cross between Dr. Seuss and film noir.” This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emergingform.substack.com/subscribe

Kathy Mattea joins Dave to preview upcoming Mountain Stage shows, including the highly anticipated August 24 performance by Robert Randolph at the Robinson Grand in Clarksburg. Kathy shares behind-the-scenes stories about featured artists like Susan Werner, Them Cooley Boys, The Arcadian Wild, Maya DeVitry, and rising star Medium Build. They also chat about the evolution of the Nashville music scene, artist collaborations, and how Mountain Stage consistently introduces new talent to fresh audiences. Don't miss insights on how to attend and stream this week's live show.

This episode was recorded on April 6th, 2025 at Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas, VA. The lineup includes Al Stewart, Livingston Taylor, Sweet Honey In The Rock, The Nighthawks, and Cristina Vane.  https://bit.ly/4lWtFIy 

Not all drivers were honorable. Some had partners rob their own stage, others died defending their passengers. They were cramped, bored, lacked sleep, some even went crazy. Plenty of good food at times to poor quality if any. Buffalo hunters, scouts and adventurers could provide exciting stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this West Virginia Morning, a reporter discusses dangerous conditions at a supermax prison in rural Virginia, and our Song of the Week from Mountain Stage. The post Poor Conditions At A Virginia Supermax Prison And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

This episode was recorded on March 21st, 2025 at Kodak Hall in Rochester, NY. The lineup includes Loudon Wainwright III, Janiva Magness, John Ellison & Joe Beard, Dan Navarro, and Ali McGuirk.   https://bit.ly/4jxGpUB

Passengers first sight of the Rocky Mountains was awe inspiring and scary. Drivers were king of the road, respected and admired. Through blinding snow storms, fog, flooded rivers and narrow mountain roads and robbers. Drivers had lots of stories if you were lucky enough to ride next to them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode was recorded on March 9, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes The MC Taylor Goldsmith Show (featuring Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes and MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger), Kat Edmonson, Ken Pomeroy, Jonny Fritz, and Scott Mulvahill.   https://bit.ly/4iftS6O

This episode was recorded on February 16th, 2025 at the Canady Creative Arts Centerat West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. The lineup includes Larkin Poe, Victoria Canal, Raye Zaragoza, Ron Pope, and Christian Lopez.  https://bit.ly/3RWmKBe

On this edition of MetroNews Hotline, Dave Weekly welcomes Mountain Stage co-founder and host Larry Groce for a freewheeling conversation that covers everything from the upcoming sold-out show with Jeff Tweedy to the discovery of genre-bending bands like Twisted Pine and the soulful gospel sounds of the McCrary Sisters. Larry shares behind-the-scenes insight into programming, reveals a personal connection to an upcoming Morgantown performance, and weighs in on the 55th anniversary of the Beatles' breakup. From productivity music to rare Springsteen tracks and Prince's vault, it's a blend of music history, insider access, and great storytelling. Don't miss it!

This episode was recorded on February 2nd, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes The Headhunters, Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters, David Berkeley, Buffalo Rose, and Crys Matthews.  https://bit.ly/42AWjHv

Grammy-winning artist and Mountain Stage host Kathy Mattea joins Dave Weekley on Hotline to share a heartwarming and hilarious backstage tale from her first road gig with Bobby Goldsboro — complete with World Series scores, Johnny Bench's restaurant, and a polyester Reds jersey. They also preview upcoming Mountain Stage performances featuring Livingston Taylor, Al Stewart, Sweet Honey in the Rock, and more. From Riverfront Stadium to the Kodak Theatre, this segment is a music lover's gem.

This episode was recorded on January 26th, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Oliver Wood, Stephen Wilson Jr., Dar Williams, TopHouse, and Cloud Cult. https://bit.ly/4hTzT8L

This episode was recorded on December 8, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes SKip Moore, Joy Clark, Brad Tursi, Andrew Marlin Stringband, and Matt Mullins & The Bringdowns with guest host David Mayfield. bit.ly/4iwypCo

This episode was recorded on December 1st, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Stephen Kellogg, Jill Sobule, Mindy Smith, Caleb Caudle & The Sweet Critters, and The David Mayfield Parade, with guest host Conor Knighton. http://bit.ly/3FLIixD

