Blues is the Truth

Blues is the Truth

By Ian McHughMusic
Download on the App Store

Blues is the Truth episodes

  • Blues is the Truth 743
    ️ New Episode of Blues is the Truth – Out Now!

    This week, Ian McHugh delivers another packed episode, blending blues legends with modern masters. As always, expect the best in blues alongside Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same!

    The show features raw blues from Robert Johnson, Hound Dog Taylor & The HouseRockers, and Freddie King, alongside soulful voices like Labelle, Jimmy Witherspoon, and BB King & Dionne Warwick. Guitar magic comes from Duke Robillard, Eric Clapton, Andy Fairweather Low, and Doyle Bramhall II, while modern blues energy is brought by Larkin Poe, The Dig Three, Victor Wainwright, and Mississippi MacDonald. There’s plenty of harmonica-driven fire too, with Bob Corritore & Friends, Earl Hooker & Junior Wells, and Giles Robson & Chris Corcoran, plus high-energy blues from 24 Pesos, BB & The Blues Shacks, Boo Boo Davis, and The Proof. And of course, there are standout tracks from Buddy Guy, Edgar Winter, Dave Thomas Blues Band, and more.

    Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review—spread the blues far and wide!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 742
    ️ New Episode of Blues is the Truth – A Mix of Old and New!

    This week, Ian McHugh brings you a perfect blend of classic blues legends and the finest modern artists, all packed into another must-hear episode. With regular favourites like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, it’s a journey through the best of the blues, past and present.

    You’ll hear the harmonica magic of James Cotton, the New Orleans grooves of Earl King, and the swing of T-Bone Walker, alongside deep blues from Mississippi Fred McDowell and the smooth sounds of Al Smith.

    Modern blues is well represented too, with powerhouse performances from The Cinelli Brothers, Shawn Pittman, and Mississippi Shakedown. Shemekia Copeland brings raw energy, while Keb’ Mo’ and Robert Cray deliver their signature soulful blues.

    There’s also electric blues and rock-infused sounds from Eric Clapton, Andy Fairweather Low, Savoy Brown, and Tab Benoit & Jimmy Thackery, plus killer tracks from The Cash Box Kings, Mississippi Heat, Cadillac Kings, and Steven Troch Band.

    Don’t miss vintage gems from Chuck Norris and His Band, Jerron Paxton, Big Joe Shelton, and Al Dowling, plus a track from Blues is Truth itself!

    Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review—let’s keep the blues alive!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 741
    ️ New Episode of Blues is the Truth – A Collection of Favourites!

    This week, Ian McHugh is diving into a personal selection of his all-time favourite blues tracks. Expect a journey through classic legends, powerhouse vocalists, and guitar heroes, with all the usual Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same features along the way.

    This episode is packed with blues royalty, including Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, and Buddy Guy, alongside the electrifying guitar work of Freddie King, BB King, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

    The modern masters bring their own fire, with soulful grooves from Robert Cray & Keb’ Mo’, the raw power of Susan Tedeschi, and the dynamic energy of Tedeschi Trucks Band. John Mayer and Linsey Alexander add their own twists to the blues tradition, while Taj Mahal and Big Mama Thornton bring their unmistakable signature sounds.

    We’re also turning up the volume with legendary rock-infused blues from Jimi Hendrix Experience, Eric Clapton, and Fleetwood Mac, plus the unmistakable swagger of The Rolling Stones. Funky rhythms from Booker T. & the MG’s and a killer track from Captain Morgan Express round out this packed playlist.

    Listen now and let the blues take over! Don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review—spread the blues far and wide!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 740
    ️ New Episode of Blues is the Truth Out Now!

    Join Ian McHugh for another journey through the rich tapestry of blues music, featuring our regular segments Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same. This episode is a powerhouse of blues legends, modern masters, and rising stars, delivering everything from raw Delta grit to soulful, electrified grooves.

    You’ll hear the timeless sounds of icons like Albert King, Muddy Waters, and Derek and the Dominos, alongside the soulful blend of Delaney and Bonnie. We’ve got Chicago blues vibes from The Cash Box Kings and harmonica brilliance from Jerry Portnoy and the Streamliners.

    Modern blues gets its spotlight with the gritty edge of Ian Siegal, the powerhouse vocals of Pat Fulgoni Blues Experience, and the funky grooves of The Altered Five Blues Band. There’s heartfelt authenticity from Dylan Triplett, swampy blues from Watermelon Slim and the Workers, and raw energy from Shawn Pittman.

