Tent Show Radio

First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio, hosted New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry, is a weekly one-hour radio program showcasing the best live recordings from acclaimed music acts and entertainers who grace the Big Top Chautauqua stage each summer in beautiful Bayfield, WI.

Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter 08/21/2024

Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter On this episode of Tent Show Radio, Rock n Roll recording artists and globetrotting journeymen, Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter perform a career spanning set, showcasing songs off their collaborative EP Rollers. For nearly four decades Donavon Frankenreiter has been traveling the globe, first as a professional surfer and now as a musician. With over a dozen albums under his belt, Frankenreiter has worked it on the touring trail worldwide for three decades. Donavon is a brand ambassador for Flying Embers as well as Sanuk Footwear and also co-owner of Humble Brands, Caddis Eyewear and several other companies. Blues Music Award-winning singer, guitarist, songwriter, and producer Devon Allman (son of Rock legend Gregg Allman) has appeared at the world’s biggest festivals and has co-founded the supergroups Royal Southern Brotherhood and The Allman Betts Band amassing a recording catalog of 11 albums. He writes a column for Guitar Player Magazine, is endorsed by Gibson guitars, and serves on the board of directors for the National Blues Museum. In June of 2023, Allman & Frankenreiter released their collaborative EP, Rollers, a 6-song collection, produced by Luther Dickinson of the multiple Grammy-nominated North Mississippi Allstars and mastered by Brad Sarno at Blue Jade Audio, featuring previously released singles “Calling All You Riders” and “See It All” as well as a guest appearance from Maggie Rose on the track “We Belong.” The songs on Rollers serve as the soundtrack for the duo’s world-record breaking See It All Tour, where Allman and Frankenreiter set the Official World Record for fastest time to play a concert in each of the 50 states. The execution was brutal, but the rock ‘n’ roll recording artists and longtime friends, along with their talented band mates – Matt Grundy (bass), John Lum (drums), David Gomez (percussion, sax), Jackson Stokes (guitar), were successful in breaking the previous record, playing 50 shows in 49 days in the summer of 2023, one of those dates being under the tent at Big Top Chautauqua. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32685047

Glenn Miller Orchestra 08/21/2024

Glenn Miller Orchestra On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy an invigorating hour of jazz as the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra showcase the unforgettable musical legacy of one of the most iconic bandleaders of all time. Considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time, the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra continues to keep Miller’s legendary jazzy sound alive onstage for old-time fans and new generations alike. Known for timeless classics like “In the Mood”, “Moonlight Serenade”, “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, and “Tuxedo Junction” the iconic bandleader's famous orchestra proves his unforgettable music is alive and well nearly 80 years after his passing. While the first Glenn Miller Orchestra was a total and absolute economic failure, Miller was dedicated to his dreams and relentlessly worked until he succeeded. He launched his second band in March of 1938, and The Glenn Miller Orchestra became the most sought-after big band in the world. A matchless string of hit records, the constant impact of radio broadcasts and the drawing power at theaters, hotels and dance pavilion, built and sustained the momentum of popularity. After joining the army in 1942, the band was temporarily disbanded while Miller organized and led the famous Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band which traveled through Europe to entertain servicemen. After disappearing on a flight mission in 1944, the army declared Miller dead in 1945. Following the release of the movie The Glenn Miller Story in 1954, there was growing and renewed interest in Miller’s music legacy. Miller’s estate authorized the formation of the present Glenn Miller Orchestra under the direction of drummer Ray McKinley, and since 1956, the band has been touring consistently, playing an average of 300 live shows around the world every year. Revered for its own unique and distinctive big band sound, The Glenn Miller Orchestra has always been very musical, disciplined, and visually entertaining. That sound is created by the clarinet holding the melodic line, doubled or coupled with the tenor sax playing the same notes; and the harmonies produced by three other saxophones, while growling trombones and wailing trumpets add their oo-ahs. Led by tenor saxophonist Erik Stabnau, the 18-member ensemble continue to play many of Miller’s original arrangements both from the civilian band and the AAFB libraries. The band also plays more modern selections arranged and performed in the Miller style and sound. Just as it was in Glenn’s day, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is still the most sought-after big band in the world. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32685002

