Browsing: Interview

Corritore continues to honor his Chicago roots and the sacred traditions of the blues, with a relentless passion for preserving its history and fostering collaborations. From his early days jamming with legends to his thriving Rhythm Room in Phoenix, Corritore’s mission is clear: “It’s hard to understand the character of the blues, without knowing some of the characters of the blues.”

With 30 albums and countless musical memories, his dedication to the blues legacy and community remains as strong as ever.

In this edition of Gestures, a column reflecting on women’s contributions to the musical arts, we talk to Shelby Means and Hayley Skreens.

Solidarity takes center stage as Shelby and Hayley reflect on the power of collaboration in bluegrass. Through their shared experiences of co-writing, supporting one another’s projects, and forging meaningful connections, they’re helping to shape a bluegrass community where creativity and support thrive.

Now a retired special education teacher and still rocking with his band, the Iron City Houserockers, Grushecky discusses his path through music, his collaborations with legends like Steve Cropper and Mick Ronson, and his commitment to never quitting the guitar. With new albums out and his son Johnny joining the band, Joe remains passionate about playing, proving that the best musicians keep evolving with age.

Iconic folk/blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist Chris Smither discusses his evolving approach to mortality, the organic songwriting process, and pivotal moments like his serendipitous debut at Club 47 in 1966. Now at 80, with a new album ‘All About The Bones,’ he continues to create poignant music, confronting life’s fleeting nature with grace, while still sounding as fresh as ever.

Experience an exclusive first listen to ‘Waiting For The Moon,’ the debut solo album from Captain’s Audio Project — the creative vision of veteran Portland-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist James Cook. In this interview, James delves into the inspiration behind his songs, which weave together themes of nature, love, and personal stories, all wrapped in the distinct sound of Captain’s Audio Project.

Led by Steve Eagon, the band’s chemistry and focus on both musicianship and camaraderie have set them up for their next big step—releasing a sophomore album that builds on their newfound confidence and collaborative spirit.

After winning the International Blues Challenge, Piper & The Hard Times rose from Nashville’s local scene to the global stage. Bandleader Steve Eagon shares the band’s story, from their humble beginnings to the release of their debut album ‘Revelation,’ which topped the Billboard Blues Chart. With powerful original music and a dedication to spreading joy, Steve reflects on their rapid success and the momentum driving their nonstop tour.

Paul Thorn’s new album ‘Life is Just a Vapor’ (out February 21 via Thirty Tigers) explores life’s fleeting nature, inspired by a scripture from James 4:14. Raised as the son of a Pentecostal preacher, Thorn contemplates life’s transience, urging listeners to live fully and enjoy the present.

Songs like “Tough Times Don’t Last” encourage resilience, while “Geraldine and Ricky” offers a tongue-in-cheek commentary on toxic relationships. Thorn’s humor and empathy shine through his music, making it both relatable and uplifting.

Kid Ramos on his forthcoming Nola Blue Records album ‘Strange Things Happening’ does gospel the way Metallica does rock: intense, hard-driving and with a dedication that is nothing less than obsessive.

Lilli Lewis, singer-songwriter, composer, and visionary behind Black American Music Summit invites us into the heart of her latest endeavor, reshaping the narrative around Black American music and its place within the wider cultural conversation. Now, she’s expanding her impact through children’s literature.