Southern Americana

Americana means many things to many people. For some, it's music; for others, it's a way of life. The goal is to take you on a journey of Americana's music, people and places, especially as it relates to the South. Recorded in the scenic community of Leiper's Fork, TN, we'll bring you in-depth interviews that help you better connect to the Americana lifestyle.

Flagship Romance 06/04/2025

Flagship Romance Flagship Romance is composed of the husband and wife team of Shawn Fisher and Jordyn Jackson. The Louisville, KY based duo has traveled over 300,000 miles delighting fans with their unique Americana mix. I sat down with Shawn and Jordyn at Shack's Art Gallery in Grayton Beach after they performed in Seaside, Florida. Listen to their road stories and how the miles enhance their songwriting and relationships. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/36843045

Blackberry Smoke Guitartist's Charlie Starr & Benji Shanks 02/11/2025

Blackberry Smoke Guitartist's Charlie Starr & Benji Shanks Charlie Starr is a founding member of the Atlanta-based southern rock band Blackberry Smoke. Guitarist Benji Shanks joined the band in 2018 as a multi-instrumentalist. In addition to embarking on their new tour, "Rattle, Rumble & Roll," this duo performed at the 2025 30A Songwriters Festival. We sat down in the podcast studio at Shacks Art Gallery in Grayton Beach, FL, to discuss their musical careers and life on the road. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/35105100

Richard Turner 01/31/2025

Richard Turner Richard Turner is a founding member of the southern rock group Blackberry Smoke. Together with his brother Brit, their longtime drummer, they joined forces with guitarist and lead vocalist Charlie Starr to form the iconic band, which has been touring since 2000. His bass lines play a crucial role in establishing the band's steady rhythm. In this episode, he discusses growing up in a music-influenced household, how the two brothers started playing together, the formation of Blackberry Smoke, life on the road, and his bass gear. Blackberry Smoke recently embarked on their Rattle, Ramble, and Roll tour. You can find show dates and follow the group at . /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/35103945

Ben Larsen, Razorbackology 09/26/2024

Ben Larsen, Razorbackology University of Arkansas alum and founder Ben Larsen is a life-long Arkansas Razorback sports fan. Ben discusses the latest happenings withing the Razorback sports program, along with tailgating suggestions for fans visiting Fayetteville. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/33127917

John T. Edge 09/19/2024

John T. Edge John T. Edge is a prolific, award-winning Southern food writer, TV host, Writer-In-Residence at the University of Mississippi, and a visiting professor at the University of Georgia. As a graduate student in 1998, Edge helped organize the Southern Foodways Alliance, an organization he led until an unforeseen and unnecessary controversy motivated him to retire in 2021. Edge is a contributing editor for Garden & Gun magazine and a former New York Times and Oxford American contributor. He also writes and hosts TrueSouth, an SEC Network TV series that profiles people and restaurants impacting the region's food scene. Currently, Edge is writing a memoir scheduled for publication in 2025. He's written numerous books, including The Potlikker Papers: A Food History of the Modern South. Edge lives in Oxford, Mississippi, with his wife, Blair Hobbs, an acclaimed author and university instructor. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/33125422

Kevin Elliott, the Revitalization of Panama City 08/29/2024

Kevin Elliott, the Revitalization of Panama City Kevin Elliott fell in love with Panama City, Florida, in the late 1980s as a 13-year-old military transplant. Today, not only does this entrepreneur host one of the Emerald Coast's most successful film festivals, but he's also an ardent supporter and the city's "unofficial ambassador." After spending a couple of decades on the corporate merry-go-round, Kevin exercised his creative energy by founding , a company specializing in commercial film work and documentaries. Concurrently, Kevin saw an opportunity to highlight both Panama City’s downtown and documentary films by co-founding the in 2024. Kevin explains the history of Panama City, the devastation caused by two major hurricanes, and how a fledging downtown gained new life throuhg the vision of local and transplant creatives. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/32791052

Denny Tedesco 04/23/2024

Denny Tedesco Los Angeles-based Denny Tedesco is an award-winning documentary producer and director. His credits include The Wrecking Crew, which showcases his father, Tommy Tedesco, and the LA session players such as Glen Campbell, Leon Russell, Carol Kaye, Hal Blaine and many others who recorded thousands of hit records and soundtracks from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. Denny's most recent project, Immediate Family (available on Amazon), features the session musicians (Waddy Watchel, Russ Kunkel, Leland Sklar, Danny Kortchmar, Steve Powell) who played for James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, and Linda Ronstadt, among others. Both of these documentaries are "must-sees" for any music fan. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/30898613

