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.

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

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

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/30024858

Glenn Miller Orchestra 02/12/2024

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/29852388

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

Corey Carlson & the Big City Band 01/19/2024

Steve Earle and Zandi Holup 01/11/2024

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/29437498

A Salute to Glen Campbell 01/05/2024

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/29329948

Rodrigo y Gabriela 12/29/2023

Rodrigo y Gabriela Originally from Mexico City Rodrigo y Gabriela, the acoustic guitar duo of Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero, met as teenagers while playing in a thrash metal band called Tierra Acida. By 2000 the formally became a duo act and moved to Dublin Ireland, where with the support of musician Damian Rice, the talented pair participated in the renowned Oxegen music festival in Ireland, where they attracted significant attention. From the beginning, their reputation as killer musicians - Rodrigo with the faster-than-lightning lead guitar and Gabriela with her unique, rhythmic, strumming-and-drumming style - started to spread across the country. The high-energy international duo's music harnesses the flash, power, and speed of death metal filtered through the passion, soul, technique, and discipline of nuevo flamenco. Their showy, emotional sound is marked by Quintero's syncopated, hooky, percussive rhythms and rapid-fire strummed vamps framing Sanchez's incendiary, melodic, single-and dual-string leads. Following a successful live album in 2004, their debut self-titled studio album, produced by John Leckie of Radiohead and Stone Roses fame, was released by Rubyworks in February 2006 and charted at Number One on the Irish national charts, keeping the Arctic Monkeys off the top spot. Having established themselves in their adopted home, the duo started to spread their magic across the rest of the world. They headlined the Jazz World stage at Glastonbury in 2007, which was broadcast live on BBC TV. The Rodrigo y Gabriela album went on to sell over 100,000 records in the UK. This episode features recordings from the acclaimed duo's 2019 performance at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/29265653

Shakey Graves 12/21/2023

Shakey Graves Americana singer-songwriter and guitarist Shakey Graves returned to Big Top following the celebratory reissue of his acclaimed debut album of Roll The Bones X. With his breakthrough debut album, Roll The Bones, self-released in 2011, Shakey Graves quickly developed a cult following, and began his extensive touring career, sharing stages with artists like Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Mumford & Sons and Old Crow Medicine Show. Roll The Bones, catapulted the singer/songwriter into national visibility and lead to the artist signing to Dulatone Records for future studio releases which included 2014's And The War Came and 2018's Can't Wake Up. In subsequent years, Shakey Graves has continued to experiment with his approach to the songwriting process and has explored more expansive full-band sounds while venturing into more psychedelic territory through many smaller EP releases including Look Alive, release in 2021. His knack for storytelling and an enigmatic stage presence immediately draws listeners into his strange narrative world. The musician has captivated audiences and critics alike with his gnarly composite of blues and folk, variety of idiosyncratic techniques, drastic register shifts, and his off-kilter lyric sensibility masked with old-timey Western imagery, the Austin native is truly a one-man-band of epic sonic proportions. This episode features recordings from Shakey Grave's 2022 performance at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/29179643

Lake Street Dive 12/13/2023

Lake Street Dive Since forming in 2004, Lake Street Dive have matched their sophisticated musicianship with a fearless refusal to limit their sound. As shown on their most recent album, 2021’s critically acclaimed Obviously, the Boston-bred band also possess a keen talent for combining socio-political commentary with immediately catchy pop gems. Over the years, they’ve captivated massive audiences at such esteemed festivals as Newport Folk Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and Toronto Jazz Festival, in addition to headlining tours all across the globe and sharing stages with acts like Brandi Carlile and Sheryl Crow. And through their fierce commitment to constantly elevating their artistry, Lake Street Dive have ultimately emerged as one of the most compelling voices in alternative music today, both reliably sublime and thrillingly unpredictable. With their current lineup comprised of founding members Rachael Price (vocals), Bridget Kearney (bass), and Michael Calabrese (drums)—as well as keyboardist/vocalist Akie Bermiss and touring guitarist James Cornelison—Lake Street Dive continue to create joyously soulful rock & roll with equal parts ingenuity, intelligence, and irresistible abandon. In recent years, Lake Street Dive have brought even more boldness to their kaleidoscopic sound while deliberately expanding their songcraft. To that end, Obviously finds the band examining such complex matters as gender inequality (on “Being a Woman”) and the monumental challenges faced by younger generations (on “Making Do”), shaping each track with a profound intentionality and ineffable mastery of melody and groove—a process Price refers to as “putting these messages into three and a half minute snippets, dropping whatever truth we can and hoping it’s the type of thing that people want to ruminate on.” Made with producer Mike Elizondo (Fiona Apple, Mary J. Blige), the result is an endlessly illuminating body of work that’s earned praise from the likes of Rolling Stone (who noted that “at a moment when pop strives for lo-fi, solitary-world intimacy, the jazz-pop whatever band refuses to think small”). This episode features recordings from Lake Street Dive's 2022 performance at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/29065148

Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver 12/06/2023

Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver Since 2002, the combined talents of Jim Curry and his band have brought John Denver's Music back to thousands upon thousands of people. As a life-long fan, Curry has dedicated himself to continuing John Denver’s legacy of songs and his message of love and caring for our planet to future generations. Take Me Home: The Music of John Denver is the ultimate tribute experience. Curry's heartfelt delivery envelops the crowd as multi-platinum hits such as "Rocky Mountain High," "Annie's Song" and "Country Roads'' fill the atmosphere. Superimposed with multi- media images of wildlife photos and videos, this show truly fills up your senses. Jim Curry has emerged as the top performer of John Denver's music today, often performing with Denver’s former band members, Jim Curry's tribute is the first and only full-length John Denver tribute to headline in Las Vegas and is celebrated nationally and internationally. This episode features recordings from Jim Curry's 2022 performance under the tent. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28964408

Tanya Tucker and Molly & The Danger Band 12/01/2023

Tanya Tucker and Molly & The Danger Band Edgy. Classic. Country. A defining voice of music and a modern-day legend, GRAMMY award winner, Tanya Tucker is known for some of country music’s biggest hits such as" "Soon," "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane," "It's a Little Too Late," "Trouble," "Texas (When I Die)," "If It Don't Come Easy" and "Strong Enough To Bend," Tanya has cemented herself as one the most admired and influential performers in county music. Since the auspicious start of her career at the age of 13, when released the classic county hit, "Delta Dawn," in 1972, Tucker has amassed 23 Top 40 albums, 56 Top 40 singles, 10 No. 1 songs on the Billboard country charts, numerous accolades including two CMA's, two ACM's, three CMT awards, and in 2020 she won her first two GRAMMY Awards for Best Country Album. Molly & The Danger Band started in 2006 when Molly Otis crawled onto a three foot wide ledge, hovering eight feet above a glass top bar at the Pavilion in downtown Hayward WI. You probably had heard or seen Molly Otis as the front person for Warner recording artists Molly and the Heymakers. She is a powerful vocalist and plays multiple instruments including fiddle, mandolin and guitar. Randy Wydra sings, lays down the bass lines, adds acoustic guitar and even plays drums with his feet. You could call them a rock/country/jazz/bluegrass band, but they are really an Americana band. The blending of different American roots music creates a unique musical cocktail, with a twist of Irish. From classic covers, traditional and original music, no matter what you call it, you're bound to have a good time. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28858033

Lil' Mike & Funny Bone 11/22/2023

Lil' Mike & Funny Bone Oklahoma City brothers Lil' Mike and Funny Bone, together known as Mike Bone, travel the world as motivational speakers, dancers, and rappers. Though both brothers stand a little over 4 feet tall, what they lack in height they more than make up for with their talent and determination. Through their powerful & inspiring music the Pawnee nation brothers strive to be positive influences for youth, promoting that a positive attitude and hard work can make dreams come true, but getting to that point hasn't been easy. From homelessness to gang violence, to "size-ist" discrimination, the brothers have hustled and flowed their way from nothing to something. The brothers spent years making the rounds at clubs, casino's, arena's, and private parties as they developed their skills not just as rappers but as performance artists & motivational speakers. Through their years of hustling, they've produced all their music independently, got their songs on radio stations around the world, opened for internationally renowned artists, and have left their mark on popular culture with their unforgettable television appearances on programs such as America's Got Talent and their recurring roles on Hulu's hit series Reservation Dogs. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28765968

