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New Release Now JamFest Spotlight on NRN Radio Tonight Featuring Roy Buchanan – Tellin’ It My Way (Live Denver ’74) KUPI

by JamFestNRN Radio Show

This Wednesday night at 9PM EST, JamFest on NRN Radio dives deep into the guitar mastery of Roy Buchanan with the newly released Tellin’ It My Way (Live Denver ’74) – 2025 Edition. Known for his expressive bends, impeccable phrasing, and soulful blues tone, Buchanan remains one of the most influential guitarists in rock and blues history. Dubbed “the best unknown guitarist in the world,” his playing inspired legends like Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and this live Denver set captures him at the peak of his powers.

Recorded in 1974, the performance showcases Buchanan’s improvisational brilliance, from fiery blues riffs to delicate, emotional passages that convey a profound depth of feeling. The 2025 remaster delivers stunning clarity and energy, allowing listeners to experience the intensity and nuance of the original concert as if they were front-row attendees. Highlights include extended improvisations, signature tone, and those unforgettable moments where technical mastery and pure emotion meet.

Fans and critics alike are praising the release for its authenticity and detail, making it a must-have for collectors and guitar enthusiasts. Whether you’re a longtime Buchanan devotee or new to his work, Tellin’ It My Way offers a window into the genius of a musician whose live performances were legendary for their spontaneity and emotional resonance.

Unveiling the Enchantment: A Very Special Handpicked New Release

Tonight on JamFest, NRN Radio is also celebrating a handpicked new release from your favorite music artist, an album that transcends the ordinary and transforms listening into a fully immersive experience. From the first note, this release pulls you into a world of lush melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and breathtaking arrangements. Each track is carefully crafted, reflecting the artist’s dedication and connection to their audience. It’s not just music—it’s a journey, a conversation between artist and listener, a celebration of emotion, artistry, and imagination. Every listen reveals new layers, turning the album into a living, evolving experience that invites repeated exploration.

Why Tune In to JamFest Tonight

JamFest is more than just a radio show—it’s a celebration of music in all its forms, featuring live recordings, rare archival performances, and new releases from today’s top artists. Tonight’s lineup highlights:

  • Roy Buchanan – Tellin’ It My Way (Live Denver ’74) – 2025 Release: Legendary blues guitar, remastered for a new generation.
  • A very special new release from your favorite music artist: A handpicked, emotionally resonant album designed to enchant and inspire.

Join 1,270 listeners (430 unique) from over 50 countries on TuneIn as JamFest transports you through live blues, historic performances, and fresh sounds. NRN Radio’s Wednesday nights feature JamFest alongside shows like What Is Hip?!, Project Reggaeologist, and NewGrass Radio. Weekly features include Live Nuggets, New Releases Now, and Festival Radio Show, while weekends bring EDM, club sets, and festival highlights from events like Newport Folk Festival.

Don’t miss tonight’s JamFest at 9PM EST—immerse yourself in the blues mastery of Roy Buchanan and the magic of a very special new release, only on NRN Radio. Every note, every riff, every melody promises to leave listeners inspired and captivated, proving once again why JamFest is the ultimate destination for music lovers worldwide.

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JamFest Spotlight: Brandi Carlile Live at Benaroya Hall with the Seattle Symphony

by JamFestLive Nuggets

JamFest is all about celebrating the magic of live music—the unforgettable moments when artists transcend the studio and give fans a once-in-a-lifetime performance. Tonight, we’re turning the spotlight on a truly landmark event in Brandi Carlile’s career: her 2011 live collaboration with the Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall.

And don’t miss it tonight on Live Nuggets Radio, airing a very special handpicked live concert in its entirety at 9 PM EST, featuring Brandi Carlile – Live at Benaroya Hall with the Seattle Symphony. This is your chance to experience a full orchestral set that captures the depth, power, and intimacy of Carlile’s live performance.

A Landmark Orchestral Collaboration

Recorded over two sold-out nights in 2011, this concert series marked a bold step for Carlile, pairing her emotive, soul-driven songwriting with the sweeping grandeur of a full symphony orchestra. The result is a rare and timeless live document that fuses folk, rock, and orchestral textures into a cinematic musical experience.

Benaroya Hall, with its pristine acoustics and intimate atmosphere, provided the perfect setting. Carlile’s band and the Seattle Symphony worked in seamless harmony, elevating every song with lush arrangements and dynamic interplay. Fans and critics alike have hailed these performances as some of her most definitive live work, capturing both vulnerability and soaring musicality.