Jeff Daniels, Non-Fiction Coffee 01/23/2024

Jeff Daniels, Non-Fiction Coffee Most everyone enjoys a cup of coffee to jumpstart the day. Jeff Daniels, the Director of Sales at , provides insight on making a better cup at home or knowing what questions to ask your local barista. Based in Pelham, Alabama, Non-Fiction Coffee strives to roast the best coffee while dignifying the coffee producers they work with and buy from worldwide. Jeff describes how Non-Fiction selects their growers and the details behind the roasting process, including tips on brewing or purchasing better coffee. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/29614333

The Currys 09/11/2023

The Currys , an Americana-flavored musical trio formed of two brothers and a cousin in 2013, continues developing a fan base outside their southern roots. This episode was recorded at SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach, FL, before their Camp Helen State Park performance. I hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we had while recording. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/27946287

David Dunavent: Blues Historian & Singer-Songwriter 08/04/2023

David Dunavent: Blues Historian & Singer-Songwriter David Dunavent grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi, along the banks of the Mississippi River, and in the heart of "Blues Country." Not only is David an accomplished singer-songwriter who tours extensively across the Southeastern U.S., he also has an incredible knowledge of Blues history. Recorded in SOWAL House, in Rosemary Beach, FL, join us as we talk about how the Blues originated and its impact on all genres of music and musicians. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/27660732

Taki Brown: Poet Renaissance Man 06/12/2023

Taki Brown: Poet Renaissance Man A native of Jackson, Tennessee, Taki Brown writes and delivers original rhymed and narrative poetry. After meeting at SOWAL House Creative Studio in 2022, I sat down with Taki to discuss our Tennessee background and his creative work. When not writing, he donates his time to community service projects, mentoring youth, and hosting jazz and blues events. You can follow Taki's Instagram page at taki_brown. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/27120048

Chef John Currence of Oxford, MS 11/23/2022

Chef John Currence of Oxford, MS Regarded as one of the South's best chefs, John Currence made a name for himself in the 1990s when he opened City Grocery in Oxford, Mississippi. Today the also includes Boure, Snack Bar, and the fast-growing chain Big Bad Breakfast. I sat down with Chef Currence in his Oxford home on a fall evening to chat about all things Southern, including the hospitality industry, his favorite dishes, SEC football, and bourbon. A Louisiana native, Currence was named the Best Chef South in 2009 by the prestigious James Beard Foundation. He also won the Charleston Wine and Food Festival's Iron Chef Challenge that same year. His three cookbooks are "Tailgreat," "Big Bad Breakfast," and "Pickles, Pigs, & Whiskey." No trip to Oxford, MS, is complete without visiting one of Chef Currence's establishments. Big Bad Breakfast restaurants are located throughout the South. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/25114314

Mary Alayne Long: Southern Storyteller 11/04/2022

Mary Alayne Long: Southern Storyteller There is no question that Mary Alayne Long (@thealabamahousewife) is a "Southerner" through and through. After hearing her read at an Emerald Coast Storytellers gathering, I knew I had to meet her. After all, true Southerners can spot each other a mile away. Born and raised in Heflin, Alabama, Mary Alayne married in her early twenties and began raising her two wonderful children. Along the way, she nurtured a love for writing, which led to writing for . Anyone who encounters this genuine Southern Belle will quickly discover her captivating humor, wrapped tightly in an engaging personality that captures the essence of "Southern Hospitality." Mary Alayne Long is the obvious choice for any U.S. President to name an Ambassador for the South. I sat down with Mary Alayne at SOWAL House, a creative studio in the heart of Rosemary Beach, FL, to discuss our shared admiration for all things Southern and her plans to launch a magazine highlighting her absolute favorite region, the Southeast United States. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/24908025

Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji 04/06/2022

Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji Emmanuel Kemiji became only the 12th American to achieve the rank of Master Sommelier and one of nine to pass the exam on his first attempt. Born in the United States, Kemiji grew up in Spain and lives in Puerto Rico. He obtained degrees in Spanish Literature and Economics from the University of California at Davis, where he also studied Viticulture. Formally the Director of Wine & Spirits at the Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco, Kemiji is currently a managing partner at Clos Pissarra winery in Priorat, Spain, and the proprietor of Miura Vineyards in Santa Rosa, CA. While in town for the 30A Wine Festival, Kemiji sat down with me in the podcast studio at SOWAL House in Rosemary Beach, FL, to discuss his wines, the wine industry, and how to enjoy fine wine and food best. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/22703690

