Category Archives: Blues

Big Blue Diamonds

There’s hope in music. And if we need something to carry us forward over the coming years it’s hope. So we’ll take all we can get with all the music we can get. This week’s Deeper Roots show takes us through a blend of genres, making a free form journey across the landscape of America’s music from the past century. We’ll bring you Cannonball Adderley right alongside Hank Thompson and The Neville Brothers, The Doors, Patsy Cline and Mink Deville to start. Dave Stroud’s done some scouring through those dusty digital archives for well- (and little-) known gems with stories and ballads. He’ll be taking you to where country meets soul, jazz meets boogie woogie and where there’s an unlikely fusion of reggae, folk, and zydeco. Topics include wedding days, jiggers of gin, honeydrippers, and the topic of Texas and some big blue diamonds. Tune in this week. Take your mind off the grifters and haters that have polluted the pond.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Elvis PresleyBurning LoveNippers 70's-Vol.1Amazon
2Clarence "Frogman" HenryLong Lost And WorriedAin't Got No Home: The Best Of Clarence "Frogman" HenryAmazon
3Mink DevilleA Train LadyThe Mink De Ville CollectionAmazon
4Major LanceUm, Um, Um, Um, Um, UmThe Very Best of Major LanceAmazon
5Linda LyndellWhat A ManSoul Sides: Volume OneAmazon
6Little Johnny TaylorBig Blue DiamondsCold Cold Heart – Where Country Meets Soul Volume 3Amazon
7Tex RitterBig Blue DiamondsFamous Country Music MakersAmazon
8Waylon JenningsDrinkin' and Dreamin'The Essential Waylon Jennings [2007] Disc 2Amazon
9The DoorsThe Wasp (Texas Radio And The Big Beat)L.A. Woman: 40th Anniversary Mixes [Bonus Tracks]Amazon
10Tex WilliamsI Got Texas In My SoulThe History Of Country & Western Music – Vol. 10Amazon
11Willie NelsonTexas In My SoulOne Hell Of A RideAmazon
12Patsy ClineGot A Lot Of Rhythm In My SoulVolume 3Amazon
13Pokey LaFargeEnd of My RopeRock Bottom RhapsodyAmazon
14O. C. SmithThe Son Of Hickory Holler TrampMore Dirty Laundry: The Soul Of Black CountryAmazon
15The EternalsBabalu's Wedding DayThe Doo Wop Box, Vol. 2 Disc 3Amazon
16Snooks EaglinMy Head Is SpinningComplete Imperial RecordingsAmazon
17Arthur AlexanderI Hang My Head And CryCold Cold Heart – Where Country Meets Soul Volume 3Amazon
18Jimmy LeeYou Ain't No Good For MeDirty Boogie:The Fortune Records StoryAmazon
19Andre WilliamsPardon Me (I've Got Someone To Kill)More Dirty Laundry: The Soul Of Black CountryAmazon
20Big Daddy WilsonI Got PlentyDeep in My SoulAmazon
21Ray CharlesMess AroundAtlantic Rock & RollAmazon
22Dr. JohnHoney DripperDefinitive Pop CollectionAmazon
23Varetta DillardMercy, Mr. PercyThe Lovin' BirdAmazon
24Mink DeVilleMazurkaLe Chat BleuAmazon
25BeauSoleil & Michael DoucetZydeco Gris GrisAbsolutely The Best Cajun & Zydeco [Disc 1]Amazon
26Rockin' DopsieZydeco Around The WorldAbsolutely The Best Cajun & Zydeco [Disc 1]Amazon
27The Neville BrothersSitting in LimboFiyo on the BayouAmazon
28Hank ThompsonScotch And SodaA Collection Of Drinking SongsAmazon
29Cannonball AdderleyMercy, Mercy, MercyRock Instrumental Classics Vol. 4: SoulAmazon
30Johnny Mercer And The Pied PipersMy Sugar Is So RefinedCapitol Records' From The Vaults, Volume 3 – Capitol Jumps – 1944-53Amazon
31Nina SimoneI Want A Little Sugar In My BowlArtist's Choice: Norah JonesAmazon
32The Righteous BrothersSomething's Got A Hold On MeThe Moonglow YearsAmazon