In the second hour of "Connections with Evan Dawson" on 3/13/24, we discuss the upcoming Rochester appearance of "Mountain Stage" and the value of songwriting.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. Advantage Valley is hosting workshops for those interested in starting their own childcare businesses…Bridging Innovation Week is coming to Shepherdstown in April--register now for a great networking and learning opportunity…and check out the talented lineup coming to Mountain Stage on March 9…on today's daily304. #1 – From ADVANTAGE VALLEY – Are you interested in starting a childcare business or expanding your current facility? Advantage Valley's FASTER WV childcare business workshops will provide you with the tools and resources to get started! This free workshop begins with a brief presentation featuring Advantage Valley, the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, Wonderschool, the local health department, childcare resource and referral agency, fire marshal, and more. Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and connect directly with experts for guidance and resources. Workshops are scheduled in the coming months in Jackson, Putnam and Kanawha counties. Register today! Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/advantage-valley-55321568063?utm_source=Advantage+Valley&utm_campaign=54e96ff54f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_02_18_05_58&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-54e96ff54f-73365994&ct=t(EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2_19_2025_15_11)&mc_cid=54e96ff54f&mc_eid=60d91b5b34   #2 – From WV ESHIP ECOSYSTEM – Bridging Innovation Week is the state's premier entrepreneurship event. The annual week advances entrepreneurship-led economic development by providing connection and education to business owners, current and prospective entrepreneurs, and entrepreneur-serving organizations throughout West Virginia. This year's Bridging Innovation Week takes place April 28 through May 2 in Shepherdstown. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, this is the place to explore entrepreneurship opportunities in the Mountain State. Register today and secure your lodging. Rooms with special rates have been set aside at the historic Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown.  Learn more: https://wveshipecosystem.org/#bridging-innovation   #3 – From MOUNTAIN STAGE – Be a part of the live audience as Mountain Stage records a fresh episode for NPR Music with Kathy Mattea! Guest artists for the March 9 show at the West Virginia State Capitol's Culture Center include the MC Taylor Goldsmith Show (Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes and MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger), Jonny Fritz, Kat Edmonson, Scott Mulvahill, Ken Pomeroy. Reserve your tickets today before they sell out! Learn more: https://mountainstage.org/event/the-mc-taylor-goldsmith-show-ken-pomeroy-and-more-on-mountain-stage/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Mountain Stage host Kathy Mattea joins the show to share behind-the-scenes highlights from recent performances, including Grammy-winning Larkin Poe, and previews upcoming acts like MC Taylor, Taylor Goldsmith, and Jeff Tweedy. She also reflects on her West Virginia roots, life on the road, and how a personal revelation helped her fall in love with performing Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses all over again. A must-listen for music lovers and storytelling fans alike!

Singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist who last year released four singles, was featured on six others, and is recording “a bunch of new stuff” this month. In 2023 he finished as a semi-finalist on season 18 of “America's Got Talent” AND, that same year, beat out thousands of competitors to win TikTok's Greatest Talent. Based in Detroit, he has performed at notable venues and events ranging from NPR's Mountain Stage to being an Americanafest Spotlight Artist to the famed Bluebird Café in Nashville AND Whiskey Jam, among others. His top five songs on Spotify alone have been streamed close to 5.9 million times, he has one million followers on TikTok, and his official YouTube channel has a combined total of 4.5 million video views.

This episode was recorded on November 10th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Blitzen Trapper, Low Cut Connie, Town Mountain, and Humbird. https://bit.ly/4gv55LG

This episode was recorded on December 1st, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Brother Elsey, Jenny Owen Youngs, Matt Pond PA, Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms, and Jeremy Short. http://bit.ly/3Pl761n

This special episode of Mountain Stage features four main segments containing songs that represent the four seasons of the year. Artists include Doc Watson, Bruce Hornsby, Sara Watkins, Susan Werner and many more. “There is a season… turn, turn, turn.” https://bit.ly/3ybhfbz

This episode was recorded on October 27th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore with the Guilty Ones, Will Hoge, Alex Cuba, MALINDA, and Sarah Siskind. https://bit.ly/3ZcDA3o

This episode was recorded on October 20th, 2024 at Joan C. Edwards PAC in Huntington, WV. The lineup includes JD Simo & Luther Dickinson, Paul Kelly, Kyle Tuttle Band, John Craigie, and Wayne Graham. http://bit.ly/3AIaZcS