Setlist Highlights

The two-night series was later released as a live album, showcasing a carefully curated setlist that moves fluidly between introspection and cathartic release:

  • Before It Breaks – A stirring opener that sets the tone, blending Carlile’s signature vocal intensity with sweeping orchestral layers.
  • Dreams – A fan favorite brought to life with orchestral richness, expanding the emotional landscape of the song.
  • That Year – Carlile’s evocative storytelling is amplified by the symphony’s textures, making every lyric feel monumental.
  • Looking Out and Fall Apart Again – Intimate moments of reflection, enhanced by subtle strings and horns that underscore Carlile’s raw emotional delivery.
  • Dying Day and Closer to You – Powerful mid-set performances that balance lyrical introspection with orchestral dynamics.
  • Shadow on the Wall and Caroline – Showcasing Carlile’s ability to combine narrative depth with musical sophistication.
  • The Story – Perhaps her most iconic song, performed here with breathtaking orchestral support, creating a cinematic and unforgettable live experience.
  • Pride and Joy – A celebratory, energetic moment that demonstrates Carlile’s band and orchestra in perfect sync.
  • Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen cover) – Closing the night with a transcendent rendition of Cohen’s classic, leaving audiences awestruck.

Each song highlights Carlile’s incredible range as a vocalist, songwriter, and live performer, while giving the Seattle Symphony the chance to shine in a modern, genre-crossing collaboration.

Why This Performance Matters

This Benaroya Hall series is widely regarded as one of Brandi Carlile’s defining live moments. It shows her fearless approach to reinterpretation—transforming familiar songs into something bigger, bolder, and emotionally resonant. Fans walking away from the shows—or listening to the recording years later—witness an artist at the height of her creative vision, bridging the worlds of indie-folk and orchestral majesty.

For anyone exploring Carlile’s catalog, this live album and concert series serve as a masterclass in emotional storytelling, dynamic arrangement, and the power of live collaboration. It’s a reminder that live music isn’t just a performance—it’s an immersive, transformative experience.

Tune In Tonight

Tonight on Live Nuggets Radio, experience the magic for yourself. At 9 PM EST, the station will air Brandi Carlile – Live at Benaroya Hall with the Seattle Symphony, giving listeners a front-row seat to a historic live performance from start to finish. From soaring symphonic swells to intimate vocal moments, this is the perfect showcase of why JamFest celebrates live music above all else.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Carlile’s music for the first time, tonight’s show promises to deliver the kind of emotional depth, technical mastery, and sheer joy that only a live concert can provide. Don’t miss it—this is live music at its finest, brought straight into your home.

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Experience Legendary Live Music Today on JamFest: Buddy Guy and NewGrass Radio Highlights

by All Things Considered LiveJamFestNewGrass Radio

JamFest continues to bring the best in live music straight to your home, and today’s lineup is packed with unforgettable performances and genre-spanning talent. At 7PM EST, tune in to the All Things Considered Live radio show for an exclusive broadcast of blues legend Buddy Guy’s full performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1994. Following that, at 9PM EST, NewGrass Radio brings the freshest sounds in progressive bluegrass, showcasing the innovative blend of traditional roots and modern creativity known as “Music Without Rules!”

Buddy Guy Live at Newport Jazz Festival (1994)
Buddy Guy’s 1994 concert at Newport Jazz Festival is widely celebrated as one of the artist’s most electrifying performances. Recorded during a period of career resurgence following the Grammy-winning success of Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues (1991), this concert highlighted Guy’s fiery guitar work, soulful vocals, and commanding stage presence.

The performance featured high-energy medleys, including an unforgettable sequence of “All Your Love (I Miss Loving),” “Five Long Years,” and “Someone Else Is Steppin’ In (Slippin’ Out, Slippin’ In).” Another standout medley featured classics like “Mustang Sally,” “Sweet Little Angel,” and “Feels Like Rain,” capturing the full range of Guy’s blues mastery. Signature tracks such as “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues” and Muddy Waters’ iconic “Hoochie Coochie Man” brought the audience to their feet. In a heartfelt tribute, Guy performed an instrumental cover of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Cold Shot,” honoring his late friend and fellow blues innovator.

The Newport Jazz Festival provided the perfect stage for this dynamic performance, offering Guy the opportunity to merge blues, rock, and jazz in front of a passionate audience. High-quality audio and video recordings of the concert are available from Wolfgang’s, as well as select clips and the full audio on YouTube, allowing fans to relive this legendary night.