Warren Nelson & Friends 11/16/2023

Warren Nelson & Friends Warren Nelson began his entertainment career playing folk music with various groups he had formed in his hometown of Fairmont, MN in the early 1960's. His first professional experience came when his my group Nellie’s Folk played a 10-week stand in the Burning Hills Amphitheater in Medora, ND. In 1968, as they became more and more successful the group's name was changed to The 10th Story Window. The folk group performed pop tunes of the day as well as original songs written by Nelson, and for the next few years tour extensively across the national which included opening for acts like the Ike and Tina Turner Revue and Wayne Cochran and the CC Riders. After moving to Bayfield County, WI in 1980, Nelson performed across the Northland as a member of the Lost Nation String Band. After founding Big Top Chautauqua in 1986, Warren performed as a founding member of the Blue Canvas Orchestra, and his original productions co-created with Betty Ferris were beloved by fans and are still performed at the tent every summer season. Tune in as Warren Nelson and his musical friends, as they celebrate the release of his new book SHOWTIME! Autobiography of a Songster, with a concert of his songs from his 55 years as a professional entertainer/songwriter and creator of musicals. Warren Nelson is joined by Blue Canvas Orchestra musicians Ed Willet, Otis McLennon, Randy Sabien, Jack Gunderson, Severin Behnen with special guests Ron Lundquist, Rex Loker, Petra Marquart, and Dave Nordby, original members of his group The 10th Story Window. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28681013

Cloud Cult 11/09/2023

Cloud Cult Minnesota’s Cloud Cult has a rich eleven-album history of bucking the mainstream music industry in favor of independently releasing music via their environmentally conscious record label Earthology Records. Hailed as one of the Top 10 Green Bands by Rolling Stone, the band’s philosophical lyrics and alternative-orchestral-folk-rock sound has been lauded by critics as "insane genius" (Pitchfork) and "an invocation of the lifeforce" (New York Times). Cloud Cult began as Craig Minowa's solo studio project after the unexpected loss of his son and has grown to the present day with an evolving lineup of incredible musicians. Known for incorporating live painting into their concerts, Cloud Cult are pioneers of multimedia artistry, most recently highlighted with the feature film release of The Seeker – starring Josh Radnor & Alex McKenna – which accompanied the band’s 2016 album, landed the group on Entertainment Weekly’s Must List, and garnered prestigious awards on the indie film festival circuit. This episode features recordings from Cloud Cult's 2022 performance at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28562867

The Music of Riverpants 11/01/2023

The Music of Riverpants After more than a decade, audiences "fishing" for a good time and wanting to "reel" with "lunker" laughs, celebrated the return of one of Big Top Chautauqua's most beloved original productions. In the summer of 2022, Big Top's famed house-band the Blue Canvas Orchestra delighted audiences in the triumphant revival of Riverpants, the musical comedy revue written by Warren Nelson. Having originally debuted during the summer of 2003, this knee slappin' musical is full of hearty fishing songs, mirthful interludes, energetic musical numbers and classic bits & skits. Warren Nelson's Anglin’ Wayne guided the audience on his top fishing tips & trips, Jack Gunderson, Liz Woodworth, & Tom Mitchell shined as Midwest Folk characters Ole Lena, and Sven, and Ed Willet, Severin Behnen, Phil Anich, Otis McLennon, Betty Ferris, Randy Sabien, and Billy Knoblauch were on hand for additional hijinks and to provide the driving music behind the production. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28490312

Heavy Gus and Sasha Mercedes 10/25/2023

Heavy Gus and Sasha Mercedes Born of the stark beauty and bittersweet desolation of the high desert, California trio Heavy Gus blurs the lines between grungy garage band fare, hazy surf, and dreamy indie rock on their captivating full-length debut, Notions. Bristling with live-wire electricity, the collection is lean and spare, fueled by distorted guitars and a driving rhythm section, and the performances are loose and organic to match, captured spontaneously in the moment with little room for overthinking or second-guessing. While all three bandmates come to Heavy Gus from very different worlds—Ulvang from The Lumineers, drummer Ryan Dobrowski from Blind Pilot, and singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Dorota Szuta from an unlikely combination of marine science and music—they fit together like puzzle pieces here, bound by the kind of love and trust that can only grow from years of deep kinship. The result is a record all about distance and connection from a band built on intimacy and personal chemistry, a mesmerizing debut that calls to mind everything from Meat Puppets and The Breeders to Yo La Tengo and Acetone in its artful balance of hope and fatalism, loneliness and desire, strength and vulnerability. Originally hailing from the rugged shores of Lake Superior, Sasha Mercedes writes image-provoking songs and delivers them with passion and conviction. Her powerful voice turns heads, as she beats on her guitar, brow furrowed and snarling! Mercedes has released five Americana solo albums, and though there will always be a soft spot in her heart for singer-songwriter stylings, Mercedes hasn't been tethered to any genre. She was the front-woman for Twin Cities-based rock band, Hot Pink Hangover, as well as the hook writer and fellow performer in Minneapolis hip hop trio, Channeling Grey. She has traveled the world making music and drawing inspiration out of every experience, which is evident in the lyrics of her brilliantly crafted compositions. She has shared the stage with TLC, Badflower, Dar Williams, Don Mclean, Tracy Bonham, Guy Davis, Pete Seeger, and others. She may seem hard on the outside, but Mercedes has always believed that rugged shores can polish even the roughest of stones. This episode features recordings from both artists 2022 performances at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28422797