    We’re also shining a light on talents like Robbert Duijf, Rees Shad, Steve Howell and the Mighty Men, Georgie Bonds and the True Dats, Ash Gray and the Burners, Connie Lush Band, Geoff Garbow, T-Belly, and Lurrie Bell, each bringing their unique voice to the blues tradition.

    Don’t forget to like, subscribe, share, and leave a review to help spread the blues far and wide. Hit play and let the blues do what it does best—move your soul.
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 739
    ️ Blues is the Truth – A New Episode Full of Legends and Rising Stars!

    Join Ian McHugh for another electrifying episode of Blues is the Truth, packed with the finest blues from across the decades. With regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, there’s always something fresh, familiar, and full of soul.

    We’re also celebrating some exciting news – Blues is the Truth has been longlisted for UK Blues Awards Radio Presenter of the Year! A huge thank you to everyone who listens, shares, and supports the show. Your love for the blues keeps this music alive!

    This week’s episode is stacked with incredible talent. We’ve got the unmistakable grooves of Johnny Guitar Watson and the raw energy of Mitch Ryder, alongside the legendary guitar work of Eric Clapton and Kai Strauss. The show brings soulful power from Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, deep blues from Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues, and masterful storytelling from Steve Howell and the Mighty Men.

    There’s also a modern edge with the John Mayer Trio, alongside transatlantic brilliance from Guy Verlinde & Tom Eylenbosch and the classic drive of The Backbone Blues Band. The high-energy blues-rock of Alex Lopez Express and Big Al and the Heavyweights will get your feet moving, while Joss Stone and Heavydrunk & Watermelon Slim bring deep, soul-drenched emotion.

    We keep the guitar fireworks going with JW Jones and the feel-good sounds of Elvin Bishop’s Big Fun Trio, while The Fabulous Thunderbirds remind us why they’re still at the top of their game. And, of course, it wouldn’t be Blues is the Truth without a nod to the past, featuring the legendary Muddy Waters, the unmistakable voice of Dave Kelly, and the modern mastery of The Cinelli Brothers, Rees Shad, and the incredible Tedeschi Trucks Band.

    With a lineup like this, you won’t want to miss a second!

    If you love the blues, help us spread the word—like, share, rate, and subscribe. Let’s keep the blues alive together!

    #BluesIsTheTruth #BluesRadio #UKBluesAwards #BluesMusic #ListenNow
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 738
    New Episode of Blues is the Truth!

    Get ready for another jam-packed episode of Blues is the Truth, where we bring you the best of blues, soul, funk, and more. This week’s show is stacked with incredible artists like Tim Penn and the Second Line, McKenna Moonah Blues Duo, Dave Ferra, Dom Flemmons, Guy Verlinde, and Tom Eylenbosch, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Untouchables, Lucas Haneman, Northsyde, Dave Specter, Melon Jelly, Georgie Bonds, Andres Roots, Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, Robert Hokum and the Guv’nors, Andreas Diehlmann Band, Curtis Salgado, Vinyl Paradise, Alfie Smith, Eric Clapton, Mississippi MacDonald, and Steve Bailey.

    We’ll have all your favorite regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, plus a whole bunch of deep cuts, classics, and fresh new music from the blues scene.

    Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review on your podcast platform of choice—your support helps keep the blues alive!

    Tune in now and let the music do the talking!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 737
    The latest episode of Blues is the Truth is here, and normal service resumes with two hours of phenomenal blues that will keep your soul singing and your feet tapping. Hosted by the ever-passionate and knowledgeable Ian McHugh, this week’s show is packed with incredible music, the usual fan-favorite features, and a lineup of artists that truly defines the spirit of the blues.

    This episode shines a spotlight on the brilliant Tomislav Goluban and the powerhouse sounds of Crooked Eye Tommy, both delivering unforgettable performances that will leave you hitting replay. Alongside them, you’ll hear classics and contemporary gems from legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Muddy Waters, and Buddy Guy, and the deep grooves of Little Walter, Peter Green, and Otis Spann.

    Etta James brings her unparalleled vocal power, while Mud Morganfield, Tim Aves and Wolfpack, and the soulful Colin James remind us why blues endures. The raw energy of Tail Dragger, Cesar Crespo and the Pinball’s Blues Party, and Wailin’ Walker will keep you on the edge of your seat, while Bob Margolin and Bob Coritore showcase their collaborative genius.

    With contributions from Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Larry Griffith, Jeff Pitchell, Kai Strauss, and even blues royalty BB King and Lowell Fulson, this week’s lineup spans decades of brilliance. And, of course, there’s a special place for Eric Clapton, whose timeless artistry remains an inspiration.