Jaimen Hudson 02/26/2022

Jaimen Hudson At 17, Western Australian native Jaimen Hudson suffered a devastating injury that paralyzed him from the armpits down. Today he's a world-drone photographer, husband, and father with an astonishingly positive outlook. The documentary "From Sky to Sea" profiles Jaimen's story. This podcast originated from a recorded interview for a cover story in 30A.com's Beach Happy magazine. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/22264826

Maria D'Souza 01/07/2022

Maria D'Souza Maria D'Souza is an international artist who lives near Nashville, TN. Her is coveted by western enthusiasts and designers across the U.S. Maria has been featured in Cowboys & Indians and Belle Meade Lifestyle magazines. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/21708533

SFC Will Summers (USA, Ret.) 10/21/2021

SFC Will Summers (USA, Ret.) Sergeant First Class Will Summers retired from the U.S. Army in 2013. Along with a handful of his Special Forces buddies, today, they promote . Summers and 11 of his fellow Green Berets were featured in the movie "12 Strong," as the first group of soldiers to fight the Taliban after 9/11. I sat down with Will, along with Horse Soldier sales manager Merrick Mirabella at in Rosemary Beach, FL, to talk and taste Horse Soldier's three award-winning bourbons. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/20887931

Heidi Newfield 09/28/2021

Heidi Newfield Heidi Newfield always colors outside the lines. It's apparent in her songwriting and stage presence, whether blowing blues harmonica or singing her chart-topping lyrics. She grew up in rural California before moving to Nashville and joining Trick Pony. In 2008 she embarked on a solo career that continues to resonant in Country and Americana circles. Listen as Heidi shares many of her fondest memories and future dreams. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/20570795

Annie McFarland 09/21/2021

Annie McFarland Annie McFarland is awesome! Actually, Annie is the Director of Awesome at Piper Lou Collection, an awesome online retailer of caps, tumblers, t-shirts with the most incredible slogans anywhere. Months after her husband passed away from cancer, Annie received her own diagnosis. Determined not to allow these setbacks to deter her, Annie forged ahead to the "awesome" job she has today. Check out her awesome posts on all the major social media platforms. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/20551106

Anthea Turner of Anthea Le Jardin 08/04/2021

Anthea Turner of Anthea Le Jardin Anthea Turner is an entrepreneur and the owner of Anthea Le Jardin, a European-inspired boutique at The Hub on 30A near Watersound, Florida. Before opening in February 2020, Anthea spent 20 years in the jewelry industry, including three years working on cruise ships. Her unique boutique features one-of-a-kind jewelry, gift items, art, and clothing rarely found along 30A. Anthea is a true renaissance woman whose elegance is reflected in her personal style and creativity. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19998092

Mike Ragsdale 08/02/2021

Mike Ragsdale Mike Ragsdale and his family moved from Birmingham, Alabama, to Florida's 30a area in 2006. Within a few years, Mike created The 30A Company and , one of the nation's most popular lifestyle brands. The light blue and yellow 30A stickers and their beer and wines labels are now seen throughout the country. Mike discusses his path to Florida's Emerald Coast and the bumps and bruises he endured before hitting it big on 30A. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19998020

Devon Allman 06/08/2021

Devon Allman Devon Allman has quickly established himself as one of Southern Rock's best frontmen. He began his musical journey as a teenager, meeting his dad, the legendary southern rocker Greg Allman, at 16. Along with Duane Betts, the son of Allman Brothers band member Dickey Betts, they formed . The group's soulful, blues-based sound is reminiscent of their father's yet contains an original vibe not felt in years by true Southern Rock fans. I caught up with Devon while working on projects in his St. Louis area studio between tour dates. In late July, they begin the Spirit of the South Tour with Blackberry Smoke. Their latest album, Bless Your Heart, was released in 2020. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19398575

Kameron Marlowe 06/01/2021

Kameron Marlowe Kameron Marlowe grew up in Kannapolis, North Carolina. His love for music evolved while listening to talented country vocalists such as Ronnie Dunn and Travis Tritt. Both had a considerable influence on the singer’s style and voice inflections. During his formative teen years, he started singing and writing songs and playing in local bands. From The Voice to Nashville, Kameron Marlowe will be playing near you soon, so check out his music and listen to our conversation. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19151186