Interview with Jeff Lang 2024 Australian guitarist-songwriter-vocalist-producer, Jeff Lang has built a reputation for making startling music that is accomplished, intricate, gutsy, melodic and loaded with soul. Often taking unexpected turns, he has consistently inspired his audiences by creating a stylistically diverse catalog of over 25 albums. Jeff has mischievously called his music ‘Disturbed Folk.' One writer referred to him as a “quiet achiever.” But the overall impression one has from observing Jeff's lengthy career is that of a driven man who keeps his head down, playing and recording music as if his very life depends on it. Outside of his homeland, Jeff has toured the UK, Europe, Japan, India, China, South Africa, New Zealand and Canada as well as concentrated work in the U.S., where he has played upwards of 300 shows, living there for 6 months at a time. He has appeared on prestigious American radio programs A Prairie Home Companion, Mountain Stage and Acoustic Café. Jeff has shared stages with Bob Dylan, Dr. John, Richard Thompson, Bonnie Raitt, Ani Di Franco, Chris Whitley, Albert Collins, Loudon Wainwright III, Greg Brown, John Butler, AR Rahman and Bob Geldolf, among many others. Jeff has delivered show-stopping performances at festivals all across the globe: The Dublin Blues Festival, Philadelphia Folk Festival, Quebec City Music Festival, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival, Fuji Rock, Glastonbury, Echo Park China, Ottawa BluesFest as well as on his home turf at Port Fairy, Woodford, Bluesfest Byron Bay and Womadelaide. Jeff Lang's unique musical vision easily finds a home in myriad settings, from large festival stages to the intimate, long-running Ann Arbor, Michigan club The Ark to the Sydney Opera House. Most importantly, Jeff Lang has achieved what is a rarity in the cluttered world of contemporary sounds: his own voice. Jeff's info https://jefflang.com.au  

This episode was recorded on October 6th, 2024 at Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg, WV. The lineup includes Kyshona, American Patchwork Quartet, The Brother Brothers, and Stephanie Lambring. https://bit.ly/4fjALTN

This episode was recorded on September 21st, 2024 at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, TN. The lineup includes Todd Snider, Amy Helm, Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, and Randall Bramblett. https://bit.ly/48tV4vl

On this West Virginia Morning, presidential elections tend to garner the most attention, and that added excitement provides a unique opportunity to engage students in the classroom with real-world events. And from this week’s premiere broadcast of Mountain Stage, our Song of the Week comes from Kyshona, a songwriter and powerful vocalist who lends her... View Article The post Using Elections As A Teaching Tool And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

This episode was recorded on September 20th, 2024 at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, TN. The lineup includesMadi Diaz, Judith Owen, The Dead Tongues, Swamp Dogg, and Tim Heidecker. https://bit.ly/3YvWUs7

This episode was recorded on August 25th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Joe Pug, Jobi Riccio, Carrie Newcomer, Curtis McMurtry, and The Local Honeys. https://bit.ly/4dJSWAq

This episode was recorded on August 18th, 2024 at the Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center. The lineup includes Paul Thorn, Raul Midón, Wood Box Heroes, Eden Brent, and Jett Holden. https://bit.ly/4dJSWAq

