In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Rita Bliss, a fantastic musician, songwriter, and banjo player whose work blends old-time, Americana, and folk traditions with a fresh, personal twist. We discuss her musical journey, the deep roots of music in her family, and how growing up surrounded by instruments and storytelling influenced her voice and perspective. Rita opens up about her move to Austin, the vibrant music scene there, and how it’s influenced her as both a performer and a writer.

We dive into her songwriting process, the role of the banjo in her music, and the joy (and challenge) of recording and releasing new work. Rita shares some behind-the-scenes stories from recent singles and what it’s like to bring those songs to life in the studio. There’s also a lot of warmth in how she talks about live performances, that real-time connection with an audience that keeps the music breathing and evolving.

Originally from New York, Rita has carved out a unique voice in the Americana world with a sound that’s both grounded in tradition and deeply personal. Her thoughtful lyrics, intricate banjo work, and easygoing presence make her a compelling artist to watch. Toward the end of our conversation, we talk about what’s next, from upcoming shows to future releases, and it’s clear that Rita Bliss is just getting started.

To learn more about Rita, please visit her website.

Music from the episode:
Peaches & Apple Pie (Rita Bliss)
Drive You to Kentucky (Rita Bliss)
Best Bar in Texas (Rita Bliss)
We Will Sing (Rita Bliss)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at [email protected].

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.