Alex Hall 05/27/2021

Alex Hall Country music recording artist Alex Hall grew up in Gainesville, Georgia. At the tender age of five, Alex wanted to learn to play guitar after hearing Elvis Presley's records. Unfortunately, his guitar instructor informed his parents that since he didn't know how to read, learning the instrument was useless. Fortunately, Alex resumed playing several years later and is writing and performing some amazing music. Listen as Alex shares the story of his Nashville experience and recording songs with Brad Paisley, Vince Gill, and others. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19151060

Shelly Fairchild 05/17/2021

Shelly Fairchild has solidified herself in the Nashville songwriting community, yet the Jackson, Mississippi native has endured her share of ups and downs. Her debut album, Ride, containing the song "You Don't Lie Here Anymore," introduced fans to her vocal acumen. Outside of her own songwriting and recording, Shelly has sung background vocals for superstars such as Jason Aldean, Martina McBride, Eric Church, and Crystal Gayle. Having proven she's not afraid to confront and conquer challenging issues, Shelly is a champion for many issues that are near and dear to her heart. You can catch Shelly at the Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach, Florida, on Friday, June 4. Recorded outside on Lake Powell and near 30A's Emerald Coastline, listen to this episode as Shelly describes her musical and personal successes. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19135892

CJ Solar 05/17/2021

CJ Solar pushes the boundaries of music by combining Southern rock with country, mixed with a bit of the Delta blues. A Cajun at heart, this Louisana native has caught the attention of industry insiders and fans after arriving in Nashville. CJ's songwriting credits include cuts by Morgan Wallen, Jerrod Niemann, and others. CJ opened for Lynyrd Skynyrd on select dates during their "Last of the Street Survivors Tour" and will be playing the 2021 Gulf Coast Jam along Flordia's Emerald Coast in early June. CJ joined us from his Nashville-area home to discuss influences on his songwriting and playing style. His latest single, "Get Away With It," is out, and other tunes like "Watered Down Whiskey" and "Airplane" showcase his vocal ability. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/19134002

Hit Songwriters Aimee Mayo & Chris Lindsey 04/27/2021

Hit Songwriters Aimee Mayo & Chris Lindsey Nashville songwriters Aimee Mayo and Chris Lindsey are married, and both have penned chart-topping hits together and separately. Aimee's recently released memoir, Talking to the Sky, is a raw page-turner full of stories that will keep you crying and laughing. Listen to our conversation as they discuss songwriting and the challenges of writing a candid memoir. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/18881654

Carol Chase 04/13/2021

Carol Chase Carol Chase is a backup vocalist for Lynyrd Skynrd and has been a band member since 1996. In addition to touring with this legendary group, Carol is a singer-songwriter and records her own material. Her latest project, Back to the Well, is available on her website at . /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/18707576

Trevor Finlay 04/12/2021

Trevor Finlay Trevor Finlay grew up in Ottawa, Ontario, and began playing guitar as a child. For the last 30 years, Trevor has made his living as a professional musician, writing such hit songs as "Send My Mail to Nashville." Until the COVID pandemic temporarily put the brakes on live music, Trevor played upwards of 300 dates a year. With David Lee Roth's looks, Eddie Van Halen's playing style, highlighted with some soulful blues licks, Trevor is one of the most versatile and humble performers I've encountered. We met in early March of 2020, and I caught up with my friend during a Florida panhandle tour in March of this year. You don't want to miss our conversation and what motivates this gifted singer-songwriter. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/18636686

Nashville Session Bass Player Alison Prestwood 03/22/2021

Nashville Session Bass Player Alison Prestwood grew up in Alabama with music in her soul. The multi-instrumentalist has played and recorded with many of Country and Americana's most successful and influential artists. A four-time nominee for Bass Player of the Year by the Academy of Country Music, Alison has toured and played with Rodney Crowell, Patty Loveless, and Olivia Newton-John. Besides playing on-stage with Trisha Yearwood, Wynona Judd, and Vince Gill, Alison played in the house band for the 2019 CMA Award Show. Alison has studied under legendary session bassist Carol Kayne and is also a die-hard fan of the Beatles and jazz composition. Besides her studio work, Alison just released her second album, Resolution, which also highlights her vocal and guitar abilities. Hear her tales of recording with many of Nashville's finest musicians and artists. /episode/index/show/southernamericana/id/18420035

Southern Americana

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