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, Oct. 7, 2024  Explore charming West Virginia towns in the fall…the West Virginia Penitentiary kicks off its annual Dungeon of Horrors haunted attraction…and check out some of the great concerts, festivals and sporting events coming to Charleston this fall…on today's daily304. #1 – From WORLD ATLAS – As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia transforms into a stunning mix of fiery reds, glowing golds, and vibrant oranges. From late September through October, the state fully embraces its nickname, “Almost Heaven,” with its stunning natural beauty on display.  From the historic hilltop town of Harpers Ferry to scenic Fayetteville, these towns offer unforgettable fall experiences. Whether hiking beneath a canopy of colorful leaves in Davis, exploring scenic drives in Lewisburg, or joining a lively harvest festival in Marlinton, each town brings the season to life in its own unique way. Check out wvtourism.com to begin planning your fall adventure in Almost Heaven.  Read more: https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/2024-s-towns-in-west-virginia-that-come-alive-in-the-fall.html   #2 – From SOURCE – Halloween is right around the corner and the Dungeon of Horrors is open at the West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville. The spooky attraction runs until November 2nd. The tour is for those 13 and older and will last about 45 minutes, where you'll experience the fright of being locked in a cell, the fear of being lost in a maze, and the terror of a nightmarish walk through our Dungeon of Horrors. It is a no-touch haunt. The penitentiary also offers a North Walk. It's a guided walk through the northern section of the facility and is most known to have paranormal activity. For tickets or more information, visit the West Virginia Penitentiary online. Read more: https://www.wtrf.com/west-virginia/dungeon-of-horrors-set-to-open-up-at-the-west-virginia-penitentiary/   #3 – From LOOTPRESS – Autumn is a great time to visit Charleston. The Capital City is rocking with great concerts and live performances, fall festivals, and a new USA Karate competition. Events include the annual West Virginia Book Festival and FestivFALL Charleston. The Charleston Ballet presents “Dracula: The Seduction.” Mountain Stage features a hot lineup, and concerts at the Charleston Coliseum include Dwight Yoakum and Jelly Roll. Read about these events and many more in Charleston this fall and visit charlestonwv.com to get the whole schedule. Read more: https://www.lootpress.com/upcoming-fall-events-in-charleston/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

On this West Virginia Morning, a conversation with artist Rosalie Haizlett about her new book of Appalachian wildlife illustrations, and our Song of the Week from Mountain Stage. The post Illustrating Appalachia’s Wildlife And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

This episode was recorded on June 23rd, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Maggie Rose, The Brothers Comatose, Kelsey Waldon, Myron Elkins, and Fantastic Cat. https://bit.ly/3zGG3Js

This episode was recorded on June 16th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes John R. Miller, Cris Jacobs, Lindsay Lou, Jeffrey Martin, and Margo Cilker. https://bit.ly/3THMOkX

On this West Virginia Morning, “No Options: Hip-Hop in Appalachia” is a compilation album from Appalshop showcasing Appalachia's long running hip hop scene. For Inside Appalachia, Mason Adams spoke with executive producer JK Turner and rapper Eric Jordan about the recording. Plus, this week’s broadcast of Mountain Stage brought together an array of artists at... View Article The post Appalachian Hip Hop And Our Song Of The Week, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, July 23, 2024. It's hot out there! The WVDNR offers some advice for outdoor enthusiasts to stay cool and hydrated…Check out the great lineup of shows from Mountain Stage and get your tickets today…and find a rewarding career in public safety -- check out who's hiring…on today's daily304. #1 – From WSAZ-TV – With temperatures hitting 90 degrees for 23 of the past 30 days, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources says outdoor enthusiasts need to take precautions and plan ahead. Beating the heat has been critically important this summer across the country. Just this past week a camper at Kanawha State Forest was treated for heat stroke. Park Superintendent Clark Sanford offered advice for those taking part in outside activity: “You want to pack at least one bottle of water for every two miles that you plan to be out hiking, and then to eat and to have proper salt intake as well,” he said. “Your body needs that salt to be able to hold onto the water to remain hydrated.” Sanford added that if you get in trouble and you don't have cell service, you should still use your phone to call 911. Many cell phones, in the case of an emergency, can connect with satellites to get help. Officials say it's critical to listen to your body. If something doesn't feel right, slow down, take a rest and find a way to cool down. Read more: https://www.wsaz.com/2024/07/15/wva-dnr-urges-precaution-with-hiking-heat/   #2 – From MOUNTAIN STAGE – Get your tickets now for some great Mountain Stage shows coming up over the next few months. For nearly 40 years, Mountain Stage has been the home of live music on public radio. Produced by West Virginia Public Broadcasting, hosted by Kathy Mattea, and distributed by NPR Music, each two-hour episode of Mountain Stage is recorded before a live audience. Upcoming shows include Joe Pug, American Patchwork Quartet, Dave Alvin, Blitzen Trapper and more. Shows take place at the Culture Center Theater at the State Capitol Complex unless otherwise noted.  Read more: https://mountainstage.org/upcoming-live-shows/   #3 – From DCR.WV – Make a difference in your community! Good pay with benefits, paid leave, opportunities for advancement -- that's what you'll find with a career in public safety. The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation is hiring! Visit dcr.wv.gov to find a list of hiring events coming up soon. Learn more: https://dcr.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

A slim time gap between the GC frontrunners led to Richard Carapaz securing the yellow jersey. The upcoming high mountain stage promises an exciting Pogacar/Vingegaard showdown. Today we witnessed a historic moment with Biniam Girmay stunning some of the globe's top sprinters.