The Jerry Douglas Band 08/09/2024

The Jerry Douglas Band On this episode of Tent Show Radio, The Jerry Douglas Band showcase dazzling displays of exquisite musicianship in an hour of performances highlighting the dobro master's legendary career. 14-time Grammy winner Jerry Douglas is a bandleader, producer, session musician, instructor, and a very funny guy! He’s produced over a hundred albums and he’s featured on over 1,600 studio albums. He’s a member of Alison Kraus & Union Station, co-bandleader for Transatlantic Sessions in the United Kingdom, founder for the Grammy winner bluegrass supergroup The Earls of Leicester, and he leads The Jerry Douglas Band. Since 2017, The Jerry Douglas Band has been forging new paths into the musical horizon with deep roots in bluegrass and folk that spreads out into the Americana and jazz landscapes. In 2021, The Jerry Douglas Band released an album, Leftover Feelings , with legendary singer songwriter John Hiatt. The album was nominated for a 2022 Grammy for “Best Americana Album,” and their previous record What If also received a Grammy nomination for “Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.” They perform at some of the top US festivals such as Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Pilgrimage Music Festival, Big Ears Festival, DelFest, FreshGrass, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, Merlefest, and many others. In addition to Douglas, The Jerry Douglas Band includes Daniel Kimbro on bass, Christian Sedelmyer on fiddle, and Mike Seal on guitar. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32508262

The Wailin' Jennys 08/09/2024

The Wailin' Jennys On this episode of Tent Show Radio, beloved singer/songwriter trio The Wailin' Jennys perform a career spanning set, showcasing some of the most exciting and exquisite music on the folk-roots scene. The Wailin’ Jennys are Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse —three distinct voices that together make an achingly perfect vocal sound. Musical chemistry and a dedicated following turned this one-off grouping of three singer/songwriters into one of today’s most beloved international folk groups. Although known primarily as an acoustic outfit, The Wailin’ Jennys have a wide range of musical backgrounds that have formed their musical sensibilities. After the 2004 release of their first-full length album, the critically acclaimed 40 Days , and due to their frequent appearances on Garrison’s Keillor’s public radio show A Prairie Home Companion, The Jennys exploded onto the roots music scene, performing at packed venues across the U.S. and throughout the world. Their next album, Firecracker , was a powerful follow-up to their debut album and found The Jennys stepping out of the folk realm and into the world of alt-country, pop and rock. Garnering much attention, it was nominated for a Juno Award and won a 2007 Folk Alliance Award for “Contemporary Release of the Year.” It charted for over 56 weeks on the Billboard charts and was followed up by their 2009 release Live at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, which spent over a year on the Billboard bluegrass charts. Through numerous solo endeavors and more than twenty years since their formation, The Wailin’ Jennys continue to create some of the most exciting and exquisite music on the folk-roots scene, stepping up their musical game with each critically-lauded recording and thrilling audiences with their renowned live performances. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32508242

