This episode of The Two for Tuesday Podcast takes a heartfelt look at country legend Joe Diffie. From his Oklahoma upbringing to the stories behind “Ships That Don’t Come In” and “Pickup Man,” we explore the songs, struggles, and soul of a ’90s icon who left an indelible mark on country music. 

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In this final chapter of our two-part journey through 5th Generation Country, host Michael Pezent unpacks the decade that took country music global and personal. From Tim McGraw’s heart-wrenching “Live Like You Were Dying” to Carrie Underwood’s career-defining “Before He Cheats,” this episode explores how country in the 2000s balanced vulnerability and vengeance, spiritual insight and stadium swagger. Featuring the artists who changed the sound, the culture, and the reach of country music forever.

🎧 Stream now and revisit the decade where country got personal—and went worldwide.

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 In this special two-part episode, host Michael Pezent pulls back the curtain on the decade that transformed country music. From the honky-tonk swagger of Garth Brooks to the global rise of Shania Twain, we explore how the 1990s launched a fifth-generation boom that changed the genre forever. With deep dives into two era-defining songs—“Friends in Low Places” and “You’re Still the One”—and a spotlight on legendary artists like Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn, Faith Hill, and the Dixie Chicks, this is the sound of country rising to meet the moment.
🎧 Stream now and step into the decade that took country to the world.

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 In this episode of The Two for Tuesday Podcast, host Michael Pezent dives into the trailblazing story of The Mavericks—a band that reshaped 90s country music with a sound all their own. From Miami roots to Nashville fame, we explore their unique blend of country, rock, and Latin influences. Featuring deep dives into their two defining songs—“What a Crying Shame” and “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down”—this episode celebrates the voice of Raul Malo and the enduring legacy of a truly original American band. 

"Amazing Grace" performed by Michael Pezent from his album Foundations and Family.

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In this week’s episode of The Two for Tuesday Podcast, host Michael Pezent takes a deep dive into the life, artistry, and legacy of Mary Chapin Carpenter, one of the most poetic and influential voices of the 1990s. Known for blending folk-inspired storytelling with contemporary country textures, Carpenter reshaped what lyrical honesty could sound like on country radio.

This episode explores two of her most defining works: “Passionate Kisses,” a Grammy-winning anthem of self-worth originally penned by Lucinda Williams, and “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” a powerful narrative portrait that helped amplify women’s voices in country music. Through detailed song origins, studio insights, production notes, and historical context, we reveal how these songs shaped Carpenter’s career—and how they continue to resonate decades later.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering these songs anew, this journey into Mary Chapin Carpenter’s world offers a deeper appreciation for her craft, her courage, and her enduring influence on American songwriting.

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 On this episode of The Two for Tuesday Podcast, host Michael Pezent traces the meteoric rise and lasting legacy of rock & roll pioneer Buddy Holly. From his Texas roots to international stardom, we uncover the stories behind two of his most iconic tracks—“That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue.” With rich studio history, lyrical insight, and cultural impact, this episode celebrates the music that still echoes long after “the day the music died.” 

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In this episode of The Two for Tuesday Podcast, host Michael Pezent takes us back to 1989, when a young Texas songwriter named Clint Black redefined country radio with two unforgettable singles: “A Better Man” and “Killin’ Time.”

We’ll explore the deeply personal stories behind these songs, the brilliant studio musicians who brought them to life, and how Black’s debut album became a landmark in the neo-traditional country revival. From chart-topping success to cultural legacy, this is a behind-the-scenes look at the lyrics, the legacy, and the late-night conversations that helped shape modern country music.

🎧 Stream the episode today and step inside the story behind the songs that launched Clint Black’s legendary career.

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In Memphis, tiny Stax Records grew into a soul powerhouse by ignoring the color line, Black and white musicians collaborated at this studio even as segregation gripped the South. They crafted anthems like Sam & Dave’s jubilant “Soul Man” and Otis Redding’s poignant “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” forging a legacy that transcended racial divides.

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After breaking from FAME, the Swampers’ own Muscle Shoals Sound Studio drew music’s unlikeliest pilgrims – from British rock stars to gospel legends. The Rolling Stones even rolled into Alabama to cut “Brown Sugar”, while The Staple Singers found a No. 1 hit, “I’ll Take You There,” backed by these hometown heroes.

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 In tiny Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Rick Hall’s FAME Studios gave birth to a new soul sound. Hear how a scrappy rhythm section nicknamed “The Swampers” and Atlantic Records producer Jerry Wexler transformed FAME into a hit factory. From Percy Sledge’s raw “When a Man Loves a Woman” to Aretha Franklin’s electrifying “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You),” this episode shows the Queen of Soul finding her voice.

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