NewGrass Radio at 9PM EST
Following Buddy Guy’s set, NewGrass Radio takes over with an eclectic mix of progressive bluegrass and genre-defying artists. Since the 1970s, bands like New Grass Revival—featuring pioneers such as Sam Bush, Béla Fleck, Courtney Johnson, and John Cowan—have reshaped bluegrass by embracing improvisation and blending traditional sounds with rock, jazz, and funk influences. Today’s NewGrass Radio continues that legacy, showcasing both contemporary artists and traditional roots players pushing the boundaries of the genre. Listeners can expect a mix of high-energy instrumentals, soulful vocals, and “Music Without Rules” moments that celebrate the evolution of bluegrass music.

All Things Considered Live Weekly
The All Things Considered Live radio show is a weekly celebration of live music across the United States, featuring performances captured at iconic venues and festivals. From the Newport Folk Festival to SXSW and legendary spots like the 9:30 Club, this show delivers exclusive concerts and festival highlights to music fans everywhere. JamFest listeners can dive into performances from NPR-driven artists, discovering new favorites and reliving unforgettable musical moments.

Today’s JamFest schedule ensures fans get a full evening of musical mastery: first, the fiery, unforgettable blues of Buddy Guy at Newport Jazz Festival, followed by the boundary-pushing sounds of progressive bluegrass on NewGrass Radio. Tune in, turn up the volume, and experience two decades of live music innovation—all in one night.

For today’s full lineup and streaming access, visit JamFest and make sure to catch every note of All Things Considered Live and NewGrass Radio tonight.

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JamFest Sunday Soul featuring the House of Blues Gospel Brunch & the Gospel Lunch Radio Show

by Gospel LunchJamFest

Sundays were made for soul — and no one brings it to life quite like the House of Blues and JamFest’s Gospel Lunch Radio Show. Whether you’re sitting down to a Southern-style brunch or tuning in from home, Sunday mornings are transformed into joyful celebrations of music, community, and heritage.

At the heart of it all? The unmistakable spirit of New Orleans—a city where gospel, jazz, funk, and soul don’t just coexist, they dance together in harmony.

🎤 House of Blues Gospel Brunch: Where Music Meets Biscuits & Grits

The House of Blues Gospel Brunch is not just a meal—it’s an event. Hosted in select cities across the U.S., this unique experience pairs live gospel music with a Southern-style buffet that hits all the right notes. From fried chicken and waffles to soulful harmonies that’ll lift your spirit, the Gospel Brunch is where comfort food meets soul food.

2025 Gospel Brunch Schedule Highlights:

Here’s where you can catch this uplifting Sunday ritual in 2025:

  • Las Vegas – Mandalay Bay
    • November 2, 10:00 AM
    • November 23, 10:00 AM
    • December 7, 10:00 AM
    • December 21, 10:00 AM
  • Chicago – House of Blues
    • December 21 & 28: 10:00 AM & 12:30 PM (two shows each date)
  • Myrtle Beach, SC
  • Orlando (Disney Springs)
    • Currently on hiatus, but expected to return soon. Sign up on the venue’s website for updates.
  • Other Locations:
    • Venues in Anaheim, Dallas, New Orleans, and more may host Gospel Brunches. Always check your local House of Blues website for the latest.

🎟 Getting Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased directly through the House of Blues official site or through trusted resellers like Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, and StubHub.

🎺 JamFest’s Gospel Lunch Radio Show: A NOLA-Infused Musical Feast

If you can’t make it to the brunch in person, JamFest’s Gospel Lunch Radio Show has you covered. Every Sunday from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, this weekly broadcast delivers a rich, rhythmic journey through the heart of New Orleans music—served with a heaping side of gospel soul.

Hosted by DJs who live and breathe NOLA culture, Gospel Lunch is a sonic gumbo blending:

  • 🎷 Traditional gospel choirs
  • 🥁 Street brass bands
  • 🎹 Soulful soloists and church-rooted blues
  • 🎸 Funk and second-line rhythms

This isn’t your standard gospel playlist. It’s a curated celebration of NOLA-style music, full of deep cuts and unexpected gems that showcase the genre’s evolution—from its church-based roots to its impact on funk, soul, and beyond.

The Gospel Lunch crew doesn’t just spin records—they tell stories. Expect fascinating historical tidbits, artist spotlights, and commentary that connects the past to the present, giving listeners a full appreciation of what they’re hearing.

Whether you’re dancing in your kitchen or cruising with the windows down, Gospel Lunch is a weekly ritual that feeds the soul—no matter where you are.

