Hometown Bluegrass Show

On this week's episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts and Josh Williams welcome one of bluegrass music's most recognizable voices, Darren Nicholson. Darren joins us to talk about his career in bluegrass, his time with Balsam Range, his current projects, songwriting, touring, and what continues to inspire him as an artist. You'll also hear stories from the road and get Darren's perspective on the state of bluegrass music today.

We also take a few minutes to visit with one of our valued podcast sponsors, The Lakehouse Inn. We sit down with the owner to learn more about this beautiful destination, what makes it special for visitors, and why it has become a favorite place for travelers looking to experience the Kentucky Lake area.

As always, Josh picks a tune, we share a few laughs, and bring you another fun conversation from the world of bluegrass music.

In This Episode:

Darren Nicholson discusses his bluegrass journey and current music projects

Stories from life on the road and behind the scenes in bluegrass music

A spotlight interview with the owner of The Lakehouse Inn

Thanks for listening to The Hometown Bluegrass Show! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your bluegrass-loving friends.

For more information, merchandise, and past episodes, visit www.timbatts.com.

Episode 106 – Bluegrass on the Bluff Recap & Nathan Lynn of The Wheelhouse Rousters

On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim flies solo behind the microphone and looks back on the incredible success of the very first Bluegrass on the Bluff Festival held at beautiful Columbus-Belmont State Park in Columbus, Kentucky.

Tim shares stories from the day, highlights some of the outstanding performances, and reflects on the overwhelming support from music fans, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and everyone who helped make this inaugural event a success. From the scenic Mississippi River overlook to a full day of bluegrass music, the festival exceeded expectations and plans are already underway for an even bigger event in 2027.

Also on the show, Tim sits down with Nathan Lynn of The Wheelhouse Rousters, one of the featured bands at Bluegrass on the Bluff. Nathan talks about the band's performance, their unique style of bluegrass and Americana music, and what it was like being part of the first-ever festival. The conversation also dives into the band's history, influences, and what's ahead for The Wheelhouse Rousters.

It's a laid-back episode filled with festival memories, bluegrass conversation, and a look toward the future of one of Western Kentucky's newest music traditions.

Thanks for listening and for supporting bluegrass music!

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This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh and Tim welcome a very special guest, Dwight Whitley, brother of the legendary Keith Whitley.

Dwight shares personal stories and memories of what it was like growing up alongside one of country music's most beloved voices. From their early days in Eastern Kentucky to Keith's rise through the bluegrass world and eventually to country music stardom, Dwight offers a unique firsthand perspective that fans won't hear anywhere else.

The conversation also dives into Keith's deep love for bluegrass music, the instruments he treasured, and the story behind some of his prized guitars. Dwight reflects on Keith's musical influences, family life, and the legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians today.

As always, Josh picks a tune and joins Tim for another entertaining conversation celebrating the people and stories that make bluegrass and country music so special.

Whether you're a lifelong Keith Whitley fan or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from music history, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Listen now and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh sit down with the newest member of legendary bluegrass group Balsam Range, Stephen Hudson.

Stephen talks about joining one of bluegrass music’s most respected bands, stepping into the fiddle and vocal role, and what it’s been like becoming part of the Balsam Range family. The guys discuss Stephen’s musical roots, his love for traditional bluegrass music, and the excitement surrounding this new chapter in his career.

Josh and Tim also dive into the future of Balsam Range, life on the road, favorite songs, and the importance of keeping traditional bluegrass alive for the next generation.

If you’re a fan of hard-driving fiddle, great harmony singing, and real bluegrass conversation, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh hit the road with special guest Ami Ricci, creator of BluegrassRoadtrip.com. Ami shares the story behind her website, how it helps bluegrass fans discover festivals, venues, and events across the country, and why the bluegrass community continues to thrive through travel and live music.

Plus, Josh spins a great tune from Josh Turner that was written by our good buddy Shawn Camp. You’ll hear stories, laughs, and plenty of traditional bluegrass along the way.