    Make sure you don’t miss this blues-packed episode! Listen now and join Ian McHugh on this musical journey. And if you love what you hear, don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and review on your podcast platform of choice. Spread the word and help keep the blues alive!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 736
    Welcome to the latest edition of Blues is the Truth, kicking off the year with a fantastic lineup of music and the return of all your favorite regular features! Hosted by the ever-passionate Ian McHugh, this episode brings you everything you’ve come to love about the show, from the deep dives of “Blues Driver” to the exciting challenges of “Title Track Tango” and the timeless discoveries of “The Song Remains the Same.”

    This week’s music selection is truly exceptional, featuring tracks from Kai Strauss, Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, Joanne Shaw Taylor, and Robert Cray, as well as collaborations like Tomislav Goluban and Crooked Eye Tommy, and Giles Robson with John Primer. You’ll also hear the legendary Koko Taylor, the soulful Jerron Paxton, and guitar greats like Eric Clapton and Dave Kelly. The lineup continues with GA-20, Pat Donahue, and gems from The British Bluescasting Corporation, John ‘Greyhound’ Maxwell, and Sheryl Youngblood.

    There’s even more to savor, with performances by Jimmie Vaughan, Nick Moss Band, The 2:19, Alice Di Micele, and The Cinelli Brothers. Plus, tracks from Little Georgie and the Shuffling Hungarians, Wailin’ Walker, Breezy Rodio, Al Lerman, and the unforgettable Willie Kent round out this spectacular playlist.

    Make sure to tune in, and don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and review the show—it helps spread the word and keeps the blues alive. Let’s start the year strong, together, with the music that moves us!
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 735 Best of 2024
    Join host Ian McHugh for a special edition of “Blues is the Truth,” as he curates a non-comprehensive best-of episode, showcasing standout tracks from the past 12 months. This two-hour journey features selections from artists such as Giles Robson, The Cinelli Brothers, Conolly Hayes, Tab Benoit, Terry Marshall and Friends, The Paul Michael Band, The Milk Men, Rick Estrin and the NightCats, Kid Andersen, Kai Strauss, Robert Hokum, Catfish, Shemekia Copeland, Paul Cook Blues Band with Katie Bradley, Tony Louie, Murali Coryell, Neil Sadler, Colin James, Elles Bailey, Johnny Burgin with Anson Funderburgh, and JJ Grey and Mofro. Additionally, Paul Michael picks two of his absolute favourites in his very own Blues Driver segment.

    Ian McHugh, frontman and guitarist of the band Blues is Truth, has been presenting “Blues is the Truth” for over a decade. He also serves as the compere of the Ealing Blues Festival main stage, bringing his extensive knowledge and passion for blues music to each episode. 

    Tune in to this episode for an eclectic mix that reflects the dynamic landscape of contemporary blues. Don’t forget to share the episode with fellow blues enthusiasts, subscribe to the podcast for weekly doses of blues excellence, and take a moment to rate and review. Your feedback helps keep the blues alive and thriving.

    #BluesIsTheTruth #BestOf2024 #IanMcHugh #BluesPodcast #SubscribeAndShare
    2 hr
  • Blues is the Truth 734 Christmas Special
    Blues is the Truth Christmas Special

    It’s time to deck the halls with the best blues of the season! Join host Ian McHugh for a two-hour festive celebration filled with music to warm your soul.

    This week’s show features holiday magic and stunning performances from blues legends like BB King, Charles Brown, Buddy Guy, James Brown, Albert King, and Ray Charles. Modern blues stars like Joe Bonamassa, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Mike Zito, and Victor Wainwright bring their incredible talent to the mix.

    You’ll also hear unforgettable tracks from Duke Robillard, Benny Turner, Earl King, Roy Milton, Big Harp George, Anson Funderburgh, Fran McGivillray Band, Cash Box Kings, Delta Moon, and Random Earth Project. Adding to the festive cheer are classics by Floyd Dixon, Mabel Scott, Bessie Smith, Lawrence Lebo, Jimmy Durante, and the magical duo of Will Johns and Tramper Price.

    Alongside these festive blues tunes, enjoy your favorite features like The Song Remains the Same and Blues Driver.

    Celebrate the holidays in true blues style—don’t forget to share, subscribe, review, and rate the show to spread the Christmas cheer. Merry Christmas from all of us at Blues is the Truth!
    2 hr

About Blues is the Truth

From the publisher's feed

Blues is the Truth is a weekly 2 hour radio show, featuring some of the very best new Blues Music alongside some classic tracks that define the genre. Presented for a decade by Ian McHugh, frontman and guitarist with the band Blues is Truth and compere of the Ealing Blues Festival main stage,