Rain Theme

Seven years after our community was ravaged by three different wildfires, we’re going to focus on the theme of rain in our show today. Call it a rain dance if you must but we’re hoping that not only will the weather give us one more year of respite from the flaming torrent of climate change-induced wildfires but also make it two years in a row with reservoir replenishment. So why not a theme that promotes rainy weather? We’ll go to every genre corner in the show today: gospel, jazz, country, rock ‘n roll, soul and rhythm & blues. Tune in for a themed collection this morning that includes the likes of Glenn Yarbrough, Percy Sledge, Leon Russell, Lonnie Johnson and Billy “The Kid” Emerson. There’s a whole lot more so join in and find out. A sunny September morning leads us to our rain dance…or whatever you call it.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Sons of the PioneersBlue Eyes Crying in the Rain (Remastered)Anthology: The Definitive Collection (Remastered)Amazon
2Buddy GuyFeels Like RainBuddy's Baddest: The Best of Buddy GuyAmazon
3Hugh LaurieDidn't It RainDidn't It Rain (Deluxe)Amazon
4Sons Of SouthDidn't It Rain ChildrenThe Best Of Nashboro GospelAmazon
5Lew ChildreIt Don't Do Nothing but Rain…I Listen to the Wind That Obliterates My TracesAmazon
6The Nitty Gritty Dirt BandBuy for Me the RainDirt, Silver & Gold Disc 1Amazon
7Sir Douglas QuintetThe Rains CameBest Of Sir Douglas QuintetAmazon
8Eddie RabbittI Love A Rainy NightSuperstars Of CountryAmazon
9Albert LeeRainbows All Over Your BluesThe Big E: A Salute to Steel Guitarist Buddy EmmonsAmazon
10Buddy HollyRaining in My HeartThe Definitive CollectionAmazon
11The CascadesRhythm of the RainTeen Ballads Disc 2Amazon
12Lonnie JohnsonPouring Down RainComplete Folkways RecordingsAmazon
13John Hammond, Jr.Little Rain FallingCountry BluesAmazon
14Billy "The Kid" EmersonWhen It Rains, It PoursLiving The Blues: Blues Classics 1955-1956Amazon
15Big MaybelleRain Down RainThe Complete OKeh Sessions 1952-'55Amazon
16Leon RussellA Hard Rain's A-Gonna FallLeon Russell And The Shelter People [Bonus Tracks]Amazon
17Irma ThomasIt's RainingTime Is on My Side: The Best of Irma Thomas, Vol. 1Amazon
18Irma ThomasI Think It's Going to Rain TodaySimply GrandAmazon
19Madeleine PeyrouxCalifornia RainHalf The Perfect WorldAmazon
20Billie HolidayCome Rain Or Come ShineBillie's BestAmazon
21Creedence Clearwater RevivalHave You Ever Seen The RainRock Steady 1971: Celebrating Starbucks 35th AnniversaryAmazon
22The MavericksHere Comes the RainMusic for All OccasionsAmazon
23The Serendipity SingersDon't Let The Rain Come Down (Crooked Little Man)My Music Original Masters Folk Rewind [Disc 2]Amazon
24Glenn YarbroughBaby the Rain Must FallPop Memories of the 60s: Vol. 4- Blue Velvet [Disc 1]Amazon
25Roy OrbisonLeaving Makes The Rain Come DownOne of the Lonely OnesAmazon
26The Everly BrothersCrying in the RainSingles / EP's /Radio / LiveAmazon
27Merle TravisRainy Day FeelingHot Pickin' [Disc 2]Amazon
28Grandpa JonesIt's Raining Here This Morning (Remake)Hillbilly Bop 'n' Boogie: King/Federal Roots of Rockabilly 1944 – 56Amazon
29The Birmingham SunlightsIt's Gonna RainFolk MastersAmazon
30Simon & GarfunkelFlowers Never Bend With The RainfallParsley, Sage, Rosemary And ThymeAmazon
31Percy SledgeI Wish It Would RainBlue NightAmazon
32Nick LoweRaining RainingNick's KnackAmazon