☕ Pair It with Bold Flavor: Nature’s Sunset Bitterroot Coffee

No soulful Sunday is complete without a strong cup of coffee—and the Nature’s Sunset Bitterroot Coffee Blend (Dark French Roast) is the perfect companion.

With its bittersweet chocolate notes, toasted nut aromas, and strong finish, this 12oz roast brings the same bold energy as a brass band. Sourced from South America and roasted in the USA, it’s available in whole bean or ground, and brews beautifully in everything from a French press to your classic drip machine.

Whether you’re sitting down for Gospel Brunch or tuning in to Gospel Lunch, this is the roast that rises to the occasion.

🎶 The Final Note: Soulful Sundays Done Right

In a world moving a little too fast, the combination of House of Blues Gospel Brunch, JamFest’s Gospel Lunch, and a steaming mug of Nature’s Sunset Bitterroot Blend gives Sundays the reset they deserve.

Music, food, culture, and connection—that’s what it’s all about. So whether you’re in a House of Blues venue, listening from your living room, or simply vibing with a good cup of coffee, let your Sunday sing.

🕊️ Tune in. Dine in. Sip up. Let the soul shine through.

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All Things Considered Live: Decoding Dylan’s Electric Shockwave at the Original JamFest

by All Things Considered LiveJamFest

The moment Bob Dylan first plugged in his guitar at the Newport Folk Festival is more than a historical anecdote; it’s a cultural ground zero. This seismic event, often discussed and featured on the All Things Considered Live radio show, represents the ultimate act of artistic defiance and the birth of a new musical genre. We dive deep into the legendary bootleg collection, Bob Dylan – Folk Rogue 1964 – 1965 Two Newport Folk Festival, to explore how these two pivotal performances cemented Dylan’s status as the most disruptive force of the 1960s.

The Show That Defined a Movement: All Things Considered Live

The All Things Considered Live Radio Show is the pulse of NPR-driven musical exploration. This weekly program brings an insider’s view to the vibrant world of live music, featuring exclusive live performances and essential musical highlights recorded by NPR Music. At its core, the show champions the transformative power of the live experience, covering iconic venues and festivals across the country, including the Newport Folk Festival, SXSW (South by Southwest), the 9:30 Club, and many more. The raw energy and historical weight of performances like Dylan’s electric set make it a perennial feature on the program.

Folk Rogue: A Soundboard Chronicle of Transformation

The collection known as Folk Rogue 1964 – 1965 Two Newport Folk Festival is not an official album, but its bootleg status has made it an essential artifact for historians and fans. Sourced directly from the soundboard, the recordings offer a pristine documentation of Dylan’s chameleonic shift, capturing the clarity and intensity that defined his two critical appearances at Newport. This dual-year chronicle is invaluable, preserving the sound quality and historical detail of a singular artistic transition.

1964: The Acoustic Coronation

The 1964 Newport performance captured Dylan at the zenith of his folk icon status. As the festival’s headliner, he delivered an acoustic set that solidified his role as a generation’s lyrical conscience. The bootleg preserves the brilliance of compositions like “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “Chimes of Freedom,” showcasing the poetic depth that resonated with the purist folk audience and set the stage for the dramatic break that was to come.

1965: The Electric Revolution and the Birth of the JamFest

The 1965 set is the legendary focus of the collection, often cited as the night Dylan “went electric.” Backed by a high-voltage blues band, Dylan’s amplified rock sound was met with a chorus of boos from a traditionalist audience that felt profoundly betrayed. This polarizing, three-song mini-set was less about musicianship and more about a declaration of independence.

The subsequent roar of protest, fueled by the sheer volume and the emotional shock of his shift, instantly transformed the venue. This was no longer a reserved folk concert; it became the volatile proving ground for the JamFest aesthetic—a moment where genre lines dissolved under the pressure of electric sound and artistic freedom. This spontaneous collision of sound and culture marks a pivotal moment in the folk-rock movement.

More Than Music: Artistic Defiance and Cultural Shift

The decision to plug in was more than a stylistic choice; it was a potent act of artistic defiance. It represented Dylan’s refusal to be confined by the expectations of his fanbase, establishing a powerful precedent for self-direction in the music world. By merging folk’s lyrical sensibilities with rock’s electric energy, the performance didn’t just catalyze the folk-rock genre—it became a reflection of the tumultuous cultural shifts happening in 1960s America.

The Folk Rogue bootleg also features compelling bonus tracks, including additional live recordings from Newcastle, U.K., and a show at the Hollywood Bowl with Levon Helm and Robbie Robertson, further enriching the collection with rare material documenting this electric evolution.

