In this special episode, we're live from the 2024 River Folk Fest, bringing you the best in bluegrass music! This year’s featured bands were The River Dust Duo, 5th Degree, The Dalton Harper Band and The Grascals. Who are celebrating their 20th Year as a bluegrass band. Join hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams as they sit down with two legendary figures in the bluegrass world, Jamie Johnson and Terry Smith of The Grascals. Jamie and Terry share stories from the road, the evolution of their sound, and what keeps them inspired after all these years. We'll also dive into the rich history of River Folk Fest, a beloved event that celebrates the roots of folk and bluegrass music. Tune in for exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews, festival highlights, and, of course, plenty of music!

In this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams bring you another hour of bluegrass goodness! Josh kicks things off with a classic tune from the legendary Lester Flatt, showcasing his signature picking style. Then, we sit down for a special interview with the "Banjo Preacher" himself, Steve Bruce from Tennessee. Steve shares his unique journey blending bluegrass music with his faith, and we dive into his passion for playing the banjo and spreading the gospel through music. You won't want to miss this inspiring and music-filled episode!

In this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams bring you another fantastic hour of music and conversation rooted in bluegrass tradition. Josh Williams kicks things off with a special performance of his hit song, "Mordecai," showcasing his signature sound and exceptional talent.

Later in the show, we’re joined by Johnathan Keeton of the West Liberty Mountain Boys, hailing from the heart of Eastern Kentucky. Johnathan talks about the band’s journey, their roots in West Liberty, KY, and what it means to carry the rich bluegrass legacy forward. Tune in to hear stories from the road, insights into their music-making process, and a preview of what's next for this incredible band.

Don’t miss this episode packed with heartfelt music and inspiring conversation, perfect for any true bluegrass fan!

In this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh sit down with the incredibly talented singer-songwriter Daryl Mosley. Known for his heartfelt storytelling and timeless bluegrass tunes, Daryl shares his journey in the music industry, his approach to songwriting, and the inspiration behind some of his most beloved songs.

In a special moment, Josh brings Daryl's song "Prodigal Son" to life with a live performance, giving listeners a chance to hear the emotion and depth that have made this song a fan favorite. It's a rich conversation filled with insights into the heart of bluegrass music, stories from Daryl's career, and a beautiful rendition of a powerful song.

Tune in for an episode that celebrates the music and spirit of bluegrass storytelling!

On episode 32, Tim and Josh have a fun conversation with Grammy Award Nominee Dave Adkins. There is no mistaking the raw and powerful vocals by singer, songwriter, and guitarist Dave Adkins. During his impressive career, Adkins has achieved an extensive list of awards and nominations in Bluegrass, Country, and Gospel music, along with achievements for his songwriting. His extraordinary vocal talents are evident from his significant chart success and stellar live performances.

Josh also teaches how to play Pride of Man by Tony Rice on guitar. Hope you enjoy this episode.

Tribute to Bobby Hicks - Episode #29. On this episode Tim & Josh pay tribute to Bobby Hicks who was surely among the most celebrated and enduring musicians to ever play bluegrass music. Bobby died from complications of heart disease. After suffering a heart attack on Saturday (8/10). He was 91 years of age.

Josh also answers a question sent in by a listener about when and how to improvise during a bluegrass instrumental lead break.

This podcast is presented by Allen Music in Paducah, KY. www.allenmusicshop.com

On this episode Tim & Josh talk to Dennis Cook, The Chairman of the Board for Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Festival 2024 and The Rosine Barn in Rosine, KY.

They also talk about Josh Williams' run in with the cops, Rhonda Vincent's new album and Josh talks about when and how to use a "G Run" in bluegrass music.

On this episode Tim & Josh discuss bluegrass music news, Josh Williams plays an old Gordon Lightfoot song and we have a great conversation with Randall Deaton. Randall Deaton’s affinity for making music was apparent from early on, but it was his dedication and devotion that inspired him to form his record label, Lonesome Day Records, and strive to make an indelible mark on the music industry.Randall and Lonesome Day Records have made a triumphant return after a nearly 10 year hiatus.  The label’s first release since 2015, Silver Bullet Bluegrass is an exceptional tribute to legendary rocker Bob Seger, brought to fruition by an all-star lineup of Bluegrass singers and players.  Gary Nichols, Tim Shelton, Shonna Tucker, Bo Bice, Tim Stafford, Bill Taylor, and Larry Cordle are among the artists who contributed vocals to the record. Merging the indelible melodies Bob Seger is famous for with a Bluegrass interpretation is a unique concept, yet both Seger and Bluegrass possess the power of authenticity and inspiring engagement. One might say the two were made for each other.