Also Rans 1956

The charts for the year 1956 were overtaken by Elvis. No question. There were a few others that illuminated the jukebox namely Fats Domino, Webb Pierce, Little Richard, and The Platters. Rock ‘n roll’s impact swept the floor with most burying some fairly incredible performances in it’s wake. Call it an avalanche. Call it a mudslide. Call it what you like. As I began to assemble a show looking at the top of the charts for the year, I found that starting at the bottom and working my way up was a revelation. Whether it was country, rhythm & blues, rock ‘n roll or pop…there were some delicious also-rans that I could not ignore so chose to ignore the Top 30 and focused today’s show on the so-called losers below the waterline of the Top 40. And what a joy it was! We’ll hear from some of them including Big Joe Turner, The Dells, LaVern Baker, Clyde McPhatter, Carl Smith and Kitty Wells in today’s show. I hope you’ll find some time, morning, noon or night, to listen in.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1The Ernie Freeman ComboJivin' Around, Part 1Blowing The Fuse: 1956Amazon
2Bo DiddleyPretty ThingBlowing The Fuse: 1956Amazon
3Chuck BerryToo Much Monkey BusinessJohnny B. Goode-His Complete 50's Chess RecordingsAmazon
4Big Joe TurnerThe Chicken and the HawkBig Joe RocksAmazon
5LaVern BakerI Can't Love You EnoughRock & RollAmazon
6Clyde McPhatterSeven DaysRock & RollAmazon
7Chuck WillisJuanitaI Remember Chuck Willis / The King Of The StrollAmazon
8Chuck WillisIt's Too LateBlowing The Fuse: 1956Amazon
9The CloversDevil or AngelDoo Wop Box Disc 2Amazon
10The DellsOh What A NiteThe Vee-Jay Story [Disc 1]Amazon
11The MoonglowsSee SawDancin' And Romancin' In The 50s And 60s [Disc 1]Amazon
12Little Willie JohnHome At LastFever: The Best Of Little Willie JohnAmazon
13Ray CharlesLonely AvenueRay Charles – 93 Essential TracksAmazon
14Otis Williams & His CharmsIvory TowerRhythm & Blues 1952-1959 – Music Sampler, Vol. 2Amazon
15The Five KeysOut Of Sight, Out Of MindDoo Wop Vocal Group GreatsAmazon
16The G-ClefsKa-Ding DongGems from the Columbia Vaults, Pt. 1Amazon
17Clarence "Frogman" HenryAin't Got No HomeChess New Orleans [Disc 2]Amazon
18Sil AustinSlow WalkGreat Instrumental Hits Of The 50s-80s (10 Songs)Amazon
19Hugo Winterhalter And His Orchestra With Eddie HeywoodCanadian SunsetMagic Moments: Best Of 50's Pop (Disc 2)Amazon
20June Carter CashJuke Box BluesKeep on the Sunny Side: Her Life in Music Disc 1Amazon
21Eddy ArnoldYou Don't Know MeWarped 5543 – Eddy Arnold – 1955Amazon
22Webb PierceTeenage BoogieAll Hits! [Disc 2]Amazon
23Johnny Horton093-Honky Tonk ManColumbia Records' 125th Anniv.Amazon
24The Louvin BrothersCash On The BarrelheadCapitol Country Music ClassicsAmazon
25Kitty WellsThe Lonely Side of TownThe Complete Country HitsAmazon
26Sonny JamesThe Cat Came BackSinglesAmazon
27Marty RobbinsI Can't Quit (I've Gone Too Far)The Essential Marty Robbins: 1951-1982Amazon
28Porter WagonerTryin' to Forget the BluesThe Essential Porter WagonerAmazon
29Tennessee Ernie FordThat's AllMasters 1949-1976 [Disc 3]Amazon
30Hank ThompsonI'm Not Mad, Just HurtMost Of AllAmazon
31Sanford ClarkThe FoolChills & Fever: The Dot Records Story 1955-1962Amazon
32Choir / Faron Young / Hubert LongTurn Her DownThe Complete Capitol Hits of Faron Young (1 of 2)Amazon
33Carl SmithWicked LiesKisses Don't LieAmazon
34Wanda JacksonI Gotta KnowRockin' With Wanda [US Bonus Tracks]Amazon
35Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers/Jimmy WrightThe ABC's of LoveThe Doo Wop Box, Vol. 2 Disc 2Amazon
36The ChordettesBorn To Be With YouFour By Four – Girl GroupsAmazon