This episode was recorded on May 19th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Southern Avenue, Driftwood, Elvie Shane, Melissa Ferrick, and Jeff Plankenhorn. https://bit.ly/3xyjyVZ

This episode was recorded on March 24th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Suzy Bogguss, Stephane Wrembel, Mama's Broke, Denitia, and Goldpine. https://bit.ly/4c3Wei5

I speak with artist and multi-instrumentalist Robert Ellis, one of the best singer-songwriters of his generation. I'll tell you why: first, his songs do what great pop songs do - grab your attention with a hook as sticky as hot honey (check out “Bottle of Wine” for an example), but you get a sense there's always something held in reserve, something that won't be revealed until you come back for a second or third or fourth listen.That might have to do with Robert's respect for the mutable laws of music theory (we talk about the relationship of the V to I cadence as the backbone for all music since Bach), or his sense of play evident in a catalogue that already spans 6 albums across genres as diverse as bluegrass-inspired ripper (“Sing Along”) to 70s' Rock (“Nobody Smokes Anymore”), or the soft spun album “Yesterday's News” reminiscent of Willie Nelson's “Rainbow Connection”.Or it could have to do with the fact that while guitar is his primary instrument (he is a *very* good guitar player) his chops on piano are formidable enough that not only did he release an album on ivories (2019's Texas Piano Man), but he toured it heavily - in a white tux and top hat, often solo at the keys.The Morse Code is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Robert has played Tiny Desk, Mountain Stage, and more recently, Carnegie Hall and collaborated with countless musicians from Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes to Jamestown Revival to Tift Merritt.A few weeks ago he took time off his tour with Parker Millsap to talk with me about his free-spirited approach to songwriting, playing and creativity in general.In this wide-ranging conversation we talk about the narrative parallels between music and  literature, and how even chord progressions have a narrative arc. We talk about the importance of — when evaluating a prospective work of art — shifting the question from “Is it perfect”? to “Is it me?” We even venture into territory of a purely philosophical bent, discussing Free Will and its role in a empathic worldview. Robert is consistent with his meditative practice, and as a father of three, his kids often join in for the morning meditation. We hit on the importance in being absolutely present while both performing and producing, and how that ethos applies to acting. Robert recently acted in a short film, directed by his wife, filmmaker Erica Silverman. He talked a little about that experience which I found revealing and charming and hilarious.Finally, the Texas Troubadour sat down to play his original “On the Run” live in studio on solo guitar. Watch and listen below.There's a lot more in this conversation, one of my favorite ever on this podcast. Get full access to The Morse Code at korby.substack.com/subscribe

This episode was recorded on April 28th, 2024 at WVU's Canaday Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. The lineup includes Ruthie Foster, Charlie Mars, Fellow Pynins, The Wandering Hearts, Rebecca Porter, and guest host David Mayfield. https://bit.ly/4aMlc3Z

This episode was recorded on April 21st, 2024 at Ohio Univeristy's Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium in Athens, Ohio. The lineup includes Bettye LaVette, Keller Williams, Kim Richey, The Langan Band, Megan Jean's Secret Family. https://bit.ly/4aGU9H9

This episode was recorded on March 24th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Duke Robillard Band, Cedric Burnside, Sam Weber, Las Cafeteras, and The Black Feathers. https://bit.ly/3UoAENn

This special episode of Mountain Stage features four main segments containing songs that represent the four seasons of the year. Artists include Doc Watson, Bruce Hornsby, Sara Watkins, Susan Werner, and many more. "There is a season... turn, turn, turn." https://bit.ly/3ybhfbz

This episode was recorded on March 17th, 2024 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Nothin' Fancy, Missy Raines & Allegheny, Rory Block, Ed Snodderly, and Meredith Moon.  https://bit.ly/3xMupLZ

This episode was recorded on March 10th, 2024 at WVU's Canaday Creative Arts Center. The lineup includes Tim O'Brien Band, Karan Casey, Dirk & Amelia Powell, and Tin Men. https://bit.ly/3W4bOF7