On this episode Tim Batts & Josh Williams talk about bluegrass news, Rhonda Vincent's new single, Wagon Wheel, and Josh's love/hate relationship of the song. Josh also plays the classic Jerry Reed song called The Likes of Me. Then they talk to bluegrass gospel singer and former band leader for Lee Greenwood, Eric Horner. Music has always been a major part of Eric Horner's life. Born and raised in Paducah KY, he grew up with a guitar in his hands playing and singing Gospel music all over Western KY, Southern IL and Southeast MO. Eric’s first big musical influence was a young man by the name of Steven Curtis Chapman. The two met when Steven became Eric’s first guitar teacher in the 6th grade. Learning the “Chapman Method” of guitar playing prepared Eric well for what the Lord had in store down the road.

Eric moved to Nashville TN at the age of 19 to pursue his dream of becoming a professional songwriter and musician. It didn't take long for the doors to open and over the next 17 years Eric toured the world playing with such artists as Lee Greenwood, Shania Twain, Wynonna Judd and Brad Paisley. In 2002, all of that changed. Eric began to feel a call on his life to return to his Gospel music roots and to use his talents for a higher purpose.

Thanks to our sponsors. Allen Music, Puckett's Jewelry, Custom Automotive, Mimmie's Pizza & Subs and The Lakehouse Inn.

On this episode Tim and Josh talk about the latest bluegrass music news, Josh teaches how to play the Tony Rice song John Wilkes-Booth and we have a fun talk with Pinecastle recording artist Ashleigh Graham.

Ashleigh Graham is no stranger to bluegrass. Growing up listening to her father play the fiddle, she followed in his footsteps to become a musician. Throughout her youth and teenage years, she graced stages at festivals all across the southeastern United States, and at just fifteen, Ashleigh recorded her first bluegrass album It’s Easy to Forget. Graham signed on to Pinecastle Records, and has recently released her new single titled “Bless Your Little Heart.” Following this exciting release, there is still more to come from Ashleigh Graham. An EP from her is on the horizon and it features renowned musicians like Stephen Burwell, Eli Johnston, John Meador (Authentic Unlimited), and Kameron Keller (Lonesome River Band). This class-act group of musicians contribute their talents to create a driving bluegrass sound that perfectly complements Ashleigh’s vocals and mandolin playing.

On this episode Josh Williams plays an old Bill Monroe classic Working On A Building in the key of D. And we find out what Banjo man and founder of the band Sideline, Steve Dilling has been up to lately and when you can catch them out on the road for the few dates they will be playing.

Join us on this special episode of the Hometown Bluegrass Show as we sit down with the legendary Josh Williams, a 20-time bluegrass player of the year, as he reflects on the poignant anniversary of losing his father seven years ago. Through heartfelt conversation and a soul-stirring rendition of How Great Thou Art, Josh shares cherished memories of his dad and the unforgettable moments they shared sharing bluegrass music together. Tune in as we celebrate the enduring bond between father and son, woven through the fabric of bluegrass music and the connection they create.

On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts and Josh Williams talk some bluegrass music news, Josh talks about his recent gigs he's traveling and playing, Josh also plays the Tony Rice song "Song For Winter's Night." Tim and Josh then sit down and talk to the song writing legend Ronnie Bowman. Ronnie talks about some of his hit songs and where they came from, what he thinks are key elements that go into song writing and what he's been up to lately. Then we play Ronnie and Chris Stapleton singing one of Ronnie's songs. It's a great episode!

On this episode Josh talks about playing this past weekend at the Tony Rice Memorial Bluegrass Festival and spending some intimate time with Tony Rice’s 1935 Martin Guitar D-28. Ole #58957 as Josh affectionately calls it. Then we have a fun interview with Junior Sisk! He and Josh talk about the old times and tell funny stories and talk about maybe recording together sometime soon.

We had a fun show last night recording the podcast at Allen Music. We had a great interview with Gaylon Harper with Harper Collective. Josh teaches some guitar tips and we feature the Hometown of Olive Hill, KY. New episode will be out this Friday morning! Find it anywhere you listen to podcasts!

On this episode Tim and Josh talk about Keith Whitley’s hometown of Sandy Hook, KY., Josh teaches a Keith Whitley guitar lick and plays I’m No Stranger To The Rain and we sit down with Don Rigsby. Don Rigsby, from Isonville, Kentucky, is a a living legend in the field of bluegrass music. A Grammy-winning producer, he is well-known as a world-class singer, mandolin player, and recording artist.

On this week’s podcast will be our dear friend and mandolin extraordinaire Danny Roberts! Founding member and 20 years with The Grascals, we will chat about his growing up in the Bluegrass state of Kentucky, playing music with Josh Williams when he was younger, his family and his passion for bluegrass music!

In this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show Josh Williams and Tim Batts sit down with Greg Cahill, founding member of The Special Consensus bluegrass band. It is a great interview with tons of laughs and fun stories looking back when Josh started playing with them as his very first music job straight out of High School.

Josh also teaches the details of how to play the song Me and My Guitar, the Tony Rice version. Plus lots more!