While the primary source remains within the bootleg market (found via unofficial channels, specialized forums, and import labels), the historical weight has pushed portions of this material into the official realm. Documentary footage appears in PBS’s Bob Dylan – Live in Newport 1963-1965, and select tracks are officially released on collections such as The Bootleg Series Vol. 7: No Direction Home: The Soundtrack.

This is why, decades later, All Things Considered Live continues to revisit the story: it is the perfect example of how a single live performance can change the course of music history.

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JamFest Spotlight Tonight on NRN is the Wu–Tang Clan & Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman

by JamFestNRN Radio Show

In music, some moments are larger than life—they don’t just entertain, they transport, inspire, and redefine the way we experience sound. Tonight on NRN Radio’s JamFest, listeners are invited to dive into such a moment with the handpicked feature: Wu–Tang Clan – Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman, airing at 9PM EST.

From the very first beat, this deep cut delivers more than rhythm and rhyme—it’s a journey into the heart of Shaolin mythology, kung-fu cinema, and the uncompromising creativity of one of hip-hop’s most legendary collectives. This isn’t just a song or a project; it’s a masterclass in storytelling, blending martial arts imagery, philosophical musings, and gritty New York lyricism into a singular, unforgettable experience.

Wu–Tang Clan: Masters of Shaolin Sound

Emerging from Staten Island in the early 1990s, Wu–Tang Clan reshaped the hip-hop landscape with their groundbreaking debut, Enter the Wu–Tang (36 Chambers). Known for their raw production, kung-fu film samples, and dense lyricism, the Clan created an entire sonic universe that merged philosophy, street wisdom, and cinematic flair. Individual members—Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and the RZA, among others—expanded the Wu–Tang influence beyond the group, crafting careers and projects that cemented their place as architects of hip-hop culture.

Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman: A Cult Classic

Tonight’s JamFest feature, Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman, embodies Wu–Tang’s signature blend of martial arts mythology and hardcore rap grit. Drawing inspiration from classic kung-fu cinema, the project centers on the archetype of the wandering swordsman—a rebel, an outlaw, a fighter—mirroring Wu–Tang’s own ethos of redefining the mainstream on their own terms.

Though not one of the Clan’s main studio albums, this project has become a cult favorite, celebrated for its experimental storytelling and mythological depth. Every beat, sample, and lyric is meticulously crafted to immerse listeners in a world where cinematic swordplay collides with razor-sharp bars. It’s music as narrative, and narrative as legend.

Why This Feature Matters

Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman is more than a deep cut—it’s a cultural artifact. It captures Wu–Tang at their most imaginative, bridging East Asian cinematic motifs with the raw energy of East Coast hip-hop. For fans old and new, it’s an opportunity to explore the Clan’s creative universe in vivid detail, experiencing firsthand how they transformed music into mythology.

NRN Radio’s JamFest: Where Legends Come Alive

Every Wednesday night at 9PM EST, JamFest celebrates rare recordings, deep cuts, and legendary moments across hip-hop and beyond. Tonight, the spotlight falls on Wu–Tang Clan’s Black Samson the Bastard Swordsman, offering listeners a handpicked experience that honors the group’s enduring legacy while delivering the thrill of discovery that JamFest is known for.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the Shaolin swordsman’s journey, feel the grit of the streets, and appreciate the artistry that has made Wu–Tang Clan one of hip-hop’s most influential forces. Tune in to NRN Radio’s JamFest tonight at 9PM EST—you won’t want to miss this.

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Live Nuggets Tonight on JamFest is the Joan Baez – The Fare Thee Well Tour Live @ ARTE Concert

by JamFestLive Nuggets

JamFest is thrilled to spotlight a truly unforgettable musical event tonight on Live Nuggets Radio, airing at 9PM EST. We’re diving into the full live concert of Joan Baez’s Fare Thee Well Tour, captured beautifully by ARTE Concert, and it’s an experience no folk music fan will want to miss.

A Career-Spanning Farewell

Joan Baez’s Fare Thee Well Tour, which ran during 2018–2019, was a poignant farewell to a six-decade career that reshaped folk music and activism. This live recording is more than a concert—it’s a retrospective journey through her legendary catalog, blending timeless originals, protest anthems, and carefully chosen covers that have become synonymous with her name.

