In the first half of the episode, we talk with Eli Smith of the Down HillStrugglers about their recent release “Old Juniper,” traditional songs versus“covers,” and taking traditional songs and putting new words to them. We visitabout what “Old Time” music is and how Eli and the band got involved with it asfolks who grew up in New York. We also talk about what the term “Americana” means to him.

The Down Hill Strugglers are:Walker Shepard - fiddle, banjo, guitar, harmonica, voiceJackson Lynch - fiddle, banjo, guitar, voiceEli Smith - banjo, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, Jews harp, pump organ, voice

The band was co-founded by John Cohen (1932-2019)

Then we talk with Vanessa Collier about her latest release “Do it My Own Way,” and its unintentional women-centric focus. We visit with her about herdecision to become a fulltime musician (over playing basketball or cooking!) We also got to hear more about her special song “Warrior” written for her mom.

Check them out here:

Down Hill Strugglers & Eli:

• Website: downhillstrugglers.com
• Facebook: The Down Hill Strugglers
• Instagram: downhillstrugglers
• Eli—eli_smith_etc

Vanessa Collier:

• Website: Vannessacolliermusic.com
• Instagram: V_ness_sax
• Facebook: Vanessa Collier
• Youtube: Vannessacollier33

This episode we talk with the ethereal Bailey Bigger about her new album "Resurrection Fern" and how she has grown and changed since her last album was released.

Resurrection Fern explores vulnerability, nature, and growth, all delivered through Bigger’s distinctive lens. Known for her enchanting melodies and impeccable lyricism, Bigger dives deep into themes of renewal, fragility, and the resilience found in the human spirit. Each track feels like a conversation with an old friend, guiding listeners through moments of self-discovery and connection. As a storyteller, she paints pictures that are as vivid as they are introspective, drawing on personal experiences and weaving them into universal truths. Her poetic approach to music, combined with a rich vocal presence, marks her as one of the most exciting new voices in today’s music landscape.

With this release, Bigger continues to prove why she’s being hailed as a fresh voice for her generation. Her ability to channel complex emotions into beautifully simple yet profound songs sets her apart, and Resurrection Fern is a testament to her growth as an artist and storyteller.

The 24 year old singer/songwriter/instrumentalist has collected back to back nominations at the Arkansas Country Music Awards, been named Songwriter of the Year in Memphis, won Audience-Favorite music video at Indie Film Fest, and has had multiple songs featured on TrueSouth on SEC Television. Bigger has traveled the country over the last four years, enchanting audiences with her siren song and classic American songwriting. She has shared stages and festival lineups with Sierra Ferrell, The Local Honeys, The Avett Brothers, and toured alongside Joe Purdy and Trampled by Turtles. Bailey’s voice has graced the stages of Red Rocks Amphitheater, The Bluebird Cafe, Georgia Theater, and many festivals including FloydFest, Americanafest, and Memphis in May.

Much inspired by her own Celtic heritage, folklore of the world surrounding her, and connection to the natural world, Bailey’s new record, “Resurrection Fern,” (releasing October 25th) takes the listener on a journey through the four seasons, and the cycles of death that we, and the earth, face every year. Leaning into the mystery and lore of the unknown, human emotions, and the wild nature within all of us, “Resurrection Fern,” captures the magic that Bailey found within her years of tuning in deeper with the natural cycles, and the primal knowledge within.

Check her out here:

• Website: Baileybigger.com
• Facebook: Bailey Bigger Music
• Instagram: Bailey Bigger
• TikTok: @coyotecreature

We talk with Grayson about his album “Heartbreak, Misery, and Death” out TODAY 10/25/26 (timely, as he dedicates it to his father, who's birthday is 10/26/24). Grayson has been playing these songs his whole life and pays homage to them on this deep and dark album. He talks with us about simplicity and being honest, with the reminder that some of the greatestsongs in the world are only 2 minutes long, but feel like a novel.

Then we visit with Jess about her new project, written and recorded in her home with other women artists in a 5-day period. This album is forthcoming, but Jess noted that she needed to go to a solitary place to write these personal, touching songs. As a very in-demand co-writer it was a great conversation picking Jess’s brain.

Check them out here:

Grayson Capps:

• Website: graysoncapps.com
• Facebook: graysoncapps
• IG: @graysoncapps
• Tik Tok: graysoncapps_official

Jess Nolan:

• Website: jessnolanmusic.com
• Facebook: Jess Nolan
• IG: Iamjessnolan
• YouTube: Iamjessnolan

Ashtyn Barbaree is an internationally touring singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Fayetteville, Arkansas, noted for her distinctive style of ethereal vocals and melodies, heartfeltsongwriting, and passionate performances. Barbaree’s dedication to creating authentic, emotionally resonant music continues to push boundaries and enchant audiences. Her latest project, Sent Through the Ceiling, is set for independent release FRIDAY, October 25th!