Little Bit O’ Bad

A little bit of good, a little bit of bad, and a whole lot of Americana classics. This morning’s Deeper Roots show runs the gamut from boogie Woogie to country ballads, classic rock, soul, blues, gospel and everything but the kitchen sink. Dave Stroud will be featuring songs that celebrate the band of gold, bad boys, bad girls, schooldays nostalgia, and the silly notion that black cats are no more than a warning when, in fact, they are a sign from on high of the very best being yet to come. Tune in for the likes of Stephen Stills, Johnny Cash, Cleo Brown, NRBQ and…yes, Billie Eilish as we celebrate America’s roots from then until now where no ocean is wider nor mountain is high. Celebrate a free form extravaganza with us as we push our way through August, well past the dog days and into the breezy, cool nights of summer’s waning. All for you and the neighborhood on KOWS Community Radio.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1NRBQA Little Bit Of BadMessage For The Mess AgeAmazon
2Maurice Williams & The ZodiacsStayStreet Corner Symphonies (Disc 2)Amazon
3Ronnie HawkinsMatchboxDuane Allman: An Anthology, Vol. 2 [Disc 1]Amazon
4The Hunt SistersElvis Is Rocking AgainDirty Boogie:The Fortune Records StoryAmazon
5Elvis PresleyDirty Dirty FeelingElvis Is Back!Amazon
6Cleo BrownBoogie WoogiePicking the Blues – Compiled By John Mayall – Boogie Woogie PioneersAmazon
7Big Joe TurnerBoogie Woogie Country GirlBig, Bad & Blue: Anthology [Disc 3]Amazon
8Robbie Fulks & Linda Gail LewisBoogie Woogie Country GalWild! Wild! Wild!Amazon
9The DriftersLet The Boogie Woogie RollThe Definitive Drifters [Disc 1]Amazon
10Robert PlantLet The Boogie Woogie RollMore FriendsAmazon
11Ella Mae Morse & Her Boogie Woogie SevenDown The Road ApieceCapitol Records' From The Vaults, Volume 5 – Roots Of Rock 'N' Roll – 1944-53Amazon
12Billie EilishBad GuyWhen We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?Amazon
13Robert GordonBad BoyBad BoyAmazon
14The Jive BombersBad BoyCry-BabyAmazon
15Slim Rhodes BandBad GirlSun Ballads 1953-62Amazon
16The MiraclesBad GirlThe 35th Anniversary CollectionAmazon
17Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kin…Mama Don't Like My ManI Learned the Hard Way (Bonus Version)Amazon
18Johnny CashI Will Rock And Roll With YouThe Legend: Old Favorites And New [Disc 2]Amazon
19Willie NelsonBring Me Sunshine ("Naked" Version)Naked WillieAmazon
20Roy OrbisonDream BabyThe Monument Singles: A-Sides (1960 – 1964) [Disc 1]Amazon
21Roy OrbisonShe Wears My RingCryingAmazon
22Greg BrownBand of GoldDown in ThereAmazon
23Don CherryBand Of GoldRockin' & Rollin' Wedding Songs, Vol. 1Amazon
24Elvis PresleyWear My Ring Around Your Neck50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong: Elvis' Gold Records – Volume 2Amazon
25Rev. Emmett DickinsonA Black Cat Has Crossed Your PathApple Bobbing Mix Vol. 2Amazon
26Johnny WinterBlack Cat BoneThe Progressive Blues ExperimentAmazon
27Memphis MinnieBlack Cat Blues – Take 1Queen Of Country Blues [Disc 5] (1936-1937)Amazon
28Johnny CashMean Eyed CatThe Man In Black 1954-1958 [Disc 1]Amazon
29Johnny CashRing Of FireCountry Music: A Film By Ken Burns – The Soundtrack [Disc 1]Amazon
30Roy OrbisonRock HouseThree Classic Albums+Singles and Sessions 1956-1962 [Disc 1]Amazon
31PixiesHavalinaBossanovaAmazon
32BR5-49I'm Going DownDog DaysAmazon
33Stephen StillsAcadienneMan Alive!Amazon
34Louis JordanBoogie Woogie Blue PlateNumber OnesAmazon
35Marty WildeBad BoyThe Epic Story 1960Amazon

Dirty Money

We’ve heard them all, the quotes about money being the root of all evil, you can’t take it with you, money can’t buy happiness…but there’s this one little thing that is seldom expanded on and that is the story of ‘dirty money’. There’s plenty of fodder in that area…from the banker CEO to the coal company CEO…there’s never an effort to help raise all boats, only the yachts. Capitalism is our theme. No, wait, is it bank robbing? No, most likely the working man trying to put bread on the table. Hold on, I know. It’s runaway inflation and the blame game. In any event, we’ll be all over the board in today’s show, bringing you music about money cravin’ folks from Blind Alfred Reed, working down on Maggie’s Farm and we’ll also have ourselves a hint of a fireside chat to make us feel better. We’ll also head down to coal country and Bonnie and Clyde, Woody Guthrie, and “Voila! An American Dream” from Rodney Crowell. Tune in. Should be fun.



No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1David RawlingsMoney Is the Meat in the CoconutPoor David's AlmanackAmazon
2The Andrews SistersMoney is The Root of All EvilGolden Age of the Andrews Sisters [Disc 2]Amazon
3Randy NewmanIt's Money That MattersLand of DreamsAmazon
4Rodney CrowellVoila, An American DreamCollectionAmazon
5Bob BrozmanFollow The MoneyPost-industrial BluesAmazon
6Eartha Kitt/Henri René & His OrchestraJust an Old Fashioned GirlPurr-Fect: Greatest HitsAmazon
7Dr. John(Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite AwayThe Atco/Atlantic Singles 19681974Amazon
8Ry CooderNo Banker Left BehindPull Up Some Dust And Sit DownAmazon
9Woody GuthrieThe Jolly Banker (Woody Guthrie)Woody at 100: The Woody Guthrie Centennial Collection [Disc 2]Amazon
10Jake Xerxes FussellAll in Down and OutJake Xerxes FussellAmazon
11Roy ZimmermanJoel OsteenRize UpAmazon
12Bob DylanMaggie's FarmThe Essential Bob Dylan [Disc 1]Amazon
13Blind Alfred ReedMoney Cravin FolksComplete Recorded Works 1927-29Amazon
14Barbecue BobWe Sure Got Hard Times NowBankers Blues – A Study in the Effects of Fiscal MischeifAmazon
15Bo CarterTimes Is Tight Like ThatBankers Blues – A Study in the Effects of Fiscal MischeifAmazon
16Betty O' BrianMoney HoneyPoint Of No Return: The Liberty Records Story 1962Amazon
17The O'JaysFor The Love Of MoneyFunk ExplosionAmazon
18Solomon BurkeHoney Where's The Money GoneNashvilleAmazon
19John Lee HookerI Need Some MoneyThat's My Story ( Sings the Blues)Amazon
20SNCC Freedom Singers; Reagon, CordellWhich Side Are You On?Voices Of The Civil Rights Movement, [Disc 2] (Ensembles)Amazon
21Bruce SpringsteenThe Ghost of Tom JoadChapter & VerseAmazon
22Wray Family(Dark As A Dungeon Way) Down In The MineBirth / Work / Death – Work, Money And Status In Country Music (1950-1974)Amazon
23Band Of RuhksCoal Mining Man featuring Dr. Ralph StanleyBand Of RuhksAmazon
24Buddy DurhamSixteen TonsBirth / Work / Death – Work, Money And Status In Country Music (1950-1974)Amazon
25Justin Townes EarleDown In The ValleyCoal Country MusicAmazon
26Stan Farlow1040 BluesBirth / Work / Death – Work, Money And Status In Country Music (1950-1974)Amazon
27Rex AllenMoney, Marbles And ChalkThe Versatile Rex Allen [Disc 2]Amazon
28Merle Haggard And The StrangersThe Legend Of Bonnie And Clyde (2006 Digital Remaster)Hag: The Best of Merle HaggardAmazon
29Merle HaggardWorking Man BluesMerle Haggard Country Legend-Disc 1Amazon
30Ferlin Husky22 – Money Greases the WheelsFerlin Husky SinglesAmazon
31J.J. CaleMoney TalksThe Very Best of J.J. CaleAmazon
32Kronos QuartetWhich Side Are You OnLong Time Passing: Kronos Quartet and Friends Celebrate Pete SeegerAmazon