From the very first notes of “Farewell, Angelina” to the emotional encore of “Blowin’ in the Wind,” Baez invites listeners into a world where music meets activism. The setlist is a testament to her artistry, featuring classics like:

  • “There But for Fortune” – Baez’s socially conscious hit reflecting empathy and awareness.
  • “Suzanne” – A hauntingly beautiful Leonard Cohen cover that captures poetic melancholy.
  • “House of the Rising Sun” – Her evocative rendition of this timeless folk ballad.
  • “Diamonds & Rust” – A personal, intimate look at love and memory.
  • “Imagine” – A powerful interpretation of John Lennon’s iconic anthem for peace.

The encore is a highlight, with “The Boxer” (Simon & Garfunkel) and “Blowin’ in the Wind” closing the night on an uplifting, reflective note that underscores Baez’s enduring commitment to justice, peace, and the human spirit.

Themes of Peace, Justice, and Reflection

This Fare Thee Well performance is far more than nostalgia. It’s a celebration of a life devoted to art and advocacy. Joan Baez’s music has always been intertwined with social movements, and this tour encapsulates six decades of activism, storytelling, and musical innovation. Every song carries the weight of history while speaking to contemporary issues, making this farewell not only a musical experience but a call to reflection and action.

Broadcast Experience

Thanks to ARTE Concert, this special farewell performance reached fans worldwide, preserving the essence of Joan Baez’s final chapter on the global stage. Viewers get the rare opportunity to witness her expressive vocals, heartfelt stage presence, and the subtle, emotive power that has defined her career. It’s a performance that feels intimate, even when broadcast across continents.

Tune In Tonight

Don’t miss tonight’s Live Nuggets Radio Show at 9PM EST, where we’ll play this historic live concert in its entirety. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering Joan Baez for the first time, this broadcast is your front-row seat to a legendary farewell. Experience the music, the messages, and the magic of an artist whose influence spans generations.

Setlist Snapshot:

  1. Farewell, Angelina
  2. There But for Fortune
  3. God Is God
  4. Suzanne (Leonard Cohen cover)
  5. Silver Blade
  6. The President Sang Amazing Grace
  7. House of the Rising Sun
  8. It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue (Bob Dylan cover)
  9. Me and Bobby McGee
  10. Diamonds & Rust
  11. Gracias a la Vida
  12. Imagine (John Lennon cover)
  13. Forever Young (Bob Dylan cover)
    Encore:
  14. The Boxer (Simon & Garfunkel cover)
  15. Blowin’ in the Wind

Join us tonight to celebrate Joan Baez’s extraordinary legacy—her music, her activism, and her enduring voice for peace. Tune in, reflect, and let the melodies of a folk legend fill your evening.

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JamFest Spotlight’s 2025 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, Americana Honors, and Tonight’s NewGrass Radio

by JamFestNewGrass Radio

The fall music season is in full swing, and roots music fans have plenty to celebrate. From the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Awards in Chattanooga to the Americana Honors & Awards in Nashville, September 2025 has been a defining month for artists carrying forward the traditions of American roots music while shaping its future. Add in a wave of new releases, rising stars, and fresh festivals—and top it off with tonight’s NewGrass Radio Show—and it’s clear this is a landmark season for bluegrass and Americana.

IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards 2025: Tradition and Innovation Take Center Stage

On September 18, the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards lit up Chattanooga, Tennessee, during the organization’s annual World of Bluegrass business conference (September 16–20). Once again, the awards proved that bluegrass is both deeply rooted and constantly evolving.

  • Entertainer of the Year: Billy Strings cemented his superstar status, winning for the fourth consecutive time. His genre-bending approach continues to draw new audiences into bluegrass while honoring its traditions.
  • Album of the Year: Fiddle greats Jason Carter and Michael Cleveland scored big for their collaborative project, Carter & Cleveland, showcasing dazzling musicianship and soulful storytelling.
  • Song of the Year: From the same album, “Outrun the Rain” took top honors, reflecting the duo’s lyrical depth and technical mastery.
  • Vocalists of the Year: The legendary Alison Krauss was named Female Vocalist of the Year, while Greg Blake earned Male Vocalist of the Year—a reminder that world-class voices remain central to the bluegrass tradition.
  • Hall of Fame Inductions: Hot Rize, The Bluegrass Cardinals, and Arnold Shultz were welcomed into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. Shultz’s posthumous induction was especially meaningful, honoring the pioneering Black musician whose influence helped shape the sound of early bluegrass.
  • Momentum Vocalist of the Year: Rising talent Ali Vance won recognition as one of the genre’s most promising new voices.

Together, these winners reflect bluegrass at its best: a blend of established masters and emerging stars, with a respect for history and an eye on the future.