Corey Carlson & The Big City Band 08/09/2024

Steve Earle and Zandi Holup 07/18/2024

Steve Earle and Zandi Holup With a career spanning over four decades, Steve Earle has proven himself a master storyteller and one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation. In 1986, his record Guitar Town, was released to wide-spread critical acclaim, shooting to number one on the country charts, and is today, regarded as a classic of the Americana genre. While he first won an audience as a country artist, it didn't take long for him to demonstrate that designation was too narrow for him. His rough neck poetics, outspoken and unapologetic lyrical stance, and literate yet down to earth musings, have captivated audiences across genres, with his music running the gamut from country, bluegrass, and folk to the blues, roots, and rock. With 22 studio albums under his belt, he has found room for both personal and the political, often writing about the stuff of everyday life and the forces that shape and define our existence. Some of his most notable releases including his commercial breakthrough Copperhead Road (1988), and Grammy Award winning records The Revolution Starts...Now (2004), Washington Square Serenade (2007), and TOWNES (2009). The versatility in his discography, the strength of his work, and consistent critical acclaim has helped Earle attract a loyal following, who are more than happy to continue following his stylistic evolution. Cut from the same cloth as legendary folk singer-songwriters like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell, Zandi Holup's raw brand of original folk country flourishes through raw unfiltered storytelling reminiscent of Dolly Parton and emphasized by her emotive vocals. Her edgy, deeply emotional lyrics and unique voice set her apart. She sings about the good, the bad, and the ugly. Her music is a voice for the unheard. A Grassroots following placed her on the map as snippets of demos and unreleased songs resonated across social media in increasing numbers. Her first release, “Wait for You,” sat at No. 1 on the all-genre Spotify Fresh Finds playlist, amassing over a million streams with no promotion outside of her TikTok following. Named a 2023 Artist to Watch by The Nashville Briefing, Holup signed a publishing deal with Arthouse Entertainment and TurnTable Music in partnership with Universal Music Publishing, and a record deal with Big Loud Records in 2023. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKS /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32190897

A Salute to Glen Campbell 07/18/2024

A Salute to Glen Campbell On this episode of Tent Show Radio, experience a heartwarming presentation of Glen Campbell’s biggest hits and the stories behind them, delivered by the music legend’s band leader and guitarist of 15 years, Jeff Dayton. Nashville artist Jeff Dayton’s career is a success story built on hard work, faith and professionalism. The Minnesota native grew up heavily influenced by the music of guitar greats like Eric Clapton, Jerry Reed, Jimi Hendrix and, naturally, Glen Campbell. He formed the Jeff Dayton Band in Phoenix, Arizona in 1980. With a regional #1 hit under his belt, they opened shows for countless artists and major tours that passed through the city, eventually catching the eye of Glen Campbell who would quickly change his career forever. Dayton became Glen Campbell’s right-hand man, spending 15 years as the legendary musician’s guitarist and band leader. From the 1980’s to the 2000’s, they toured around the world and across all 50 states, performed at the White House, and appeared together on The Today Show and Glen’s PBS special with the South Dakota Orchestra. In the years that followed, Dayton had the honor of backing artists including Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Toby Keith, Buck Owens, Tracy Byrd, Bo Diddley, Dizzy Gillespie, Gene Autry, Mac Davis and would tour with megastar Kenny Chesney, Lee Greenwood, Sarah Darling, Tammy Cochran and others. After Glen Campbell’s passing in 2017, Jeff got so many requests for a show of the icon's music that he launched “Salute to Glen Campbell,” an intimate, upbeat presentation of his hits and the first-person stories of their years together. Dayton has created a truly uplifting and sentimental first-person tribute to one of the greatest artists of all time; he shares the stories behind the songs, the records Glen played on as a member of the Wrecking Crew in his LA studio days, and of course, some of Campbell’s classic country humor. Jeff Dayton continues to lead the band, which includes original drummer Tom Benton, as they perform to sold-out crowds across the country, playing hits like “Wichita Lineman,” “Gentle On My Mind,” “Rhinestone Cowboy,” and all the rest, just as they were performed with Glen Campbell. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKS /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32190807

Brulé 07/18/2024

Brulé On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy thrilling performances from award-winning Native American music group Brulé. Brulé has pushed the boundaries of contemporary Native American rhythms and classic rock in their genre-blending selections. Their electrifying show consists of a rock ensemble augmented with an array of traditional Native American instrumentation. Paired with the stunning choreography of one of the top Native American dance troupes, their authenticity brings a multi-dimensional art form to this cultural rock opera. The musical journey of Brulé’s founder, Paul LaRoche, adds an affecting story to audiences and has been well documented in the best-selling biography "Hidden Heritage". Brulé is seen regularly on national PBS affiliates across the country. Their history-making concert, “Brulé, Live at Mount Rushmore—Concert for Reconciliation of the Cultures”, has become the longest running Native American concert special on national TV. Brulé produced over 70 episodes of the TV Program “Hidden Heritage” for RFD-TV. RFDTV is a cable TV network that broadcasts to over 40 million homes across the United States and international markets. The show “Hidden Heritage” presents positive stories from across Native America. A keynote presentation and workshop series has also been developed that encompasses the full body of Brulé work over the past 26 years. The presentation examines Brulé's mission of reconciliation of the cultures and focuses on the current state of Native America as it attempts to merge into the mainstream entertainment industry. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Matt Jugeinhemer - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/32190787

