Hometown Bluegrass Show

On this week's episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts and Josh Williams welcome one of bluegrass music's most recognizable voices, Darren Nicholson. Darren joins us to talk about his career in bluegrass, his time with Balsam Range, his current projects, songwriting, touring, and what continues to inspire him as an artist. You'll also hear stories from the road and get Darren's perspective on the state of bluegrass music today.We also take a few minutes to visit with one of our valued podcast sponsors, The Lakehouse Inn. We sit down with the owner to learn more about this beautiful destination, what makes it special for visitors, and why it has become a favorite place for travelers looking to experience the Kentucky Lake area.As always, Josh picks a tune, we share a few laughs, and bring you another fun conversation from the world of bluegrass music.In This Episode:Darren Nicholson discusses his bluegrass journey and current music projectsStories from life on the road and behind the scenes in bluegrass musicA spotlight interview with the owner of The Lakehouse InnThanks for listening to The Hometown Bluegrass Show! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your bluegrass-loving friends.For more information, merchandise, and past episodes, visit www.timbatts.com.

In Episode #89, Tim and Josh dive into one of the most debated topics in bluegrass music — guitar picks.From thickness and tone to grip and durability, the guys break down what makes a great pick for flatpicking and rhythm guitar. Whether you’re a beginner trying to find your sound or a seasoned picker chasing that perfect tone, this conversation is packed with practical insight and plenty of pickin’ talk.Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper episode without some live music.Josh delivers a standout performance of “Oak Valley Girl” — full of drive, heart, and that traditional bluegrass spirit we all love. It’s the kind of song that reminds you why this music still resonates generation after generation.

This week’s episode is a special family edition of The Hometown Bluegrass Show as Josh is joined by his son, Wheldon, behind the mic. The two share conversation, laughs, and a deep love for traditional bluegrass that runs generations deep.Josh delivers a heartfelt performance of the timeless classic “Wayfaring Stranger,” reminding us why these old songs still speak so powerfully today.We’re also excited to welcome newcomer Jackson Harris to the show. Jackson sits down with Josh and Wheldon to talk about his latest music, his journey into bluegrass, and what inspires his sound as a rising artist in the genre.From family ties to fresh voices, Episode 87 is all about honoring tradition while looking ahead to the future of bluegrass.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with Jamie Johnson of The Grascals for an honest conversation that goes far beyond the music.Jamie and Josh Williams open up about their personal journeys through addiction, recovery, and redemption. With transparency and humility, they discuss the struggles they faced, the turning points that changed their lives, and how faith, support, and bluegrass music played a role in their healing.The conversation highlights how music can be both an escape and a lifeline, offering hope not only to artists but to listeners walking similar roads. Jamie also shares reflections on life on the road, brotherhood in bluegrass, and how recovery has reshaped his perspective on music, family, and purpose.This episode is a reminder that bluegrass is more than notes and harmonies—it’s a community, a testimony, and a place where real stories matter.

This week, Josh Williams didn’t just bring great music — he brought family. Hearing Josh sing alongside his two sons was a powerful reminder of what bluegrass is all about: passing songs, faith, and tradition from one generation to the next.There’s something truly moving about a father sharing the mic with his children, harmonies blending with love, respect, and a shared passion for the music. These are the moments that make this music timeless and keep our roots growing strong.If you believe in family, tradition, and music that means something, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.