New Bluegrass Highlights

  • Fresh Releases: New singles and projects are flowing fast from David Parmley, Mei Lin Heirendt, and Bryan McDowell. Each release adds new shades to the spectrum of contemporary bluegrass.
  • New Festival on the Horizon: Moorestown, New Jersey, will host its first-ever bluegrass festival in September 2025, expanding the genre’s reach into new communities.

Americana Honors & Awards 2025: Nashville’s Ryman Shines

The Americana world gathered on September 10 at the Ryman Auditorium for the Americana Honors & Awards, the crown jewel of AMERICANAFEST 2025. This year’s winners show just how wide-ranging and powerful the Americana sound has become.

  • Artist of the Year: Sierra Ferrell continued her reign, winning for the second year in a row with her distinctive, genre-blending voice and stage presence.
  • Album of the Year: Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats won with South of Here, a record brimming with heart, grit, and soul.
  • Duo/Group of the Year: Folk icons Gillian Welch & David Rawlings captured the honor, their timeless harmonies once again proving unmatched.
  • Emerging Act of the Year: MJ Lenderman earned the award, cementing his spot as one of Americana’s rising stars.
  • Lifetime Achievement Awards: This year’s honorees included Joe Henry, The McCrary Sisters, Old 97’s, Darrell Scott, and Jesse Welles—artists whose contributions continue to shape Americana’s rich narrative.

Beyond the awards, AMERICANAFEST transformed Nashville into a weeklong roots music playground, with hundreds of live performances across venues big and small.

Festivals Keep the Spirit Alive

Not to be overlooked, the Allegheny County Americana Festival in Settlers Cabin Park, Pennsylvania, brought together fans for a free, day-long celebration of music on September 6. With regional performers sharing the stage, the event reinforced Americana’s reputation as both a community-driven and nationally celebrated art form.

Tonight on NewGrass Radio: Tradition Meets Tomorrow

While awards season celebrates the past year’s best, NewGrass Radio keeps the spirit alive every week—and tonight’s broadcast is one you won’t want to miss.

NewGrass Radio is where tradition meets innovation in American roots music. Each show is more than just a playlist—it’s a guided journey through the high-lonesome sound of Bill Monroe’s era, the soulful grace of Alison Krauss, and the boundary-breaking artistry of Béla Fleck, Punch Brothers, and Billy Strings.

Listeners can expect a seamless mix of timeless classics, contemporary bluegrass hits, and the progressive “newgrass” edge that is carrying the genre into a new generation. More than entertainment, each broadcast is a living archive of bluegrass history—bridging the gap between its pioneers and today’s innovators.

Whether you’ve been following bluegrass for decades or you’re just discovering the sound, tonight’s NewGrass Radio Show offers a front-row seat to the full spectrum of American roots music.

Why It Matters

Bluegrass and Americana are experiencing a powerful moment in 2025. Awards and festivals are honoring legends while giving the spotlight to emerging artists. New releases keep the genre fresh, and platforms like NewGrass Radio ensure that fans can explore the roots and the reinvention of this music every week.

From Billy Strings’ dominance to Sierra Ferrell’s artistry, from new festivals in New Jersey to historic inductions in Chattanooga, the message is clear: roots music is thriving, evolving, and reaching more listeners than ever before.

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JamFest Spotlight Tonight John Prine’s Star-Studded Newport Folk Festival Set Comes Alive Tonight on All Things Considered Live

by All Things Considered LiveJamFest

John Prine’s July 30, 2017 performance at the Newport Folk Festival remains one of the most celebrated sets in recent folk history, and tonight, fans can relive the magic as All Things Considered Live broadcasts a special presentation of the show. This particular performance, now immortalized in NPR archives, brought together a remarkable roster of guest artists, creating a collaborative, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Prine’s set opened with the infectious optimism of Love, Love, Love and the tender reflections of Glory of True Love, immediately drawing the audience into his storytelling world. The mix of humor, heartache, and social commentary that defined Prine’s music was on full display throughout the night. Songs like Long Monday and Taking a Walk showcased his signature observational wit, while Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore reminded listeners of the sharp, ironic commentary that made him a legend.

The Newport performance was elevated by a string of guest appearances from contemporary artists who brought fresh energy to Prine’s classics. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver joined on Bruised Orange (Chain of Sorrow), lending his ethereal vocal style to Prine’s haunting narrative. Jim James contributed on All the Best, creating a harmonious exchange that highlighted the enduring power of collaborative folk music. Margo Price added a playful, heartfelt duet for In Spite of Ourselves, cementing the song as a crowd favorite.