Ladies of the Canyon 06/29/2024

Pickin' on Rock 06/20/2024

Trapper Schoepp 06/20/2024

Trapper Schoepp On this episode of Tent Show Radio, Milwaukee singer/songwriter Trapper Schoepp performs tunes from his latest release, Siren Songs. Trapper Schoepp is a storyteller. Both in his songs and between them in live performances, he seemingly never tires of telling stories—his own and those he witnesses, learns about and dreams up. Through his unwavering commitment to authenticity and unrelenting passion for storytelling, Schoepp not only pays homage to the roots of American music but also pushes the boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving tapestry of sound. In 2019, Milwaukee’s Trapper Schoepp hit a songwriter’s jackpot: a co-write with Bob Dylan. The circumstances behind the song titled, “On, Wisconsin” were wildly serendipitous, and made Schoepp the youngest musician to share a co-writing credit with the Nobel Prize laureate. A collaboration 57 years in the making, “On, Wisconsin” led to features in Rolling Stone and Billboard, an album called Primetime Illusion, and nearly a hundred international tour dates. Schoepp continues down the trail trod by his musical heroes with his latest release, Siren Songs, an album of 12 songs filled with timeless folklore and nautical imagery. In a fortunate stroke of serendipity, Trapper is joined on two tracks by Sarah Peasall McGuffey, who famously lent her vocal talents to the aforementioned film. Trapper sings alongside his brother and bassist, Tanner Schoepp, with characteristic blood harmony, the unique blend of sibling singers. The studio band included drummer Jon Radford (Justin Townes Earle), John Jackson on mandolin and violin, Patrick Sansone on keys, Quinn Scharber on Nashville tuned guitar, and Jim Hoke (Dolly Parton, Paul McCartney) on tin whistle and accordion. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Matt Jugeinhemer - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/31831017

Adam Greuel & The Space Burritos 06/20/2024

Good Morning Bedlam and Gareth Pearson 05/24/2024

Good Morning Bedlam and Gareth Pearson On this episode of Tent Show Radio, Midwest folk group Good Morning Bedlam showcases their exciting sound & soaring three-part harmonies, then, acoustic musician Gareth Pearson, known for his distinctive fingerstyle techniques, captivates with his creative and innovative arrangements. Good Morning Bedlam has become an innovative force in the Midwest folk scene. Their shows are known for their contagious energy, with members careening about the stage. With tight soaring three-part harmonies, and thumping kick-drum, they captivate their audience night after night. Every song is a unique twist on what is generally dubbed as folk music. In 2019, the folk-rock band from Minneapolis, MN claimed the first-place title at the John Hartford Memorial Festival Band Competition and were finalists at the NWSS Band Competition. Their shows are known for their wild energy and stunning harmonies. They have played at festivals alongside artists such as Shakey Graves, Sam Bush, Jason Isbell, The Infamous Stringdusters, Trampled By Turtles and others. In 2021, the band ran a successful Kickstarter in July of 2021 for their much anticipated third full-length record ‘Lulu’ where fans from around the world pledged a total of $34,000. Good Morning Bedlam has been featured on Bluegrass Today, Relix Magazine, Glide Magazine, and Paste Magazine. Now in 2023 the band is gearing up to release a brand-new EP titled Dear Day, Dear Darling in the Fall of this year. Referred to as "The Welsh Tornado," Gareth Pearson has emerged as one of the most exciting acoustic musicians of his generation. His distinctive style can be heard through his creative and innovative arrangements which cover a wide spectrum of genres including country/folk/classical/pop/rock/jazz/swing and bluegrass music, along with his own beautiful and often intricate original compositions, which serve in showcasing an enthusiasm and musical intuition well beyond his years. Influenced by guitar greats like Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, Tommy Emmanuel and Merle Travis, Gareth Pearson strays from the traditional style of the seated and motionless acoustic performances. An extremely entertaining and inspiring performer, Pearson exhibits immense love for the music he performs while he combines fingerstyle pyrotechnics, with explosive lead runs as his exuberant style denotes a mastery of the instrument very few possess. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Matt Jugeinhemer - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/31456557