The Greatest Piano Men 10/19/2023

The Greatest Piano Men Created and produced by Donnie Kehr, best known for his originated roles in Broadway's Jersey Boys and Billy Elliot, The Greatest Piano Men is an electrifying production that celebrates the world’s greatest piano icons and showmen in music history - from the 50s and 60s hits of Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Ray Charles to the 70s and 80s hits of Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Billy Joel - and even the legendary works of Beethoven and Liberace. The Greatest Piano Men features Pete Peterkin - a singer, actor, dancer, comic, master impressionist, and multi-instrumentalist, best known for his appearance on Season 4 of “America’s Got Talent,” Bill Conners - the gold standard when it comes to impersonating Sir Elton John, perfectly captures the voice, mannerisms, and fabulous showmanship of the rock icon, as well as David K. Maiocco - award-winning musical director, pianist, and actor, considered one of the most well recognized Liberace tribute artists. This electrifying music celebration features a rockin’ 8-piece band, sensational back-up vocalists, and captivating multimedia storytelling, as The Greatest Piano Men bring along 25 hit songs including, “Good Golly Miss Molly,” “Superstition,” “I’m Still Standing,” “Hit the Road Jack,” “New York State of Mind,” and many more! This episode features recordings from The Greatest Piano Men's 2022 performance at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28371578

Larry McCray and Phil Anich & Friends 10/14/2023

Larry McCray and Phil Anich & Friends For more than 30 years, rust belt blues shouter and guitar slinger Larry McCray's greatness has been hiding in plain sight. A native of Magnolia Arkansas, Larry McCray discovered his love of music at a young age through his sister Clara, who introduced him to the guitar and the transformative music of Blues legends like B.B. King. After moving to Michigan at 12, he spent his teen years harnessing his guitar skills, adding rock riffs to the traditional blues style he loved. After high school, he began playing the local circuit, and by the late 80's he attracted the notice of Virgin Records and was signed as the inaugural artist to their blues label Point Blank Records. In 1990, McCray released his critically acclaimed debut album, aptly named — Ambition. A stunning debut, the record was a convincing hybrid of blues, rock, and soul, with McCray combining the interrelated idioms in sizzling fashion. Throughout the 1990's, he continued to help define blues rock, releasing several albums including 1993's Delta Hurricane, and 1998's Born to Play the Blues. After starting his own record label, Magnolia Records, the bluesman remained active throughout the 2000's, releasing 2001's Believe It and Blues Is My Business, 2006's Live on Interstate 75, and his self-titled album "Larry McCray" in 2007. He toured extensively, playing with blues greats like B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, Keb' Mo and Joe Bonamassa, and worked with rock legends like the Allman Brothers, Levon Helm, Chris Robinson, Dickie Betts and countless others. Somewhere along the way, though, his path to the top of the blues world was derailed. During the recording process of his latest release, McCray felt "reborn" as he developed a newfound drive and passions for his career. In 2021, McCray released his first original material in nearly 15 years, "Blues Without You," an album that showcases his power as an instrumentalist and a vocalist. The 12-track record, produced by Joe Bonamassa's Keeping the Blues Alive label, garnered McCray even more critical acclaim with Blues Rock Reviews calling it "the record of a lifetime and the best project of his career." Born and raised on the shores of Lake Superior, Phil Anich served as Big Top Chautauqua's Operations Manager for nearly 30 years. A performer for most of his life, in the 1980's along with other local artists he began singing in shows written by Warren Nelson & Betty Ferris about the history of the local Lake Superior region. This group would go on to become Big Top's famed house band the Blue Canvas Orchestra. Every summer since Big Top's founding in 1986, the Blue Canvas Orchestra have continued to write and perform in original shows that have often celebrated the history, environment, and cultures of the local region. Since then, Phil Anich has continued to perform in shows at Big Top including Riding The Wind, Big Top Does The Beatles, Wild Woods & Waters, and most recently In Spite of Ourselves: The Music of John Prine & Nanci Griffith. During the 2022 summer season, Phil Anich performed under the tent with Dale Engquist, Brian Russ, and Mason Pavel, as Phil Anich & Friends opened for legendary country swing band Asleep At The Wheel. This episode features recordings from each artists' August 2022 performances at Big Top Chautauqua. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28313336

