Sierra Ferrell delivered a spellbinding performance at the 2021 XPoNential Music Festival, captivating fans with her unique blend of Americana, bluegrass
Source: Sierra Ferrell Shines with Full Set at XPoNential Music Festival 2021
Tonight on JamFest: What is Hip?! Radio Show — Spotlight on New Orleans Jazz and the Latest Local Music Scene
New Orleans, Louisiana—universally celebrated as the birthplace of jazz—is the focal point of tonight’s What is Hip?! Radio Show on JamFest. From the earliest strains of Dixieland jazz, often called traditional jazz or “New Orleans jazz,” to the modern sounds keeping the city’s music legacy alive today, New Orleans has always been a city where music breathes in every street, corner, and stage.
Tonight, JamFest takes you straight into the heart of the Crescent City’s vibrant scene, blending history, culture, and live sound in a way only What is Hip?! Radio Show can deliver. Every performance featured on JamFest is live, capturing the spontaneity, passion, and energy that defines New Orleans music. From jazz standards to contemporary grooves, listeners experience the authentic sound of the city without compromise.
Major Upcoming Event: Rockin’ 1000 Comes to New Orleans
The excitement in New Orleans is building for the U.S. debut of Rockin’ 1000 on January 31, 2026, at the Caesars Superdome. Known worldwide for assembling 1,000 musicians to play in perfect synchrony, Rockin’ 1000 promises a massive, unmissable spectacle. New Orleans, with its rich musical heritage, is the perfect city for this monumental event, merging community spirit with the raw, live energy that JamFest celebrates.
Funding Crisis Hits Local Musicians
Despite its thriving music scene, New Orleans artists are facing challenges offstage. A city budget crisis has temporarily paused grants from the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy and the City Council’s Recreation and Culture Fund, impacting numerous musicians, artists, and cultural non-profits.
Organizations affected include:
- Ellis Marsalis Center for Music – A cornerstone of Musicians’ Village, nurturing generations of jazz talent.
- Cafe Reconcile – A youth-focused workforce training program blending music and social empowerment.
- UnCommon Construction – Supporting young apprentices while preserving cultural traditions.
While individual grant recipients have not been publicly named, the pause is already creating uncertainty across the city’s creative community, highlighting the delicate balance of culture and funding in a city synonymous with music.
Album Releases and Tributes
The Crescent City’s music scene continues to honor its legends:
- Clap Hands – Friends and collaborators of the late drummer, singer, and songwriter Carlo Nuccio have completed his final album. A free, all-ages listening party and celebration is scheduled for Sunday, November 16, at The Broadside Pavilion.
- Tribute Concert at Tipitina’s – Honoring Art Neville and Eddie Bo, this one-night-only concert benefits the Musicians’ Clinic, ensuring the legacy of these New Orleans icons lives on.
These events underscore the city’s deep respect for its musical pioneers while keeping the scene vibrant and connected.
Live Music Highlights: November 13–19, 2025
New Orleans is alive with music this week. Notable live performances include:
- Acid Bath – South Louisiana’s revived sludge rock band headlines at UNO Lakefront Arena on Saturday, November 15, after a 28-year hiatus.
- Andy Bell of Erasure – One-half of the British synth-pop duo brings his solo Ten Crowns tour to the Orpheum Theater, blending electronic pop with live energy.
- Jazz Nights at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro – Including the Jason Marsalis & Victor Goines Quintet and Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, delivering the signature improvisation and spontaneity of New Orleans jazz.
Every performance embodies JamFest’s mission: live music, raw and unfiltered, connecting artists and audiences in real time.
New Venue Spotlight: The Barnett – JDV by Hyatt
The Warehouse District welcomes the newly reopened Barnett – JDV by Hyatt, formerly the Ace Hotel. This 4-star venue features refreshed dining and live music spaces, providing a fresh hub for performances and nightlife in New Orleans. Its reopening reflects the city’s resilience and dedication to keeping its music culture thriving.
Tune in Tonight: What is Hip?! Radio Show
Tonight’s What is Hip?! Radio Show celebrates New Orleans’ unparalleled jazz legacy while spotlighting the latest news, concerts, and tributes from the city. JamFest listeners will experience the magic of live performances, just as New Orleans musicians intend it—spontaneous, vibrant, and full of soul.
Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a rock enthusiast, or a fan of live musical energy, JamFest delivers New Orleans to your ears, bringing the streets, clubs, and concert halls of the Crescent City directly to your home.
Stream What is Hip?! Radio Show tonight on JamFest — because in New Orleans, the music is always live, always authentic, and always unforgettable.
