On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh Williams treats us to a heartfelt performance of Summer Wages, showcasing his signature smooth vocals and guitar mastery. We’re also joined by the incredible Ashley Lewis—an amazing singer, mandolinist, and Marketing Manager for Bluegrass Today. She shares stories from her musical journey, insights from the bluegrass world, and even a tune of her own that her and Josh recorded in 2014 together. Tune in for great music and conversation!

We’re celebrating one year of The Hometown Bluegrass Show in the best way possible—live on stage at The Kentucky Opry with an incredible performance by our very own Josh Williams! Hosted by Tim Batts and Josh Williams, this special episode captures the energy, excitement, and passion for bluegrass that has fueled our journey over the past year.

Recorded during a Jackson Purchase Friends of Bluegrass event, this milestone show features live music, stories from the road, and special moments that showcase the heart of bluegrass. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just tuning in, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Thank you to our listeners, supporters, and the amazing bluegrass community for making this year unforgettable. Here’s to many more!

Tune in now and celebrate with us!

The Hometown Bluegrass Show – Featuring Sammy Shelor of Lonesome River Band

In this special episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with one of the greatest banjo players in bluegrass history—Sammy Shelor of the legendary Lonesome River Band. With a career spanning decades, multiple IBMA awards, and an unmistakable style that has influenced generations of pickers, Sammy shares stories from the road, insights into his playing technique, and the legacy of LRB.

From his early influences to his time leading one of the most iconic bands in bluegrass, this episode is packed with music, memories, and plenty of laughs. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of bluegrass banjo with one of the best in the business!

🎙️ Tune in, turn it up, and keep it bluegrass!

On this episode Tim and Josh kick off a new podcast season with some bluegrass music chatter, news and Josh plays an old Tony Rice song. They then chat with Jesse Meador and Kayce O’Neal of Kentucky Just Us band. From their incredible vocal harmonies to their masterful musicianship, Kentucky Just Us is making a significant mark on the music industry. Through their powerful songwriting and captivating stage presence, KJU shares their heart and soul in every aspect of their music, continuing to inspire audiences everywhere they go. Their innovative sound, which blends Country, Bluegrass, and Folk Music, shines in their brand-new single, “Homeward Bound.” Written and produced by band member Jesse Meador. Which we play at the end of the show.

https://www.kentuckyjustus.com/

https://banjobenclark.com/

https://paigecapo.com/

https://lakehouseinn.com/

https://www.puckettsjewelry.com/

https://www.customautoonline.com/

As 2024 comes to a close, Tim Batts and Josh Williams take a heartfelt look back at an incredible year on The Hometown Bluegrass Show. Join us as we revisit standout moments, unforgettable interviews, and the best in bluegrass music from the past year.

From legendary guest appearances to rising stars making waves, we highlight the stories and songs that made this year special. Tim and Josh also share behind-the-scenes insights, listener favorites, and personal reflections from a year filled with music, community, and unforgettable memories.

Thank you for tuning in and supporting The Hometown Bluegrass Show—we can’t wait to bring you even more great bluegrass in the year ahead!

On this episode Tim and Josh discuss the fundraiser event at the Kentucky Opry to raise money for Hurricane Helene victims. Colton Baker and friends and Southern Legacy performed. With guests Ron Stewart and Jake Vanover.

Josh performs and discusses a Tony Rice song called Any Old Time and they have a fun conversation with former Doyle Lawson and Jimmy Fortune guitar player, Jake Vanover from Berea, KY.

This week Tim and Josh sit down and talk with Ernie Evans. Ernie owns Evans Media Source which is a bluegrass media and promotions company that owns and runs many of the popular bluegrass festivals and shows through the year! Ernie has done so much to promote bluegrass music in his 40 plus years in the business!

Josh also performs a heartfelt version of his great song “Let It Go” which was featured on his very popular Modern Day Man Album in 2016.

In this special episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts and Josh Williams take you behind the scenes of the Hurricane Helene Relief Fundraiser at the iconic Mountain Arts Center. Join us as we share heartfelt stories, memorable performances, and the incredible community spirit that made this event unforgettable.

We highlight how the power of bluegrass music brought people together to support those affected by the hurricane. From the moving opening acts to the grand finale, you'll feel like you were right there with us.

Thank you to all who donated, performed, and participated in making a difference through music. Tune in for a celebration of resilience, generosity, and the ties that bind us in the bluegrass community.

Josh’s son Weldon also joins us again on this episode and he and Josh share a father/son performance.

On this episode Tim and Josh talk about 2 fund raiser music events for the Hurricane Helene victims, Josh talks about playing at The Grand Ole Opry with Rhonda Vincent and he plays a song and dedicates it to an avid listener and Veteran of the USA Military!

We then have fun chat with Andrea Roberts! Andrea runs Andrea Roberts Agency and is a staple in the bluegrass music scene! Andrea Roberts Agency is the culmination of Andrea’s years of experience in varied facets of the industry, which provides her with a well-informed and understanding perspective that only someone with practical knowledge can possess. As a professional touring artist, Andrea performed with artists such as Bill Monroe, Jimmy Martin, Jim & Jesse McReynolds, Ralph Stanley, Larry Sparks, Mac Wiseman and Special Consensus. And many more!

On this episode Tim & Josh talk to 6 time IBMA Male Vocalist of The Year, Russell Moore. Josh plays an old song, Old Brown Suitcase and lots of other shenanigans.