In Spite of Ourselves: The Music of John Prine & Nanci Griffith 10/06/2023

In Spite of Ourselves: The Music of John Prine & Nanci Griffith Led by Molly Otis & Ed Willett, the Blue Canvas Orchestra take on the work of John Prine and Nanci Griffith in this Big Top original show. John Prine and Nanci Griffith were both humble masters of the story. They dug deep into the places where we were afraid to go. Emotional depth, keen observations and wry humor brought their music to life and hit an emotional bone. These are the writers who gave us “Angel from Montgomery,” “Sam Stone,” “Love at the Five & Dime,” “Trouble in These Fields, and many more. It’s the Blue Canvas Orchestra's great honor to present a tribute to our lost songsmiths. This episode features Blue Canvas Orchestra members Ed Willett, Molly Otis, Severin Behnen, Phil Anich, Tom Mitchell, Jack Gunderson, Billy Knoblauch, Danielle Diamond, Betty Ferris, and Scott Kirby. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28242302

Joyann Parker: The Music of Patsy Cline 09/28/2023

Joyann Parker: The Music of Patsy Cline 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. This episode features recordings for Joyann Parker's 2022 performance under the tent. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28170836

Madison Cunningham and The Foxgloves 09/21/2023

Madison Cunningham and The Foxgloves Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Madison Cunningham takes a literate, harmonically nuanced approach to folk and pop music. She first grabbed attention with the release of her debut EP, Love, Lose, Remember in 2017. Expanding upon her textured, sometimes jazz-inflected indie folk, her first full-length, Who Are You Now, arrived in 2019 and her sophomore album, 2022’s Revolver earned Cunningham her first Grammy award for Best Folk Album. Rolling Stone describes Cunningham’s sound as “a new spin on West Coast folk-rock, with classical tendencies, electric guitars, jazz-school chord changes and alt-rock strut all living beneath the same roof.” Her unique melodies, elastic voice, honest storytelling, and deft approach to the electric guitar, quickly earned her a dedicated fan base and saw her open shows for notable artists like Harry Styles, Punch Brothers, and Lake Street Dive. The Foxgloves are an all-female Americana band from the Twin Cities featuring Maura Dunst (Vocals/Fiddles/Mandolin), Liz DeYoe (Guitar), Steph Snow (Vocals/Ukulele/Banjo), Nikki Lemire (Vocals/Harp), Sara Tinklenberg (Vocals/Percussion), and Nyssa Krause (Bass). With songs you won’t be able to stop humming. Their engaging presence, rich instrumentation, compelling storytelling songwriting, four-part harmonies, and creatively reimagined covers render them a force to be reckoned with. This powerful band is making moves you’ll want to witness. A little bit of country, a little bit of folk, a little bit of classical, and a whole lot of heart — your toes will tap of their own accord. This episode features recordings from The Foxgloves’ July 2022 performance and Madison Cunningham’s August 2022 performance under the tent. First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio 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. In the program's nearly 30-year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra. Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. EPISODE CREDITSMichael Perry - Host Phillip Anich - Announcer Jaime Hansen - Engineer Gina Nagro - Marketing Support FOLLOW BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA FOLLOW MICHAEL PERRY 2023 TENT SHOW RADIO SPONSORSAshland Area Chamber of Commerce - Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau - Bayfield County Tourism - The Bayfield Inn - Cable Area Chamber of Commerce - Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce - SPECIAL THANKSWisconsin Public Radio - /episode/index/show/tentshowradio/id/28096238

Tent Show Radio

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