JamFest Spotlight on The NRN Radio Show as Brandi Carlile Returns with Soul-Stirring Album Returning to Myself Tonight
Brandi Carlile, one of modern music’s most compelling voices, is back with an album that fans and critics alike are calling a triumph. Returning to Myself, released on October 24, 2025 via Interscope Records and Lost Highway, is a deeply personal work that revisits the singer-songwriter foundations that first brought Carlile to prominence while exploring new emotional and musical terrains. Tonight, listeners have the chance to dive into her latest work during the NRN Radio Show segment Unveiling the Enchantment: A Very Special Handpicked New Release by Your Favorite Music Artist, highlighting selected tracks and behind-the-scenes insights from Carlile herself.
Critical Acclaim: A Universal Consensus
Returning to Myself has garnered overwhelming praise, achieving a Metascore of 82 from seven professional reviews. Every critic surveyed praised the album, a rare feat that underscores its resonance across diverse audiences.
Variety describes the work as a “singer/songwriter record in the classic sense,” highlighting its intimate, transformative qualities reminiscent of 1970s LPs, where each note and lyric invites listeners to slow down and experience moments of reflection. Paste Magazine emphasizes Carlile’s vulnerability and emotional honesty, noting how the album communicates profound feelings without tipping into melodrama. Glide Magazine lauds the record as “beautifully and articulately rendered,” celebrating Carlile’s comfort in experimenting with new musical directions while staying unmistakably herself.
Classic Rock Magazine and Mojo praised the album’s stylistic diversity, from the poignant storytelling of A Long Goodbye to the dramatic energy of Church & State and the angelic harmonies of You Without Me and Joni. Rolling Stone notes that the album shines brightest when Carlile is fully immersed in introspective storytelling, and AllMusic highlights its understated elegance, confirming Carlile’s enduring gift as a communicator who blends technical mastery with heartfelt emotion.
Themes of Resilience and Self-Discovery
Thematically, Returning to Myself reflects Carlile’s journey of reflection, growth, and self-expression. After a four-year gap since 2021’s In These Silent Days, the singer returns to the studio with fresh experiences and perspectives, translating them into songs that are at once deeply personal and universally relatable. Tracks like the contemplative You Without Me and the country-inflected narrative of No One Knows Us explore life, love, loss, and resilience with nuanced lyricism and emotional depth.
Musically, Carlile fuses acoustic folk, soft rock, and subtle country influences, complemented by layered harmonies and meticulously crafted instrumentation. Longtime fans will recognize familiar touches of Carlile’s earlier sound, while also discovering new stylistic ventures, including nods to iconic influences like Joni Mitchell, adding historical and emotional richness to the album.
Fan Reception and Standout Tracks
Fans have responded enthusiastically to Returning to Myself, echoing the critical consensus. The album’s sincerity, vocal dynamism, and emotional transparency have resonated strongly with audiences. Standout tracks include Church & State, You Without Me, and the title track Returning to Myself, which serves as the emotional and philosophical centerpiece of the album.
Whether you’re a lifelong follower of Carlile’s work or discovering her for the first time, Returning to Myself offers a thoughtful, soul-stirring experience. Its blend of introspection, resilience, and artistic growth cements Carlile’s position as one of her generation’s most authentic and compelling voices.
Tune in to NRN Radio Show Tonight
Tonight’s NRN Radio Show presents Unveiling the Enchantment: A Very Special Handpicked New Release by Your Favorite Music Artist, featuring Returning to Myself. Listeners can explore selected tracks, hear Carlile’s personal reflections on the album, and gain a rare glimpse into the stories and inspirations behind one of 2025’s most celebrated releases.
With Returning to Myself, Brandi Carlile proves once again that she is a master of emotional storytelling, musical sophistication, and authentic artistry. Fans and newcomers alike are invited to experience the album tonight on NRN Radio Show and witness why critics are hailing it as a universally acclaimed addition to Carlile’s distinguished career.
For full coverage, interviews, and in-depth analysis of Brandi Carlile’s latest work, visit JamFest.
Billy Strings Ignites Asbury Park Tonight on JamFest, A Legendary Night at The Stone Pony Returns to the Airwaves on Live Nuggets Tonight
Tonight at 9PM EST, Live Nuggets Radio dives deep into one of the most unforgettable nights in modern jamgrass history — Billy Strings, live from The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ, recorded on November 10, 2019. This week’s Live Nuggets broadcast is a full-length, handpicked performance aired in its entirety — a sonic time capsule of raw talent, improvisational mastery, and pure musical electricity.