This collection of songs explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the bittersweetness of life. Drawing inspiration from the vast landscapes of the Ozarks and personal experiences, Barbaree weaves narratives of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams. The album features atmospheric arrangements that reflect the spirit of Americana music through the eyes of anArkansan with a rich musical palette that includes elements of folk, rock, pop,and country.

Check her out here:

• Website: ashtynbarbaree.com
• Facebook: Ashtyn Barbaree
• IG: @missashtyn
• You Tube:ashtynbarbaree

The sisters are thrilled to talk with multi-grammy nominee Blessing Offor about Co-writes and publishing deals and what it means to be the 'genre of humanity' in this episode. Blessing is one of the kindest and most talented humans out there!

Blessing Offor speaks to relatable experiences of struggle, triumph, life, and love from a distinctive perspective as a Nigerian-born, Connecticut-raised, and Nashville-based singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Exhibiting virtuosic piano ability, honest songwriting, and a showstopping voice, his musical fluency and creative foresight are unmatched only more inspiring by his journey.

With five older siblings, Blessing left Nigeria at just six-years-old to live with his uncle in Connecticut. Glaucoma left him blind in one eye, and mom and dad felt he might find better medical care in the United States. He lost sight in the other eye at ten-years-old due to a water pistol accident. Nevertheless, Blessing dove into music. He devoured classics by Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Commodores and Barry White.

From a young age, Blessing had the natural ability to learn music by ear, developing incredible skill while quickly building his musical index.

Now, this international upbringing, unbelievable journey, quiet grind, and confluence of styles define his first full-length album, "My Tribe," that brings together soul, pop, R&B, and African styles in service of a universal sound--which he fittingly dubs "the genre of humanity."

Listen to Blessing's new single "All Over the World" right here on the show and wherever you stream music and check him out here:

• Website: Blessingoffor.com
• IG: @blessingoffor
• Facebook: Blessing Offor
• You Tube: Blessing Offor
• X: @Blessingoffor

New Podcast alert!!! https:sistersinsong.callcast.co

The sisters had the great pleasure of talking with William Lee Golden of Oakridge Boys fame and Australian Singer Songwriter Danni Stefanetti about their beautiful new collaboration “I’veGot My Heart on You” available everywhere!

Oak Ridge Boy William Lee Golden debuts as a songwriter at 85 years old with “I’ve Got My Heart on You,” a heartfelt duet featuring rising star Danni Stefanetti. Inspired by his son Solomon’s words during his touring days, this song blends Golden’s legendary status with Stefanetti’s fresh talent.

Golden, a Country and Gospel Hall of Famer with 5 Grammys, brings decades of experience to his first self-penned track. Stefanetti, an award-winning artist, adds her virtuoso guitar skills and contemporary flair. This collaboration offers a poignant tribute to family bonds. With Golden’s rich baritone and Stefanetti’s emotive vocals, “I’ve Got My Heart on You” promises to resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike, showcasing the timeless power of country music toconnect generations.

William Lee Golden has long been a Renaissance man. An accomplished painter, photographer, entertainer, and member of both the Country and Gospel Music Halls of Fame, the longtime Oak Ridge Boy has enjoyed a long, very successful career. Never content to rest on his laurels, at 85, he’s always stretching his creative horizons and does so yet again as the solosongwriter on his latest release “I Got My Heart on You.”

For Stefanetti, winner of the 2023 Josie Award for Female Vocalist, getting to work with one of her musical heroes was a dream come true.

“He’s so easy to work with and it’s a bit surreal because I remember sitting backstage at the Opry watching the Oak Ridge Boys doing ‘American Made’ on my first trip to Nashville,” she says with a smile. “Working with him was a real treat and this song is so special. The melody just really hit me the first time I heard it because it is really beautiful and really touching.”

Though written for his son, Stefanetti feels “I Got My Heart on You” will have universal appeal. “It could be a love song as well. It could be about a family member. It could even be something that William could dedicate to Rusty,” she says referring to Golden’s eldest son, who died of a heart attack on July 1, 2024. “The song encompasses all kind of relationships. It’s got such a universal appeal. I don’t think William realized that when he wrote it, but you hear it different every time you listen to it.”

Check them out here:

• William Lee Golden:
• Website: williamleegolden.com
• FB: William Lee Golden
• IG: William_Lee_Golden

Danni Stefanetti:

• Website: Dannistefanetti.com
• FB: Danni Stefanetti
• IG: Dannistefanetti
• TikTok: Dannistefanettiofficial

The sisters are sooooooo excitedthat we got to talk to Bowen Young! We chatted with this divine duo about allthings music, like Brandon deciding to move to Nashville and “just give it awhirl,” and Clare’s advice to “lean into the weird” because we’re all uniqueand special.