Down the Mississippi

With its ever-changing course, its flowing waters and historical significance, the Mississippi River serves as a powerful metaphor for the American story. The river is a lifeblood nourishing the land while also serving as a path to freedom itself, symbolizing the pursuit of freedom and progress from the North to the Gulf of Mexico. Additional to all of this are its routes of trade and commerce that highlight both the American spirit and prosperity. This week’s Deeper Roots show celebrates the river that got its name after the northern Minnesota people, the Ojibway, and their name for ‘big river’ as well as songs of the namesake state and delta as well. Performances include mid-century recordings from country favorites the Delmore Brothers and Jimmie Skinner, blues from Charlie Musselwhite and the Rufus Thomas, as well as classic recordings of Bob Dylan, Charley Pride, Pops Staples and the Boswell Sisters. Tune into West County radio each Friday morning at 9 Pacific.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Kay StarrMississippiCapitol Collectors SeriesAmazon
2Allen ToussaintBright MississippiThe Bright MississippiAmazon
3J.J. CaleMississippi RiverGrasshopperAmazon
4Janet Klein and Her Parlor BoysMississippi MudWhoopee Hey Hey!Amazon
5Pops StaplesDown In MississippiPeace To The NeighborhoodAmazon
6Charley PrideRoll On MississippiAnthologyAmazon
7Danielia CottonRoll On MississippiRoll On Mississippi – SingleAmazon
8Bruce CockburnSunrise on the MississippiDart to the HeartAmazon
9Bob DylanMississippiLove and TheftAmazon
10Hank PennyMississippi MuddleKing Of Hillbilly Bebop [Disc 1]Amazon
11Jimmie SkinnerI Miss the Mississippi and You1960-1962 (Warped 6188)Amazon
12Delmore BrothersMississippi Shore1946-1947 (Warped 4679)Amazon
13The BrownsMister and MississippiClassics 1963-1964 (Warped 6384)Amazon
14Boswell SistersRoll On MississippiBoswell SistersAmazon
15Sammy Price & the Blues SingersMississippi MoanSammy Price and the Blues Singers Vol. 1 1938 – 1941Amazon
16Roy Book BinderMississippi JohnThe Hillbilly Blues CatsAmazon
17Charlie MusselwhiteBlues Up The RiverMississippi SonAmazon
18Rufus ThomasFunky MississippiThe Complete Stax/Volt Soul Singles, Vol.2: 1968-1971 [Disc 1]Amazon
19MountainMississippi QueenSuper Hits Of The '70s: Have A Nice Day, Vol. 1Amazon
20The New Christy MinstrelsMighty MississippiRamblin'Amazon
21Tennessee Ernie FordMr. And MississippiThe History Of Country & Western Music (Disc 19)Amazon
22Cheryl WheelerLighting Up The Mighty MississippiSylvia HotelAmazon
23George Jones & Melba MontgomeryI'd Jump The MississippiVintage CollectionsAmazon
24Bobbie GentryMississippi DeltaOde To Billy JoeAmazon
25SNCC Freedom Singers; Jones, MarshallIn The Mississippi RiverVoices Of The Civil Rights Movement, [Disc 2] (Ensembles)Amazon
26Mavis StaplesDown In Mississippi (Cd)We'll Never Turn BackAmazon
27Merle HaggardMiss the Mississippi and YouThe Peer SessionsAmazon
28Jesse WinchesterMississippi, You're On My MindThe Best Of Jesse WinchesterAmazon
29Marty StuartMississippi Railroad Blues [Instrumental][Instrumental]Ghost Train: The Studio B SessionsAmazon
30Doc & Merle WatsonMississippi Heavy Water BluesSittin' Here Pickin' the BluesAmazon

Swamp Pop Fest

Swamp pop. What is it and where does Tex Mex begin and country blues end? Well, just listen for that Louisiana backbeat, a taste of torch song and rocking rhythm. We’ll take on the music of Tex Mex next week but this week we’ll be sampling some of the greats of that splinter genre referred to as ‘swamp pop’; music that was grafted from a number of different root source sounds. Swamp pop remains an important cultural expression of the Acadiana region, celebrated for its heartfelt and nostalgic qualities. While it never achieved the widespread commercial success of other genres, swamp pop has maintained a dedicated following and continues to be performed by contemporary musicians. We’ll share the sounds of some of the genre’s most popular:  Warren Storm, Tommy McLain, Rod Bernard, Clint West and so many others. Drop on by.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Cookie & the CupcakesMathildaSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
2Joe BarryI'm A Fool To CareDon't Do It: The Smash Record Story 1961-1962 [Disc 2]Amazon
3Joe BarryTeardrops in My HeartI'm a Fool to Care: The Complete Recordings 1958-1977, Vol. 1Amazon
4Joe BarryLittle Jewel of the Vieux CarreI'm a Fool to Care: The Complete Recordings 1958-1977, Vol. 1Amazon
5Rockin' SidneyShirley JeanSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
6John FredShirleyThe History of New Orleans Rhythm & Blues [Disc 3]Amazon
7Rod BernardThis Should Go On ForeverSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
8Rod BernardDiggy Liggy LoSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
9Rod BernardColindaSwamp Gold, Vol. 2Amazon
10Warren StormPrisoner's SongSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
11Warren StormHey Ma MaBoppin' By The Bayou – Made In The ShadeAmazon
12Lil' Band Of Gold/Warren StormPlease Mr. SandmanAmericana Roots Songbook: LouisianaAmazon
13Little Bob & The LollipopsNobody But YouOxford American 11th Edition Southern Music 2009Amazon
14Lil' Bob & the LollipopsI Got LoadedSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
15Johnnie AllanLonely Days & Lonely NightsSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
16Jivin' GeneBreaking Up Is Hard To DoSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
17Dale & GraceI'm Leaving It All Up to YouSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
18Clint WestOur LoveSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
19Clint WestBig Blue DiamondsSwamp Gold, Vol. 2Amazon
20Cookie & His CupcakesBreaking Up Is Hard To DoRhythm 'n' Bluesin' By The Bayou – Vocal GroupsAmazon
21Cookie And The CupcakesUntil ThenLouisiana & The Old New Orleans SoundAmazon
22Cookie & The CupcakesGot You on My MindSwamp Gold, Vol. 2Amazon
23Shelton Dunaway & The CupcakesMary Lou Doing The PopeyeThe History of New Orleans Rhythm & Blues [Disc 5]Amazon
24Tommy McLainSweet DreamsSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
25Tommy McLainBefore I Grow Too OldThe Essential CollectionAmazon
26Tommy McLainBefore I Grow Too OldI Ran Down Every DreamAmazon
27Tommy McLainSomebody (Radio Edit)I Ran Down Every DreamAmazon
28The UniquesAll These ThingsSwamp Gold, Vol. 2Amazon
29Randy & the RocketsLets Do the Cajun TwistSwamp Gold, Volume 1Amazon
30Joe BarryJust BecauseDon't Do It: The Smash Record Story 1961-1962 [Disc 2]Amazon
31Cookie & The CupcakesI CriedBob Dylan Presents: Radio Radio, Theme Time Radio Hour, Vol. 1Amazon
32Tommy McLainI Ran Down Every Dream (feat. Elvis Costello)I Ran Down Every DreamAmazon
33Rockin' SidneyMy Toot-TootAlligator Stomp: Cajun Zydeco ClassicsAmazon

J.J. Cale Tribute

When J.J. Cale’s first album came on the scene in 1972, it exuded something different…some kind of “timeless cool” with it’s imposing John Bunyan raccoon album cover and understated country sound setting it apart from everything else out there. Not psychedelia, not rock exactly, and certainly not the LA sound that was hip at the time. It was, as it has since been coined, the “Tulsa sound”. Many have covered John Weldon Cale’s music and many have become rock standards while others languish only to be rediscovered year after year by new listeners who hear that “timeless cool” and those breezy treasures he left us. We’ll feature a number of covers today, as well as his own originals in a show that will take you down a river whose currents are slow but determined.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1J.J. CaleCall The DoctorNaturallyAmazon
2Eric ClaptonCall Me the BreezeThe Breeze: An Appreciation of JJ CaleAmazon
3Case GarrettCall Me The BreezeAuroraAmazon
4Marc CohnAfter MidnightListening Booth: 1970Amazon
5Waylon JenningsClydeOnly Daddy That'll Walk the Line: The RCA Years Disc 2Amazon
6The BandCrazy MamaHigh On The HogAmazon
7Maria MuldaurCajun MoonLouisiana Love CallAmazon
8J.J. CaleHey BabyThe Very Best of J.J. CaleAmazon
9Widespread PanicTravelin' LightChoice Cuts: The Capricorn Years 1991-1999Amazon
10Eric ClaptonTravelin' LightReptileAmazon
11Eric Clapton/J.J. CaleDon't Cry SisterThe Road to EscondidoAmazon
12John Mayall & The BluesbreakersSensitive KindA Sense of PlaceAmazon
13Chris SmitherMagnoliaHappier BlueAmazon
14Shannon McNallyMagnoliaMagnolia – SingleAmazon
15Tony Joe WhiteLouvelda (feat. J.J. Cale)Collected [CD3]Amazon
16J.J. CaleRock and Roll RecordsOkieAmazon
17Eric ClaptonAfter MidnightThe Cream of ClaptonAmazon
18J.J. CaleAnyway the Wind BlowsOkieAmazon
19KansasBringing It BackKansasAmazon
20Eric Clapton/J.J. CaleDangerThe Road to EscondidoAmazon
21Shannon McNallyLow RiderBlack IrishAmazon
22J.J. CaleRoll OnRoll OnAmazon
23Eric Clapton/J.J. CaleHeads in GeorgiaThe Road to EscondidoAmazon
24The TractorsThe Tractors-Rhythm BoneTrade UnionAmazon
25Eric ClaptonMagnolia (feat. John Mayer)The Breeze: An Appreciation of JJ CaleAmazon

White Powder Muse

Cocaine is one of a few substances that have served as a muse, both in word and effect, in various forms of art throughout history, particularly in the 20th century. Its influence can be found repeatedly in the music industry, peaking in use during the 1980s when it was used by performer and listener as the disco and party-going atmosphere exploded, Contributing to this bacchanal were films depicting its use (and abuse) with plot themes embracing the white powder in storytelling. Cocaine’s impact is predominant in the genres of rock, jazz, and hip-hop and many performers have openly discussed their cocaine use, and its influence can be heard in lyrics, musical styles, and even album artwork. This week’s show looks at this muse with sounds from Margo Price, The Reverend Horton Heat, Lucille Bogan, Fred Neil and a host of others from 1929 to the present.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Roy HogsedCocaine BluesSwinging Hollywood Hillbilly CowboysAmazon
2Hank Williams IIICocaine BluesRisin' OutlawAmazon
3Dick JusticeCocaineOld Time Music From West VI : Old-Time Music From West VirgiAmazon
4Carl MartinThat New Kind Of StuffCarl Martin, Tennessee Chocolate Drops, Louie Bluie & Ted Bogan, Willie "61" Blackwell — Complete Recorded WorksAmazon
5Lucille BoganBaking Powder BluesCocaine BluesAmazon
6Johnny CashCocaine BluesSilverAmazon
7Billy HughesCocaine BluesCountry & Western Hit Parade 1947Amazon
8Son VoltCocaine and AshesAmerican Central DustAmazon
9The Reverend Horton HeatBales of CocaineHoly RollerAmazon
10Hank Thompson & His Brazos Valley BoysCocaine BluesDance RanchAmazon
11Miss Marcy & Her Texas Sugardaddy'sWhiskey And CocaineDeep EllumAmazon
12Grateful DeadCasey JonesWorkingman's DeadAmazon
13The ByrdsTake A Whiff On MeUntitled / Unissued [Disc 1]Amazon
14Fred NeilSweet CocaineThe Many Sides Of Fred Neil [Disc 1]Amazon
15Woody GuthrieTake A Whiff On MeMuleskinner Blues (The Asch Recordings, Vol. 2)Amazon
16Woody GuthrieBad Lee Brown (Cocaine Blues) (traditional, arr. Woody Guthrie and Cisco Houston)Woody at 100: The Woody Guthrie Centennial Collection [Disc 2]Amazon
17Jackson BrowneCocaineRunning On EmptyAmazon
18Dave Van RonkCocaineTwo Sides of Dave Van RonkAmazon
19Eric ClaptonCocaineSlowhandAmazon
20Margo PriceCocaine CowboysAll American MadeAmazon
21Doc & Merle WatsonLet the Cocaine BeLive & Pickin'Amazon
22The Manhattan TransferThat Cat Is HighAnthology – Down In Birdland (Disc 2)Amazon
23Chick Webb & His OrchestraWacky DustCocaine BluesAmazon
24Louis Armstrong & His OrchestraKickin' The Gong AroundCocaine BluesAmazon
25Cab Calloway & His Cotton Club OrchestraKickin' The Gong AroundChronological Cab Calloway (1932-1934)Amazon
26Mills Blue Rhythm BandKokey JoeCocaine BluesAmazon
27The Spirits of RhythmJunk ManCocaine BluesAmazon
28Curtis MayfieldPushermanThe Very Best Of Curtis MayfieldAmazon
29The Ink SpotsThat Cat Is HighCocaine BluesAmazon
30Memphis Jug BandCocaine Habit BluesCocaine BluesAmazon