Tommy Emmanuel 05/24/2024

Tommy Emmanuel On this episode of Tent Show Radio, experience the authentic ebullience of revered guitar master Tommy Emmanuel. Tommy was born in 1955 in Muswellbrook, New South Wales Australia, and started playing the guitar at age four. In his twenties, he was the most sought-after performer and session musician in Sydney. By age 30, he was burning on electric guitar with several rock bands in stadiums across Europe. He could have gone on to live the rock star life. Yet, he yearned for something purer and closer to his heart. Casting off the reliable rock band engine of monstrous sonics blasting, Tommy went acoustic. The inspiration for Tommy’s transformation was his hero, Chet Atkins, who represented the purity of one man, one guitar, and unlimited passion for serving the song. Eventually Tommy met his hero and started a lifelong friendship which shaped Tommy’s music forever. Chet welcomed Tommy into guitarist knighthood by bestowing upon him the coveted title of CGP (Certified Guitar Player), an honor awarded only to four other humans ever. The real-time exuberance Tommy Emmanuel brings to every note of every song he plays is palpable and infectious. His fans are in love with his unbound talent as a guitarist of multitudes, his ability to play three parts at once, always with pure heart and real soul. He is a true virtuoso. But he seems as delighted always with the magic of the music as the audience, if not more, and his joy illuminates everything. It’s one thing to play these multi-dimensional arrangements flawlessly on an acoustic guitar. But to do it with that smile of the ages, that evidence of authentic, unbridled delight, is an irresistibly infectious invitation to feel his music as deeply as he does. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Matt Jugeinhemer - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/31360872

Pride Anthems 05/24/2024

Riding The Wind 05/02/2024

Gaelic Storm 05/02/2024

Gaelic Storm On this episode of Tent Show Radio, the critically acclaimed, chart-topping, international outfit Gaelic Storm bring their unique, high-energy Celtic sound to the Big Top stage. It’s hard to imagine Gaelic Storm coming into its own after 20 years of success, but that’s precisely what makes the group a true anomaly. Founded in 1996, the band’s first major career breakthrough arrived before they had even recorded their first album. Appearing as the "steerage band" entertaining passengers with “An Irish Party in Third Class” in James Cameron's massive 1997 blockbuster Titanic, Gaelic Storm were widely embraced by audiences when they released their self-titled debut album a year later. Led by founding members Patrick Murphy and Steve Twigger, the acclaimed multi-national Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and as you can imagine, after two decades and over 2000 shows (13 of which have been on the Big Top stage), it is a true force to be reckoned with. With their energetic mix of Irish and Scottish traditional fare, drinking songs, and playful original material they have developed a fanatic and well-diversified fan base. Country Music fans adore their storytelling, Bluegrass fans love the instrumentals, Celtic fans love their devotion to tradition, and rock fans simply relish the passion they have for their instruments. Throughout their multi-decade career, Gaelic Storm has amassed more than 250 million streams, racked up numerous Top 10 spots on the Billboard World Charts, and released 13 studio albums including How Are We Getting Home?, Bring Yer Wellies, and What’s The Rumpus. With their most recent release Go Climb A Tree, their music has never sounded more representative of themselves as musicians and as live performers. In addition to Murphy and Twigger, the band features percussionist Ryan Lacey, piper Peter Purvis, and fiddle player Natalya Kay. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/31094868