Nashville-based duo BOWEN * YOUNG embarks on a musical journey with their debut

album, Us, a melodic tapestry woven by the harmonious souls of Clare Bowen and

Brandon Robert Young. Produced by acclaimed Americana songwriter/producer Sean

McConnell, their 10-track revelation is slated for a global release on May 3rd via

Snakefarm/PIAS.

Hailing from rural Australia, Clare, and Connecticut native Brandon infuse 'Us' with

haunting, ethereal songs that delve into the depths of ferocious love, heartbreaking loss,

and unwavering hope. Their musical collaboration, aptly named "Cinematic Americana,"

is a testament to the emotive songwriting, honest lyrics, and hypnotic harmonies that

encapsulate their special bond.

In the luminous shadow of their individual backgrounds, Clare, famed for her role as

Scarlett O'Connor in 'Nashville,' and Brandon, a seasoned musician touring with legends

like John Hiatt, share a common North Star—sweeping emotion, intimate moments, and

bombastic sound.

The couple's creative synergy found its missing piece in Sean McConnell. The revelation

struck while composing 'Water To Wine,' a song that seamlessly captures the essence

of their profound connection. Yet, life's shadows emerged in the form of 'Dangerous

Love,' a single born from a harrowing experience when an assailant invaded their home.

Undeterred, Clare and Brandon transformed adversity into art, choosing joy over fear.

Entering the studio with McConnell and producer Roger Alan Nichols, they discovered

the sweet spot of true emotion, using their crackling energy as the cornerstone. From

the stripped-back 'Halo' to the unpolished honesty of 'To The Bone,' each track on 'Us'

resonates with the authenticity of their musical journey.

Clare's arrival in Music City in 2012 marked the beginning of a musical voyage with

luminaries like Vince Gill and the Zac Brown Band. A pediatric cancer survivor, her life

story adds a poignant layer to their narrative, emphasizing the resilience to embrace

both light and dark.

Brandon's journey, beginning in 2000, unfolds with nights spent filling composition

books with melodies in Nashville. His collaborations with John Hiatt and contributions

to projects such as 'Johnny Cash Forever Words' showcase the breadth of his musical

prowess, heard in shows like 'Shameless'.

Fate orchestrated their union in 2013, when Brandon became Clare's last-minute duet

partner. Their unique chemistry blossomed into love, culminating in a magical proposal

at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium and a union officiated by John Carter Cash in 2017.

The couple's musical saga continues to resonate globally such as sharing the stage

with Billy Joel at BST/Hyde Park last year, a headlining US tour, and an astounding 838%

growth on Spotify. The spotlight has embraced them, and the world eagerly awaits the

May 3rd release of 'Us.'

As the pages turn to 2024, the duo anticipates their return to the UK for the Highways

Festival at The Royal Albert Hall on May 17th & 18th among other exciting opportunities.

The symphony of BOWEN * YOUNG continues an enchanting tale of love, resilience, and

a harmonious odyssey through the corridors of life and art.

Check them out here:

Website: Bowenyoung.com

FB: Bowen Young

IG: Bowenyoungofficial Clare: clarembee Brandon: brandonrobertyoung

TikTok: Bowenyoungofficial

YouTube: Bowenyoungofficial

Bandcamp: Bowen Young

Check out this episode where we talk the importance of clean water with John Bolten of the band Geraldine they get ready to serve as the houseband for the Annapolis Baygrass festival kicking off THISWEEKEND September 21-22, 2024. We take a deep dive (pun intended)into comparingpunk rock and old time music and saying a lot with a little.

Geraldine’s mantra is ‘Good Time Old Time’. They are a country-leaning string band bringingsongwriting to the forefront, while blending elements of old time, American folk, bluegrass, and alternative country in a distinctive, enthusiastic sound. As stewards of Appalachian motifs in a modern framework, they bring banjo, mandolin, guitar, fiddle, and Appalachian flat foot dancing to the front of the stage, accented with lush four-part harmonies, in a free-wheeling repertoire of both rare and wonderful gems from the past and original songs.

" The perfect blend of grit, drive, originality, and fun – Baltimore’s Geraldine embodies all that’s good in a modern stringband. In studio and on-stage, the quartet dips and dives through raucous fiddle tunes and soulful songs to create a fresh sonic landscape that knows no bounds. Anchored by John Bolten’s creative songwriting, the spotlight is shared evenly across their dynamic lineup featuring Jonathan Vocke on banjo, Josh Anderson on fiddle, and Jocelyn Haversat on feet and upright bass. In a modern roots music landscape that can be overly polished and predictable, Geraldine is as genuine as it gets and you’ll never quite know where they’re going next.” -- Brad Kolodner, Folk Alley, Bluegrass Country Radio

Check the band out here:

Website: Geraldineband.com

IG: thegeraldineband

FB: Geraldine

YouTube: @geraldineband

And check out the festival here: baygrass.festival.com