In Episode #102, Tim sits down with Lindsay Bowles, Director of GRRO (The Great River Road Organization), for a conversation about history, tourism, community partnerships, and one of the region’s most exciting upcoming music events.

Tim and Lindsay talk about the mission of GRRO and the important work being done to preserve, promote, and celebrate the communities and landmarks along the Great River Road. They also discuss how music, heritage, and local culture come together to create unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike.

The spotlight of this episode is the upcoming Bluegrass on the Bluff festival happening June 6 at the beautiful and historic Columbus-Belmont State Park. Set high on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, this special event will feature great bluegrass music, scenic views, local history, and family-friendly fun.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

The story and mission behind GRRO

Why preserving regional history matters

What makes Columbus-Belmont State Park such a special venue

What attendees can expect at Bluegrass on the Bluff

How music helps connect communities across the region

Make plans now to join us on June 6 for an unforgettable evening of bluegrass music and heritage at Bluegrass on the Bluff.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and follow The Hometown Bluegrass Show for more conversations celebrating bluegrass music, community, and the people keeping tradition alive.

Episode #101 – The Hometown Bluegrass Show

Featuring Kenny Smith with host Tim Batts and Josh Williams

In Episode #101, Josh sits down with Kenny Smith for a conversation centered around the heart of bluegrass music—great songs, great guitars, and the stories behind both.

Kenny shares memories of his early musical influences and the players who shaped his approach to guitar. From learning traditional rhythm techniques to developing his unmistakable lead style, he talks about the journey that helped define his sound in bluegrass music.

Josh and Kenny also dive into one of Kenny’s biggest passions—vintage guitars. They discuss what makes an old instrument special, how tone changes with age, and some of the memorable guitars Kenny has played throughout his career. Guitar enthusiasts will especially enjoy hearing Kenny’s thoughts on craftsmanship, wood, setup, and what he listens for when choosing an instrument.

Episode 100 is one we’ll never forget. We had the honor of recording this milestone episode live at the Grand Ole Opry during their historic 100th anniversary celebration. It was an unforgettable night filled with incredible music, special moments, and the kind of memories that only happen at a place as legendary as the Opry.

Adding to the excitement, Josh took the stage playing guitar with Rhonda Vincent, making the evening even more meaningful. After the show, we had the chance to sit down with Rhonda for a special interview, where she shared stories, reflections, and what this night meant to her.

From the stage lights to the backstage conversations, Episode 100 captures a truly special night in bluegrass and country music history. Join us as we celebrate this milestone episode from one of the most iconic stages in the world.

Welcome to Episode 99! Josh and Tim recorded this week’s episode on location at beautiful Columbus-Belmont State Park with a great view and plenty of bluegrass talk.

In this episode, we discuss Batts Music & Media’s upcoming bluegrass festival, Bluegrass On The Bluff, happening June 6. We share details about the event, what attendees can expect, and why this festival is shaping up to be a special day for bluegrass fans, families, and the community.

Topics covered in this episode:

Recording on location at Columbus-Belmont State Park

The vision behind Bluegrass On The Bluff

Festival plans for June 6

Live music, fellowship, and community fun

Supporting bluegrass music through Batts Music & Media

Thank you for listening and supporting the show as we approach our 100th episode milestone! Be sure to share this episode with a friend and make plans now to join us for Bluegrass On The Bluff on June 6.

In this heartfelt episode, Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with bluegrass legend Don Rigsby for a deeply personal conversation about music, legacy, and family.

Don shares the story behind his latest single with his band Southern Legacy, titled “Bill from Isonville.” The song is a tribute to his late father, Bill Rigsby, and carries a powerful emotional weight that resonates far beyond the bluegrass world.

Tim, Josh, and Don reflect on:

The inspiration behind writing “Bill from Isonville”

The influence of Don’s father on his life and musical journey

How songs rooted in personal loss can connect with a wide audience

Why this track especially speaks to those who have lost their dads

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a reminder of how music helps us process grief, honor those we love, and find common ground through shared experiences.

Whether you’re a lifelong bluegrass fan or simply someone who understands the bond between a father and child, this is an episode that will stay with you.

🎧 Tune in and experience the story behind the song.