The Hometown Bluegrass Show – Episode #84

Guest: Colton Baker (Authentic Unlimited)

In this episode, Josh and Tim sit down for a fun and wide-ranging conversation with Colton Baker, lead singer of Authentic Unlimited.

Colton shares stories from the road, insights into the band’s journey, and what it’s like helping shape the sound and direction of one of today’s most exciting bluegrass groups. Along the way, the guys talk about songwriting, group dynamics, and the importance of staying authentic—both on stage and off.

As always, there’s plenty of laughter, great music, and genuine bluegrass camaraderie that makes this episode feel like you’re just hanging out with friends.

This week, Josh Williams didn’t just bring great music — he brought family. Hearing Josh sing alongside his two sons was a powerful reminder of what bluegrass is all about: passing songs, faith, and tradition from one generation to the next.

There’s something truly moving about a father sharing the mic with his children, harmonies blending with love, respect, and a shared passion for the music. These are the moments that make this music timeless and keep our roots growing strong.

If you believe in family, tradition, and music that means something, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

Episode #82 brings a special pre-Christmas feel to The Hometown Bluegrass Show. Josh shares a heartfelt performance of the Gordon Lightfoot classic “Song for a Winter’s Night,” perfectly capturing the season. We’re also joined by young bluegrass rising star Molly Clair, who talks about her musical journey and what’s ahead. A warm episode of great music and conversation just in time for Christmas.

In Episode #80 of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim sits down with one of today’s most exciting voices and instrumentalists in modern bluegrass—Rick Faris. Known for his lightning-fast picking, unmistakable vocal style, and award-winning songwriting, Rick joins us for a lively and heartfelt conversation about music, family, faith, and life on the road.

Rick shares stories from his early days playing with his family band, his years touring with Special Consensus, and the creative journey behind his custom guitar building. We dig into his songwriting process, influences, and what continues to inspire him as he pushes the boundaries of traditional and contemporary bluegrass.

Thanksgiving Special Edition

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh gather around the microphones with a spirit of gratitude, great stories, and the high lonesome sound your family loves. This week’s show is packed with reflections on the blessings of the past year, plus Josh pays tribute to the legendary Tony Rice with a beautiful rendition of “Streets of London,” capturing the tone and soul that made Tony’s version unforgettable. As we wrap up this Thanksgiving special, we want to extend our appreciation to every listener who tunes in, shares the show, or supports bluegrass music in your hometown. From our family to yours—thank you. May your holiday be filled with good food, good company, and good music.

In Episode 78, Josh kicks off the show with a timeless Michael Martin Murphey classic, “Carolina in the Pines,” showcasing one of the most beloved cross-genre gems that found its way into the bluegrass world.

We’re also joined by a special guest and true ambassador of bluegrass music, Austin Scelzo from Connecticut. Austin is a fiddle player, educator, and organizer who has been instrumental in growing the Northeastern bluegrass community. We talk about his work with the Bluegrass Academy, his passion for teaching, and how he keeps traditional music thriving in a region not always associated with bluegrass.

Tim was out of town this week, so Josh took the controls—and he brought in a special co-host: his son, Wheldon! 👏

These two held down the studio with great music, fun stories, and plenty of laughs. It’s a father-son takeover you won’t want to miss!

Tune in now to this week’s episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show and enjoy some great bluegrass straight from our family to yours. 💙🎻

In this week’s episode, Josh spins a little Keith Whitley for all you classic bluegrass and country fans, setting the perfect tone for a conversation with Shawn Camp — the acclaimed country and bluegrass artist known for his soulful voice, powerful songwriting, and deep roots in traditional music.

Tim and Josh chat with Shawn about his career journey, his work with legends like Bill Monroe and the Osborne Brothers, and how he bridges the worlds of bluegrass and country with authenticity and heart. You’ll hear stories from the road, songwriting insights, and a few laughs along the way.

In this milestone 75th episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh celebrate traditional sounds and heartfelt storytelling. Josh kicks things off with a classic from Bill Anderson, setting the tone for a show filled with warmth, roots, and real bluegrass spirit.

Then, Tim and Josh welcome special guests Heather Berry Mabe and Tony Mabe—two incredible artists known for their beautiful harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and deep connection to traditional bluegrass. The husband-and-wife duo share stories about their musical journey, their time performing with Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice, and the creative spark behind their new project, Red Camel Collective.