John Prine 05/02/2024

John Prine On this episode of Tent Show Radio, we pay tribute to the late John Prine with highlights of some of his best performances under the Big Top. One of the most celebrated singer/songwriters of his generation, John Prine was a master storyteller whose work was often witty and always heartfelt, frequently offering a sly but sincere reflection of his Midwestern roots, writing about the lives of ordinary people in a remarkable and perceptive way. While Prine's songs were most often rooted in folk and country flavors, he was no stranger to rock & roll, R&B, and rockabilly, and could readily adapt his rough but expressive voice to his musical surroundings. Prine's self-titled debut album, released in 1971, was widely regarded as an instant classic and featured some his best-known songs, including "Sam Stone," "Hello in There," "Paradise," and "Illegal Smile," while 1972's Diamonds in the Rough was considered nearly as strong. 1978's Bruised Orange was a low-key return to the tone of his debut, and 1979's Pink Cadillac was a tribute to his love of rockabilly and first-generation rock & roll. In the 1980s, Prine broke away from the major labels to form his own label, Oh Boy Records, and working at his own pace and following his own inclinations, he produced a handful of fine and idiosyncratic albums, including 1991's The Missing Years, the 1999 duets collection In Spite of Ourselves, and 2018's graceful finale The Tree of Forgiveness. The Tree of Forgiveness was a critical and commercial success, rising to number five on the Top 200 albums chart, peaking at number two on the Country Albums chart, and going all the way to number one on the Folk albums chart. The Tree of Forgiveness would prove to be Prine's last hurrah; he died on April 7, 2020, from complications of the COVID-19 virus at 73 years old. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/31094818

Riders In The Sky 04/12/2024

Ladysmith Black Mambazo 04/10/2024

Ladysmith Black Mambazo On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy a thrilling hour of music from South Africa’s Five Time Grammy Award winning singing group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Called South Africa’s Cultural Ambassadors to the World by Nelson Mandela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, was founded in the early 1960s by Joseph Shabalala, then a teenage Zulu farm boy living on the lands just outside the small town of Ladysmith. In 1970, a radio broadcast of one of their concerts opened the door to their first record contract. Singing a traditional style called isicathamiya (is-cot-a-ME-Ya), developed in the mines of South Africa, they collaborated with Paul Simon, incorporating their rich harmonies into the Graceland album (1986) – a landmark recording considered seminal in introducing World Music to mainstream audiences. The group would go on to record with Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton, Sarah McLachlan, Josh Groban, Emmylou Harris and many others. They provided music for many movies, have appeared on Broadway and were even the subjects of a documentary film, On Tip Toe: The Story of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which was nominated for an Academy Award. Their historic recording career includes over seventy albums, earning nineteen Grammy Award nominations and five Grammy Award wins, more than any other World Music group. They earned Grammys for their albums: Shaka Zulu (1988), Raise Your Spirit Higher (2004), Ilembe (2009), Singing For Peace Around the World (2013) and most recently Shaka Zulu Revisited: 30 Year Anniversary Celebration (2017). EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/30668718

Them Coulee Boys 03/29/2024

Them Coulee Boys On this episode of Tent Show Radio, experience a high voltage hour of countrified rock & roll as Wisconsin bred band Them Coulee Boys play tunes from their album Namesake. Them Coulee Boys craft a brand of Americana that blends folk, punk, bluegrass, and rock & roll. They sing their conversational songs in 4-part harmony, often with a banjo stomp and rhythm section punch that drives the audience onto the dance floor and into community. Their trusty van has propelled them thousands of miles across the country and into the hearts of strangers, who tend to leave each show as family. Soren Staff and Beau Janke, who both grew up amidst a stretch of glacial melt-carved river valleys in the upper Midwest, and more often than not could be found with an instrument in hand, became fast friends and formed their electric music partnership, after having met as counselors at a bible camp in northern Wisconsin in 2011. The duo played their first gigs as the rough-around-the-edges folk/rock/Americana outfit Them Coulee Boys in 2013. The additions of Jens Staff on mandolin, Neil Kraus on guitar & bass, and Stas Hable on drums helped to grow the band into the rollicking outfit it is today. With three full-length albums and an EP behind them, including 2019’s Die Happy, they released their fourth studio album Namesake in 2021. The new album feels familial, like old friends with no need for small talk. There are moments of power and punch, balanced with an intimacy only felt between the ones we love. The ten-song collection spans from pure and genuine ballads to a leaping, countrified take on rock and roll. Namesake finds Them Coulee Boys following a new trajectory, combining their signature take on folk-grass and Americana with comfort on electric instruments and playing rock and roll. The record lives and breathes. It’s both intimate and bombastic. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Matt Jugeinhemer - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/30552098

