Liz sits down with bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis for a wide-ranging conversation about the music she’s loved and played for more than 50 years. What makes bluegrass “bluegrass”? Do drums belong in our msuic? Why is picking valued more than singing? And how has the experience of women in bluegrass changed? Laurie also talks about her new album Oh California, her songwriting, and what it feels like to finally make peace with being called a “Legend.” Enjoy!

Mike chats with Lake Carver and Lyla Cherry of the dynamic North Carolina-based band Carolina Detour. These talented and accomplished young musicians (they are both 16 year old!) reflect on a broad range of musical topics like performing, competing – and the challenges of fitting it all into a crowded school schedule. Hear the voices of the next generation of Bluegrass. Enjoy!

Our last episode of Season 6! To end on a high note, Mike sits with Bronwyn – one of our greatest fiddle players – who is about to release her first album of songs she wrote or co-wrote! She delves into her motivations for pursuing this musical path, thoughts on learning and playing music – and how a bumpy bus ride led to a hit song! Plus, Mike and Liz reflect on season 6 and look forward to season 7. Enjoy!

Festival Alert! The iconic Earl Scruggs Music Festival is coming up very soon – Friday September 4th through Sunday September 6th.  Held at the Tryon Equestrian Center, the festival features amazing headliners, workshops, vendors, jamming – and Bluegrass BKLYN as Podcast-in-Residence! Mike speaks with Mary Beth Martin – Executive Director of the Earl Scruggs Center – and gets the whole story about the festival, the Earl Scruggs Museum and homeplace, and much more. Enjoy!

Liz talks with award-winning singer Brooke Aldridge about the heart behind the uplifting music she and husband Darin create together. Brooke shares how they choose songs that inspire hope, balance life on and off the stage, and build a musical partnership that's as strong as their harmonies. Plus – Bluegrass BKLYN will be Podcast-in-Residence at the Earl Scruggs Music Festival. Enjoy!

Mike gets to meet the Biscuit Eaters, a traditional bluegrass family band from North Carolina. Meredith Wilkerson (the “Band Mom”) shares her thoughts, along with guitarist Maggie (age 12), fiddler Silas (age 10) and dancing fiddler Molly (age 7). It’s a surprising and fascinating discussion covering their journey from family jam circle to festival bandstand to recording studio. Enjoy!

Upcoming Events of Note:

Meet Darren Nicholson, son of Western North Carolina who brings generations of pickin’ and singin’ to his music. Join the wide-ranging conversation about the soul of bluegrass, virtuosi showcases vs singable songs, and enjoy a game of ‘musical tag’ Darren and Mike play. Also, we’re proud to introduce our new sponsor – Peghead Nation on-line music school. Enjoy!

Upcoming Events of Note:

Whether you're new to bluegrass or looking to improve your jamming skills, Harry Gambrill shares practical wisdom drawn from years of teaching and performing. Learn how to build confidence, communicate in a jam, and stop waiting for the "perfect" moment to join in. Plus, find out more about the Wernick Method Silver Bay jam camp.  Enjoy!

Upcoming Events of Note:

Liz talks with Podunk Bluegrass Music Festival organizer Shanna Connor about what makes this award-winning festival such a favorite among bluegrass fans. From world-class music and late-night picking to volunteers, community, and the bluegrass family, discover why so many people return to Podunk year after year. Enjoy!

Music in this Episode:

Liz talks with award-winning vocalist and guitarist Greg Blake about the lessons he's learned from decades of performing, teaching, and making music. From what creates a great singer to the importance of rhythm guitar, audience connection, and finding your own musical voice, Greg shares thoughtful insights for musicians at every level. Plus, Liz and Mike look back on their experience as Podcast-in-Residence at this year's Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival. Enjoy!

Upcoming Events of Note: