Category Archives: Featured Music

Freedom Train

Summer’s in full tilt and we’re not ready quite yet for the heat. But that won’t stop us cartwheeling down the musical halls as we take an eclectic ride on a free form Friday. Themes and tradition will rule today’s playlists, making way for some great roots rock favorites from Elvis, Chuck Berry and Roy Orbison. Country music is well represented with a lonesome George Strait train song, some hellbound Billy Strange, and a trip to Texas with Iris DeMent. KOWS Community Radio features Deeper Roots each and every Friday morning at 9 Pacific and this particular morning is no different save for a few snowflakes in the wind. We’ll also dig deeper for some tracks from The Ravens, The Golden Nuggets, The Beach Boys and a little bit of Dr. John. Join us on our free form journey!

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Bing CrosbyThe Freedom Train [Single Version]Their Complete Recordings Together [Disc 1]Amazon
2Iris DeMentGoin' Down To Sing In TexasWorkin' On A WorldAmazon
3Randy NewmanPolitical ScienceSail AwayAmazon
4Simon & GarfunkelAmericaOld Friends Disc 2Amazon
5Louis ArmstrongSummer SongThis Is Jazz SamplerAmazon
6The RavensSummertimeOld Man RiverAmazon
7Jim ByrnesAin't No Love In The Heart Of The CityLong Hot Summer NightsAmazon
8Roy OrbisonSummer SongCryingAmazon
9The ChimesSummer NightAnother Banana Split, pleaseAmazon
10The Beach BoysYour Summer DreamSurfer GirlAmazon
11Dr. JohnSuch A NightThe Atco/Atlantic Singles 19681974Amazon
12Elvis PresleySuch A NightThe Essential 60's Masters I [Disc 1]Amazon
13Chuck BerryDownbound TrainThe Chess Box Disc 1Amazon
14Billy StrangeHell TrainHillbillies In Hell (Country Music's Tormented Testament 1952-1974)Amazon
15The Golden NuggetsGospel TrainOxford American Music Issue #13-MississippiAmazon
16George StraitTrains Make Me LonesomeStrait Out of the Box [Disc 3]Amazon
17MudcrutchShady GroveMudcrutchAmazon
18Doc WatsonShady GroveSongs From HomeAmazon
19The Campbell Brothers Feat John MedeskiAmazing GraceCan You Feel It?Amazon
20Cat Power & Dirty Delta BluesAmazing GraceDark Was The Night: A Red Hot Compilation [Disc 2]Amazon
21Norma JeanLet's Go All the Way30th Anniversary Collection Disc 1Amazon
22Ray CharlesLet's Go Get StonedGenius – The Ultimate Ray Charles CollectionAmazon
23The Isley BrothersLet's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go [Remastered 1991]Complete United Artists SessionsAmazon
24Al Greene/Soul's MateBack up TrainSmooth Grooves: The '60s, Vol. 3: Late '60sAmazon
25Johnny BondLonesome TrainPut Me To BedAmazon
26Robert GordonLonesome Train (On a Lonesome Track)Robert Gordon with Link Wray/Fresh Fish SpecialsAmazon
27Elvis PresleyMystery TrainLonesome Whistle – An Anthology Of American Railroad SongAmazon
28Robert GordonDrivin' Wheel [*]Robert Gordon with Link Wray/Fresh Fish SpecialsAmazon
29Chuck BerryBrown Eyed Handsome ManThe Chess Box Disc 1Amazon

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

Tex Mex Fest

We took a journey to the south in last week’s show and this week, we head further west where we’ll share a vibrant and dynamic genre that reflects the rich cultural fusion of its geographic origins, combining traditional Mexican folk music with contemporary American influences of country, rhythm and blues, and rock. With the accordion and bajo sexto, drums, bass and guitar punching a hefty rhythm whose lyrics are often filled with catchy hooks and danceable beats, it is prominently featured in festivals, celebrations and public events across the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. We’ll share some of the influentials from across the border like Lydia Mendoza as well as the mainstays and popular artists of the past half century including Freddy Fender, Doug Sahm, The Texas Tornados, Flaco Jimenez, The Mavericks and a dozen others in this week’s Deeper Roots fest.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Conjunto Sotavento de Nacho FierroLa BambaTex Mex Folk 1920s to 1950sAmazon
2Lydia MendozaJurameLone StarAmazon
3Lydia MendozaMal HombreAmerican Roots Music [Disc 4]Amazon
4Las Hermanas MendozaMis pensamientosThe Rough Guide to Tex-MexAmazon
5Little Joe & La FamiliaLas NubesAmerican Roots Music [Disc 4]Amazon
6Conjunto BernalMi Unico CaminoLone StarAmazon
7Ritchie ValensLa BambaSouthern California With Fond MemoriesAmazon
8Freddy FenderBefore The Next Teardrop FallsBefore The Next Teardrop FallsAmazon
9Los Super SevenCupido (ft. Freddy Fender & Rick Trevino)Heard It On The XAmazon
10Freddy FenderWasted Days And Wasted NightsCountry CrossroadsAmazon
11The Texas TornadosWho Were You Thinkin' OfTexas TornadosAmazon
12Doug SahmNuevo LaredoBest of Sir Douglas 68-75Amazon
13Sir Douglas QuintetDynamite WomanMono Singles '68-'72Amazon
14Sir Douglas QuintetShe's About A MoverSir DouglasAmazon
15Tejas Brothers (w/ Augie Meyers and Larry Joe Taylor)RosaLive a Little MoreAmazon
16Los LobosWill the Wolf Survive?El Cancionero: Mas y Mas (1 of 4)Amazon
17The MavericksVolver, VolverCollection [2003]Amazon
18The MavericksVen Hacia Mi (Come Unto Me) [Conjunto Version]In Time (10th Anniversary Deluxe)Amazon
19Eddie "Lalo" Torres Y Su ConjuntoArriba San AntonioThe Rough Guide to Tex-MexAmazon
20Santiago Jimenez Jr.Alma de TejasThe Rough Guide to Tex-MexAmazon
21Flaco JimenezEl PesudoFlaco JimenezAmazon
22Flaco JiminezThe Girls From Texas featuring Ry Cooder (Album Version)PartnersAmazon
23Flaco JimenezPor Una Mujer BonitaFlaco JimenezAmazon
24Linda RonstadtMi Ranchito (My Little Ranch)Mas CancionesAmazon
25Ry Cooder w/Sam SamudioNo QuieroThe Border/Alamo BayAmazon
26Sam The Sham & The PharaohsWooly BullyMemphis Celebrates 50 Years Of Rock 'n' RollAmazon
27David Lindley & El Rayo-XTexas TangoVery GreasyAmazon
28Charley PrideIs Anybody Goin' To San AntoneCountry USA 1970Amazon
29Marty RobbinsEl PasoAll-Time Greatest HitsAmazon

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

Bad Road To The River

It’s been a while since we went free form so today’s show takes our regular breather from genre-focused explorations, theme, retrospectives and artist-inspired shows. There will be all of that found in the mix this morning. Interspersed between some fresh sounds from the likes of Dylan LeBlanc, Charley Crockett, and a newly revealed Johnny Cash nugget, we’ll be sharing everything from Dave Brubeck to Los Indios Tabajaras, Marvin Rainwater, and Johnny Thunder in our show today. From a pair of Memphis Minnie covers, some country classics from Patsy Cline, swinging rhythm from Louis Jordan, and straight-ahead rock from The Doobie Brothers and The Georgia Satellites…it’s a Friday morning full of Duane Eddy tributes and we’ve even got Slim Whitman…just for you on Sonoma County Community Radio, broadcasting on the FM airwaves out of Occidental, California, and streaming to the whole wide world on kowsfm.com/listen. KOWS-LP 92.5 FM is “Free Speech. No Bull” Community Radio.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Duane EddyForty Miles Of Bad RoadDance With The Guitar ManAmazon
2Dylan LeBlancSensitive KindPastimesAmazon
3Down Like SilverTo the RiverLight That Match – SingleAmazon
4Johnny ThunderLoop De LoopThe Very Best Of Johnny ThunderAmazon
5The Georgia SatellitesAlmost Saturday Night / Rockin' All Over the WorldRubaiyat Elektra's 40th Anniversary [Disc 2] (1990)Amazon
6The Doobie BrothersLong Train Runnin'The Very Best Of The Doobie Brothers [Disc 1]Amazon
7Patsy ClineGot A Lot Of Rhythm In My SoulVolume 3Amazon
8Linda MartellI Almost Called Your Name (Remastered 2022)Color Me Country (Sun Records 70th / Remastered 2022)Amazon
9Slim WhitmanBlue Eyes Crying In The RainThe Absolutely Essential 3 CD Collection  2013Amazon
10Willie NelsonMade In TexasThe BorderAmazon
11Duane EddyDance With The Guitar ManDance With The Guitar ManAmazon
12Johnny CashBury Me Not on the Lone PrairieCome Along And Ride This Train [Disc 2]Amazon
13T Bone BurnettHe Came DownThe Other SideAmazon
14Charley CrockettHard Luck & Circumstances$10 CowboyAmazon
15Jorma KaukonenRed River BluesBlue Country HeartAmazon
16Jefferson AirplaneEmbryonic JourneySurrealistic Pillow [Bonus Tracks]Amazon
17The Dave Brubeck QuartetUnsquare DanceSilver Linings Playbook: Original Motion Picture SoundtrackAmazon
18Los Indios TabajarasAlways In My HeartMaria Elena/Always In My HeartAmazon
19Ria ValkSanto Domingo (Fernando, Alfredo En Jose)The Wanda Jackson Connection (30 Roots And Covers Of Wanda Jackson)Amazon
20Eileen BartonFujiyama MamaThe Wanda Jackson Connection (30 Roots And Covers Of Wanda Jackson)Amazon
21Marvin RainwaterBaby, Don't GoWhole Lotta WomanAmazon
22Clifton ChenierMe And My ChauffeurKing Of The BayousAmazon
23Louis JordanCaldoniaLiving The Blues – Jump Blues & BoogieAmazon
24Jim McCracklinThinkLiving The Blues – 1965 – 1969 Blues ClassicsAmazon
25Howlin' Wolf300 Pounds Of JoyLegends of Guitar – Electric Blues (Vol. 1)Amazon
26Sonny Boy Williamson IIOne Way OutThe Real Folk BluesAmazon
27Jimmy ReedHush, HushThe Very Best of Jimmy ReedAmazon
28John Lee HookerIt Serves You Right To SufferThe Definitive CollectionAmazon
29Johnny CashWell AlrightSongwriterAmazon
30Lydia & Her Melody StringsJust A Queen For A DayThe Wanda Jackson Connection (30 Roots And Covers Of Wanda Jackson)Amazon
31Duane EddyRebel RouserTwang Thang: The Duane Eddy Anthology [Disc 1]Amazon
32Duane EddyRamrodTwang Thang: The Duane Eddy Anthology [Disc 1]Amazon

That’s The Spirit

There’s hardly a branch or root extension of American music that is not somehow connected the gospel. The themes of love, betrayal, birth, death, and the soul’s redemption have all long been played out repeatedly in the pulpit each and every Sunday. Thoughts and prayers are easily spent when the hard work isn’t as palpable to deal with. This week’s show blends the gospel of the Baptist, Pentacostal and Church of Christ as they were the big leader of the rafter shakers on the way to “Beulah Land” with a little bit of swing and country favorites. Tune in for music that runs the gospel gamut from the Soul Satisfiers of Philadelphia and the Gospel Songbirds to Sister Oda Mae Terrell and the country pairings of the Chuck Wagon Gang, Mac Wiseman, Kitty Wells, and of course, Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. Deeper Roots revisits some gospel classics in another Friday morning blend of the past 100 years of America’s music. Here on KOWS Community Radio. Free Speech. No Bull.

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Rev.Willingham And The Swanee QuintetThat's The SpiritI Heard The Angels Singing : Electrifying Black Gospel From the Nashboro Label 1951-1983Amazon
2Maria Muldaur with Tuba SkinnySwing You SinnersLet's Get Happy TogetherAmazon
3Tony BennettSing You Sinners [#]The Essential Tony Bennett [Columbia/Legacy] Disc 1Amazon
4The Brothers ComatoseModern Day SinnersRespect The VanAmazon
5Billy Ward & The DominoesLittle Black TrainVol. 4-21 HitsAmazon
6The RobinsThat's What The Good Book SaysHot R&B and Cool Blues 1946-52Amazon
7Freddie & The Hitch HikersSinnersSongs From The Crazy Cramps Collection Disc 01Amazon
8Gospel SongbirdsThe Bible Is RightThe Best Of Nashboro GospelAmazon
9Sister O. M. TerrellThe Bible's RightCountry Gospel 1946-1953Amazon
10Sister O.M. TerrellI'm Going To That CityPreachin' The Gospel – Holy BluesAmazon
11Sister Rosetta TharpeLook In The Good Book BrotherSister On TourAmazon
12Soul Satisfiers Of PhiladelphiaRun On Home And Live With GodPowerhouse Gospel Vol 1Amazon
13The Swan SilvertonesSinner ManJesus Rocked The Jukebox: Small Group Black Gospel (1951-1965)Amazon
14The Soul StirrersSinner Run To Jesus (Take 1)Jesus Rocked The Jukebox: Small Group Black Gospel (1951-1965)Amazon
15The WeaversSinner ManWasn't That A Time – Disc 2 – This Land Is Your LandAmazon
16Woody GuthrieLittle Black TrainMuleskinner Blues (The Asch Recordings, Vol. 2)Amazon
17Johnny CashI Hung My HeadAmerican IV: Man Comes AroundAmazon
18Johnny CashUnclouded DayVoice of the Spirit, Gospel of the SouthAmazon
19Chuck Wagon GangSinner, You'll Miss Heaven1941-1948 (Warped 4128)Amazon
20Kitty WellsDust on the BibleDust on the Bible (1959)Amazon
21Willie NelsonFamily BibleOne Hell Of A RideAmazon
22Mac WisemanI'm Using My Bible For A RoadmapMost RequestedAmazon
23Cowboy CopasFour Books In The BibleHeartwarming Gospel – 18 Best of King GospelAmazon
24Elvis PresleyRun OnArtist of the Century Disc 2Amazon
25The KendallsHeaven's Just A Sin AwayCountry Gold-1Amazon
26The Whitstein BrothersSinner You'd Better Get ReadyOld Time DuetsAmazon
27Johnny CashGod's Gonna Cut You DownAmerican V: A Hundred HighwaysAmazon
28Reverend Robert Ballinger And The Gospel ChimesJohn SawHow Sweet it WasAmazon
29Nina SimoneGin House BluesThe AmazingAmazon
30Fern JonesI Am A Pilgrim And A StrangerThe Glory RoadAmazon
31Sister Rosetta TharpeLay Down Your SoulVol. 3-1946-47 Complete RecordAmazon
32Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain BoysRank StrangerClassic BluegrassAmazon
33Eddy ArnoldSinner's PrayerWarped 5133 – Eddy Arnold – 1951Amazon
34Buddy MillerThere's A Higher PowerUniversal United House Of PrayerAmazon
35Johnny CashThe Old Rugged CrossJohnny Cash Sings Precious MemoriesAmazon

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

420 Fun

It’s a topical theme…it’s a medicinal thing…it’s a blend of sounds celebrating vipers and jives from the past century.  We will join in the celebration (in spirit anyway) of the date and time that three Marin County teenagers are said to have inaugurated over a half century ago. There is no shortage of material to pull from the well of Americana…whether that be from the 1920s or from the 2010s. We’ll brighten up the playlist with music that will help us kick back. We’ll pour over a selected list of great sounds from the last 100 years that either directly or indirectly find us thinking about (or maybe imbibing in) the herb so many care about. There will be music from John Prine, Willie Nelson, Kacey Musgraves, Ray Charles and some early century jazz nuggets you will find hard to resist. Friday morning sounds from the Cherry Street Historic District of Santa Rosa, California, streaming to West County and the world on KOWS-LP, Occidental 92.5 FM and kowsfm.com/listen. 

No.ArtistTitleAlbumBuy
1Johnny PriceMarijuana, The Devil FlowerHillbillies In Hell (Country Music's Tormented Testament 1952-1974)Amazon
2CordovasStone Cold StonedThe Rose of AcesAmazon
3Yonder Mountain String BandTwo Hits and the Joint Turned BrownMountain Tracks, Vol. 2Amazon
4Sam BushGranny Wontcha Smoke Some MarijuanaRadio John: Songs of John HartfordAmazon
5Commander Cody & His Lost Planet AirmenSeeds And Stems (Again)Lost In The OzoneAmazon
6Jesse DaytonDope Smokin' SongThe Alternate Root 420 SamplerAmazon
7Merle Haggard/Willie NelsonIt's All Going to PotDjango and JimmieAmazon
8Willie Nelson/Snoop Dogg/Kris Kristofferson/Jamey JohnsonRoll Me Up (Album version)HeroesAmazon
9k.d. langSmoke RingsDragAmazon
10Kacey MusgravesHigh TimePageant MaterialAmazon
11MoonaliceIt's 420 SomewhereDave's Way Vol 1Amazon
12Chris StapletonMight As Well Get StonedTravellerAmazon
13Asleep At The WheelJack I'm MellowNew RoutesAmazon
14Ashley MonroeWeed Instead Of RosesLike A RoseAmazon
15Brothers OsborneWeed Whiskey And WilliePort Saint JoeAmazon
16John PrineIllegal SmileGreat Days: The John Prine Anthology Disc 1Amazon
17Kacey MusgravesBurn One With John PrineDemosAmazon
18Tom PettyYou Don't Know How It FeelsWildflowersAmazon
19Ben HarperBurn One DownFight for Your MindAmazon
20Julia LeeMarijuanaKansas City Star [Disc 4]Amazon
21The Ink SpotsThat Cat Is HighCocaine BluesAmazon
22Trixie SmithJack I'm MellowTrixie Smith Vol. 2 1925-1929Amazon
23Buck WashingtonSave the Roach for Me [FCC Warning n word]When Hemp Was HipAmazon
24Dave Van RonkYou's A ViperDave Van Ronk And The Ragtime Jug StompersAmazon
25Wayne HancockViperA-Town BluesAmazon
26Harlan PepperReeferThe Alternate Root 420 SamplerAmazon
27Ray CharlesLet's Go Get StonedUltimate Hits Collection [2 of 2]Amazon
28The Devil Makes ThreeChampagne And ReeferRedemption & RuinAmazon
29Chris Ardoin and Double Clutchin'Stay In or Stay Out – Pass the DutchiePutomayo Presents ZydecoAmazon