Americana Podcast

In celebration of Billy Strings' recent Grammy win, Americana Podcast is proud to present a remastered version of this episode. Join us today as our host, Robert Earl Keen, speaks with Billy Strings about learning to play, the skill of songwriting, and looking up Americana music.

Robert Earl Keen sits down with James McMurtry for an intimate look at the songwriter’s lifelong commitment to honest, character-driven storytelling. They trace McMurtry’s path from his Texas roots through his early years on the road and into a career defined by sharp observation and endurance. From Too Long in the Wasteland to The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, McMurtry reflects on craft, influence, and what it means to tell the truth in song.

The journey continues in part two of Robert Earl Keen’s conversation with Terry and Jo Harvey Allen, through decades of art, adventure, and enduring love. From their West Texas roots to the creative frontiers of California and New Mexico, the Allens trace a life spent in pursuit of story and song—where every project becomes a new chapter in a shared artistic odyssey. Together, they reveal how chance, courage, and devotion have shaped a partnership as boundless as the landscapes that inspire them.

Turnpike Troubadours frontman Evan Felker joins host Robert Earl Keen to talk songwriting, staying grounded, and the road back to the stage. From Oklahoma roots to national resonance, it’s a deep dive into the heart of Red Dirt music and the stories that make it real.

In this episode of Americana Podcast: The 51st State, we step beyond the soundwaves and into the world of style to explore how fashion shapes—and is shaped by—Americana culture. Host Robert Earl Keen sits down with Roger and Jackie Chieffalo, the founders of Chieffalo Americana, a Fort Worth-based western outfitter that’s rewriting the rules of heritage fashion. Their brand fuses vintage western roots with a modern, urban sensibility, creating garments that speak with the same soul and intention as a well-crafted song. As Roger and Jackie share their journey, listeners will discover how Chieffalo Americana came to life—not overnight, but through a slow-build of shared passion, deliberate craftsmanship, and a deep respect for tradition. This conversation weaves together stories of design, identity, and cultural influence, proving that in Americana, every movement has its merchandise—and every great outfit tells a story.

As Robert Earl Keen & team look forward to more touring, a new record, and a new season of the Americana Podcast, join us as we take a moment to look back, in order to look forward for what’s to come. This episode contains the previous season’s best-of moments from the 51st State. Hear conversation clips from bluegrass genre-bender Billy Strings (01:41), American Aquarium's BJ Barham (08:56), modern day troubadour Brent Cobb (14:45), REK’s good friend and touring pal Elizabeth Cook (18:23), zen-master and songsmith Jim Lauderdale (21:54), the everywoman wonderwoman Lori McKenna (29:38), wild and wonderful Todd Snider (33:21) , and the unmistakable baritone of Jake Smith aka White Buffalo (43:17). We also have insight from Will Vogt (41:28), long-time friend, contributor, and supporter of Americana Podcast. Consider this 5-Year Anniversary recap as your “CliffNotes”, something to study up on before we begin to release next season’s episodes in April 2025, which will feature more of what you’ve come to expect and love about the podcast: in-depth and candid conversations about the craft of songwriting within the greater Americana genre with our trusted and time-tested host, Robert Earl Keen. As well as a very exciting sneak peek from Robert himself about the future of Americana Podcast, and where we are growing and evolving with the genre for the future!! - Billy Strings (01:41) o BJ Barham (08:56) o Brent Cobb (14:45) o Elizabeth Cook (18:23) o Hiss Golden Messenger (21:48) o Jim Lauderdale (24:54) o Lori McKenna (29:38) o Todd Snider (33:21) o Vince Herman (37:50) o Will Vogt (41:28) o White Buffalo (43:17)

In this episode of Americana Podcast, host Clara Rose welcomes listeners to a new year and a special show featuring Hiss Golden Messenger. Hiss Golden Messenger, a California native and North Carolina resident, is recognized for his unique blend of soul, rhythmic rock, blues, and experiential lyricism. Celebrating the release of his new record M.C. Taylor (Hiss) talks about the Americana punk continuum, finding space in the studio and much more. The episode also marks a significant milestone, harking back to the early days of the podcast when long-time contributor Will Vogt first introduced the works of M.C. Taylor, aka Hiss Golden Messenger to the show.

It's time to break out the party hats and pop the champagne because the Americana Podcast is celebrating its 4th anniversary! For the past four years, this podcast has been a leading voice in the Americana music scene, sharing interviews, stories, and music from some of the genre's most talented artists. And in our tireless efforts to promote and celebrate the diverse range of sounds and styles, we’ve made plenty of memories and laughter along the way. We’ve strived to provide insights into the creative process, the challenges of the music industry, and share the rich history and culture that inspires Americana music. In order to celebrate this fun little birthday of ours, I’m very pleased to invite you to a live panel recording we did at the Arcadia Live in Kerrville Texas!

Americana Podcast speaks with the artists who possibly have the most pertinent opinions on the state of Red Dirt and Texas Country and their weight in the views of Americana music. On this episode we have musical and actual giant Ray Benson from Asleep at The Wheel. Defender of the Dance Hall Randy Rogers, Okie not from Muskogee Jason Boland of Jason Boland and the stragglers, young blood William Beckmann, whip smart Wade Bowan, and philanthropist at heart Josh Abbott. Saddle up and enjoy the show.

Recorded at Natchez 4th of July Celebration in Natchez, MS- Blues singer-songwriter, Paul Thorn, joins host Robert Earl Keen, to discussing his musical history, opening for Sting, songwriting, and his latest record "Never Too Late to Call". With a special bonus interview at the end with blues/funk group The B3

If it’s one thing that we love here at americana podcast, it is the concept of the artistic process. We’re not alone in this, it seems that when anyone speaks about artists, musical, visual, conceptual- you name it- one of the first things people will go into or ask about, is how a piece of art came to exist. Jim Lauderdale is here to tell us.

As we look to the future of this show, we take a moment to fondly remember our favorite moments from past episodes