The show’s intensity peaked during Sam Stone, with Nathaniel Rateliff’s vocal contributions amplifying the song’s emotional weight, and Hello in There, featuring Roger Waters of Pink Floyd alongside Lucius, delivered a deeply moving moment that resonated across generations of festivalgoers. Prine closed the set with Paradise, a communal finale that reunited all guest performers on stage, leaving an indelible impression on the Newport audience.

For fans eager to revisit this historic evening, NPR’s All Things Considered Live airs tonight, featuring John Prine’s Newport set in its entirety, alongside additional special performances from the festival. The broadcast offers a rare opportunity to experience the synergy of Prine’s songwriting and the collaborative spirit of folk music legends.

This set is not only a celebration of Prine’s artistry but also a reminder of the power of live performance to bring together multiple generations of musicians. From introspective ballads to politically sharp songs and playful duets, Prine’s Newport Folk Festival performance exemplifies why he remains a touchstone in American music.

For listeners across New Jersey and beyond, All Things Considered Live tonight promises an immersive journey into the heart of one of folk music’s most unforgettable performances. Don’t miss this chance to hear John Prine’s masterful storytelling and the remarkable ensemble of artists who joined him on stage. For more on NPR broadcasts and folk festival highlights, visit Explore New Jersey.

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Global Citizen Festival 2025: Music, Activism, and a Night to Remember in Central Park

by Festival Radio ShowJamFest

This Saturday, September 27, the world’s eyes turn to New York City as the 2025 Global Citizen Festival lights up the Great Lawn in Central Park. Known for its rare blend of powerhouse live performances and life-changing activism, the festival has become a global beacon for music lovers and change-makers alike.

This year’s lineup is as bold as the cause it champions. Fans will see Cardi B step in as a headliner, taking the slot originally held by The Weeknd, alongside Shakira, Rosé of BLACKPINK (in a special appearance), Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, and Elyanna. Each artist brings their own energy, culture, and global fanbase, making the event a true reflection of international unity.

Guiding the evening is none other than Hugh Jackman, returning for his 11th year as host. He’ll be joined by an all-star roster of presenters and speakers including Bill Nye, Adam Lambert, Danai Gurira, Kristen Bell, Liza Koshy, Tony Goldwyn, Nate Burleson, Vladimir Duthiers, and Laurie Henderson. Their presence adds weight to the message: music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a platform for real-world change.

For those lucky enough to attend in person, most tickets were earned through the Global Citizen app. By signing petitions, sharing campaigns, and taking small but meaningful actions, fans collected points that could be redeemed for ticket drawings. The final draw closed September 25, but general admission tickets are still available for purchase. It’s a model that proves activism and music can go hand in hand, rewarding everyday citizens for using their voices.

If you can’t make it to Central Park, the experience comes directly to you. Global live streams begin at 2 p.m. EDT on September 27 across YouTube, Apple Music, Amazon Music En Vivo, iHeartRadio, ViX, Veeps, and the Global Citizen app and website. Whether you’re at home, at a watch party, or on the go, you’ll be able to soak up every note and every call to action.

The festival is about more than a concert—it’s about driving change on issues like ending extreme poverty, combating climate change, and advancing human rights. Fans earned their way in by taking simple steps such as signing petitions, sending tweets to world leaders, and completing multi-day “Journeys” that deepen engagement and knowledge. Those actions add up, creating collective pressure that Global Citizen leverages to push for real policy shifts worldwide.

The platform’s points system turns activism into an interactive experience. Each action earns points, which can then be traded for chances to win festival tickets. Frequent participants unlock higher-level rewards—Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers that come with bonus perks and exclusive opportunities. It’s a system that proves activism can be both impactful and rewarding.

The Global Citizen Festival has always been about more than who’s on stage. It’s about what happens after the lights go down. By merging some of the biggest names in music with critical global conversations, the event leaves audiences not only entertained but also motivated to keep pushing for change.

And after the festival? Keep the spirit alive with JamFest’s Festival Radio Show. Every Thursday night is Festival Night, streaming over eight hours of nonstop live music from legendary festivals around the world. It’s the perfect way to relive those magical nights and discover sets from the festivals you’ve loved and attended throughout the years.

This weekend, New York City becomes the epicenter of music and activism, where beats and voices combine to amplify the call for a better world. Whether you’re in Central Park or watching from your living room, the 2025 Global Citizen Festival is a reminder that when music and action come together, the impact can echo far beyond the stage.