Anishinaabe Dibaajimowin: An Ojibwe Story 03/21/2024

Different Drums of Ireland 03/15/2024

Joyann Parker: The Music of Patsy Cline 03/15/2024

Joyann Parker: The Music of Patsy Cline On this episode of Tent Show Radio, enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time as Joyann Parker beautifully weaves the stories of Patsy Cline’s life and career in and out of the music you know and love. In this powerful tribute performance, Parker and her seasoned band showcase the most popular and best loved of Pasty’s songs. Vintage costumes and ambiance enhance Joyann’s uncanny and authentic channeling of Cline’s classic vocals. Hear Patsy’s iconic songs like “Crazy,” “Walking After Midnight,” “Sweet Dreams,” “Faded Love,” “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray,” “She’s Got You” and many more! A northern Wisconsin native, Joyann Parker, like many artists, discovered her love of music at a very young age. While the multifaceted and versatile performer found her authentic voice later in life, she has created her inimitable blend of roots music that fuses soul, gospel, R&B, and traditional blues - combined with a voice that is booming and soulful - Joyann Parker is establishing herself as a masterclass performer. Steadily a rising star on the Midwest music scene, with two critically acclaimed studio albums under her belt, 2018's Hard to Love, and 2021's Out of the Dark, numerous award nominations, and opening for award-winning artists like Robert Cray and Elvin Bishop, Parker is now bringing her full range of talent as an accomplished singer, pianist, guitarist and songwriter to national and international stages. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/30283168

Michael Perry & The Long Beds 03/02/2024

Michael Perry & The Long Beds On this episode of Tent Show Radio, host & New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry and his band The Long Beds hit the Big Top stage. Michael Perry 's original songs are a direct reflection of his life experiences. Raised in rural Wisconsin by farmers, preachers, and tough country women, his songs reflect "certain wisdoms" available only from whistlers, frauds, and sinners. Ranging from straight-up twang to churchly harmonies and populated by characters drawn straight from rural and small-town America, they launch from places like the overpass outside Perry’s beloved hometown of New Auburn, Wisconsin (population currently 562), a gospel service in a granary, and the kitchen floor of a woman about to drop a world of hurt on her drunken husband. Raised in a church so austere that hymns were sung with no choir, no accompaniment, and no church (the congregation met in a farmhouse and sat on straight-backed wooden chairs,) Perry and his brother learned to sit side-by-side and work out harmonies on the fly. Those Sunday mornings instilled in Perry a love of singing “clear and pure” that can be heard throughout all of his recordings. Perry began writing music in the early 1990s as a way to break up all-night typing sessions when he was struggling to survive on prose. Eventually, a musician friend invited him to play a coffee shop gig. Since then, Michael has released 4 albums, several singles, and toured - backed by a collection of renowned musicians who have performed on numerous stages throughout the world (including The Tonight Show, Austin City Limits, and Eaux Claires festival) and worked with a host of artists, including Bon Iver, S. Carey, The Staves, Miley Cyrus, Lizzo, Field Report, The Tallest Man on Earth, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, and many more. Every Long Beds show is built on roughneck ballads and freight train rockers interspersed with hilarious off-the-cuff tales from Mike’s diverse experience as a Wisconsin farm kid turned cowboy turned nurse turned best-selling author. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/30195873