Celebrating Smokey

The songs of Smokey Robinson have stood the test of time, remaining popular and relevant across generations. His compositions have been covered by artists from various genres, further cementing a legend as one of the greatest songwriters of his era. This week, we take a walk through a handful of the many classics he gave us, spanning three decades, focusing primarily on the Motown song machine classics from The Marvelettes, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Mary Wells, and, of course, his own group The Miracles. There is no question that his songwriting style and lyrical finesse have influenced generations of musicians and, coupled with his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with catchy melodies, standards were set for songwriters in the R&B and soul genres; not to mention the groundswell of the sixties sound of Berry Gordy’s Motown Records. A morning of pure soul and pop that will include some sweet contemporary covers (if we can squeeze them in). 

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Bonnie BramlettYou've Really Got A Hold On MeLady's ChoiceAmazon
2Barrett StrongMiseryNorthern Soul – The Early Years – 100 Classic And Rare Tracks (CD2)Amazon
3The MiraclesBad GirlThe 35th Anniversary CollectionAmazon
4The ContoursWhole Lotta WomanThe Very Best of The ContoursAmazon
5Smokey Robinson & the MiraclesShop AroundMotown: The Classic Years Disc 1Amazon
6Mary Wells/The Love-TonesYou Beat Me to the PunchMotown: The Classic Years Disc 1Amazon
7Gene ChandlerYou Threw A Lucky PunchNorthern Soul – The Early Years – 100 Classic And Rare Tracks (CD2)Amazon
8Mary WellsThe One Who Really Loves YouHitsville USA: The Motown Singles Collection 1959-1971 Disc 1Amazon
9Mary WellsTwo LoversThe Soul of Detroit – Disc 1Amazon
10The MiraclesGoing to a Go-GoMotown: The Classic Years Disc 1Amazon
11Brenda HollowayWhen I'm GoneHitsville USA: The Motown Singles Collection 1959-1971 Disc 2Amazon
12Carolyn CrawfordMy Smile Is Just a Frown (Turned Upside Down)Hitsville USA: The Motown Singles Collection 1959-1971 Disc 1Amazon
13The MiraclesBaby Don't You Go [Single Version]The 35th Anniversary Collection [Disc 2]Amazon
14The TemptationsThe Way You Do The Things You DoThe Best Of The Temptations, Vol. 1: The 60sAmazon
15MarvelettesWay Over ThereNorthern Soul – The Early Years – 100 Classic And Rare Tracks (CD3)Amazon
16Marvin GayeAin't That PeculiarMarvin Gaye IconAmazon
17The ContoursFirst I Look at the PurseThe Very Best of The ContoursAmazon
18The TemptationsGet ReadyThe Best Of The Temptations, Vol. 1: The 60sAmazon
19Marvin GayeOne More HeartacheAnthology [Disc 1]Amazon
20Marvin GayeI'll Be Doggone20th Century Masters – The Millennium Collection: The Best of Marvin Gaye, Vol. 1Amazon
21Marvin GayeTake This Heart Of MineAnthology [Disc 1]Amazon
22The ContoursDeterminationThe Very Best of The ContoursAmazon
23Chris ClarkFrom Head To ToeSoul Sounds – RemasterAmazon
24The MarvelettesDon't Mess With Bill20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection: Best Of The MarvelettesAmazon
25The MarvelettesThe Hunter Gets Captured By The Game20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection: Best Of The MarvelettesAmazon
26Johnny RiversThe Tracks of My TearsGreatest Hits [Capitol]Amazon
27Smokey Robinson & the MiraclesMore LoveHitsville USA: The Motown Singles Collection 1959-1971 Disc 3Amazon
28Tammi TerrellHe's The One I LoveCome On And See Me: The Complete Solo CollectionAmazon
29Diana Ross & The SupremesThe ComposerThe Best Of Diana Ross & The Supremes [Disc 2]Amazon
30The Four TopsStill Water (Love)The Ultimate CollectionAmazon
31Smokey Robinson & the MiraclesTears of a ClownMotown: The Classic Years Disc 2Amazon
32The SupremesFloy JoyGold Disc 2Amazon
33Rare EarthGet ReadySoundsavers – Old School No. 6Amazon
34Rita CoolidgeThe Way You Do The Things You DoDelta Lady: The Rita Coolidge Anthology [Disc 2]Amazon
35SylvesterOoo Baby BabyThe Original Hits [1989 Fantasy]Amazon