The Ozark Mountain Daredevils 02/23/2024

The Ozark Mountain Daredevils On this episode of Tent Show Radio, legendary Southern Rock band The Ozark Mountain Daredevils perform a career spanning set during their thrilling return to the Big Top stage. One of Southern rock’s more inventive exponents, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils have always been indefinable in terms of music genres, producing sounds of country-rock and electric bluegrass all on the same record, writing lyrics both whimsical and poetic, and singing harmonies that send shivers up your spine. The Daredevils were formed in 1971 by the songwriting team of John Dillon, Randle Chowning, Larry Lee, and Steve Cash; with Michael "Supe" Granda and Buddy Brayfield completing the line-up. When the band emerged with their self-titled debut in 1973, they evoked not only the spirit of the age but the place from which they sprang: Springfield, Missouri, and the Ozarks—a place of pop, rock, country, mountain music, and much more. The critically acclaimed record, recorded in London under the direction of producer Glyn Johns, contained the US Top 30 single "If You Wanna Get To Heaven", while a second success, "Jackie Blue', which reached #3, came from the band's follow-up collection, “It'll Shine When It Shines.” Recorded at Randle Chowning's ranch, these records achieved “gold” status and showcased the group’s strong harmonies and intuitive musicianship. Following a hiatus, the Daredevils were reactivated in the late 1980’s by Dillon, Cash and Granda. The resulting album, “Modern History” found the band with a new lease on life as they carried on into the new millennium with a new line-up featuring Dillon, Cash, Granda, Ron Gremp (drums) and Bill Brown (guitar/vocals). In the years that followed, the Daredevils released a number of major label and independent record label recordings, traveled millions of miles performing throughout North America and Europe, and continued to grow and maintain a loyal and dedicated fan base throughout the world. Now more than 50 years since their founding, their songs are still regularly played on Classic Radio stations. With two of the original co-founders still on board, John Dillon (guitar, mandolin, vocals) & Michael "Supe" Granda (bass, vocals), their current lineup of talented musicians includes Ron Gremp (drums), Ruell Chappell (vocals, percussion), Bill Jones (woodwinds, horns), Dave Painter (lead guitar), Nick Sibley (harmonica, guitar, vocals), Kelly Brown (keyboard), and Molly Healey (fiddle). With their signature sound and style remaining intact and vibrant, they continue to delight Dareheads with their live performances. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/30056473

Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter 02/19/2024

Glenn Miller Orchestra 02/12/2024

The Jerry Douglas Band 02/03/2024

The Wailin Jenny's 01/26/2024

The Wailin Jenny's On this episode of Tent Show Radio, beloved singer/songwriter trio The Wailin' Jennys perform a career spanning set, showcasing some of the most exciting and exquisite music on the folk-roots scene. The Wailin’ Jennys are Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse —three distinct voices that together make an achingly perfect vocal sound. Musical chemistry and a dedicated following turned this one-off grouping of three singer/songwriters into one of today’s most beloved international folk groups. Although known primarily as an acoustic outfit, The Wailin’ Jennys have a wide range of musical backgrounds that have formed their musical sensibilities. After the 2004 release of their first-full length album, the critically acclaimed 40 Days , and due to their frequent appearances on Garrison’s Keillor’s public radio show A Prairie Home Companion, The Jennys exploded onto the roots music scene, performing at packed venues across the U.S. and throughout the world. Their next album, Firecracker , was a powerful follow-up to their debut album and found The Jennys stepping out of the folk realm and into the world of alt-country, pop and rock. Garnering much attention, it was nominated for a Juno Award and won a 2007 Folk Alliance Award for “Contemporary Release of the Year.” It charted for over 56 weeks on the Billboard charts and was followed up by their 2009 release Live at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, which spent over a year on the Billboard bluegrass charts. Through numerous solo endeavors and more than twenty years since their formation, The Wailin’ Jennys continue to create some of the most exciting and exquisite music on the folk-roots scene, stepping up their musical game with each critically-lauded recording and thrilling audiences with their renowned live performances. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Keenan McIntyre - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW HOST MICHAEL PERRY 2024 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Kylmala Truss - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/29622213

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