Few venues embody the spirit of live music like The Stone Pony. Nestled on the Asbury Park boardwalk, it’s a place where legends are born and sounds ripple through generations. On that cool November night in 2019, the Pony became a cathedral of strings, rhythm, and energy as Billy Strings and his band unleashed a performance that bridged the traditional soul of bluegrass with the fearless exploration of jam-rock.
The show opens with Away From the Mire, a sprawling journey of emotion and melody that sets the tone for the night. From there, the setlist is a masterclass in dynamics — Turmoil & Tinfoil, Fireline, and Meet Me at the Creek deliver blistering tempos and soaring solos that had the crowd spinning in a trance of rhythm. The instrumental interplay showcased Billy’s uncanny ability to shift between precision and chaos, between tradition and innovation.
As the night unfolded, the audience was treated to the full spectrum of Strings’ artistry — from the reflective beauty of Love and Regret to the storytelling elegance of Watch It Fall and In the Morning Light. Each song bled seamlessly into the next, weaving together moments of delicate stillness with explosive bursts of jam-fueled improvisation. The chemistry between band and crowd was palpable, a feedback loop of energy that made this Asbury performance feel more like a shared experience than a concert.
The encore sealed the night’s legend. Rocket City took flight with joyous momentum before the band dove headfirst into an extended “Turmoil Jam”, a 15-minute improvisational odyssey that pushed every boundary of bluegrass form. It was the kind of finale that made jaws drop and hearts race — the essence of live music distilled into pure, unfiltered expression.
Fans often cite this Stone Pony show as one of the defining moments of Billy Strings’ early touring years — a turning point where his name began to resonate beyond bluegrass circles and into the wider world of jam and rock audiences. Tonight’s Live Nuggets broadcast gives listeners a front-row seat to that pivotal moment, capturing not just a performance, but a movement in motion.
Every Tuesday night, Live Nuggets Radio delivers something special — a complete, handpicked live concert from the archives of the world’s best musicians. Each week’s show celebrates the art of live performance, the unpredictability of improvisation, and the communities that form around it. But tonight’s feature is especially significant, bringing Billy Strings’ Stone Pony triumph back to life for fans old and new.
Tune in to Live Nuggets tonight at 9PM EST to relive this unforgettable evening of bluegrass brilliance and Asbury Park magic. Close your eyes, turn up the volume, and let Billy Strings transport you back to that November night when The Stone Pony shook with the future of Americana.
For more upcoming live features, artist news, and jam scene updates, visit JamFest — your home for everything live, loud, and unforgettable. Billy Strings – Two Nights of Bluegrass Brilliance – at The Pru in New Jersey is this week!
JamFest Tonight on the All Things Considered Live Radio Show is Harry Connick Jr. at the Newport Jazz Festival from October 12, 2004
If you love live music, hidden gems and high‑energy performances, tonight’s edition of the All Things Considered Live program is an absolute must. This week we’re diving into the spectacular world of live recordings from across the country—featuring cuts from the Newport Folk Festival, SXSW (South by Southwest), the iconic 9:30 Club in Washington, DC, and many more.
🎶 Why This Show Matters
Thanks to the partnership of NPR Music, you’ll hear exclusive live performances and recordings captured at legendary venues and festivals. These aren’t just studio takes—they’re sweaty, raw, in‑the‑moment musical journeys. You’ll experience the crowd, the ambience, the tension of live artistry.
- Discover new favorites before they blow up.
- Relive unforgettable festival moments you may have missed.
- Enjoy premium sound and intimate performances—right from home.
Tonight’s Feature: Harry Connick Jr. at the Newport Jazz Festival (October 12, 2004)
Tonight we’re rolling back the clock to one of jazz’s memorable live sets: Harry Connick Jr.’s performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in 2004, recorded live in Newport, Rhode Island.
- From the first chords of “The Other Hours”, Connick commands the stage with his smooth vocals and precise piano.
- He glides through the swing‑era flavour of “What a Waste,” the quirky storytelling of “Oh, My Dear (Someone’s Gone Wrong),” and the frenetic funk of “Do Dat Thing.”
- The closer, “Take Advantage,” seals a set that balances classic jazz traditions with modern sensibilities, all delivered with his signature charm.
If you’ve never witnessed Harry Connick Jr. live in this setting, tonight’s show offers the perfect opportunity—it’s a front‑row seat to history.
What Makes It Special for JAMFest Readers
Here at JAMFest, we chronicle the culture of live performance, from festivals and showcases to underground gigs and major venues. This edition of All Things Considered Live intersects perfectly with our mission:
- Long‑form music journalism meets the live‑show experience.
- We link the big festivals (Folk, Jazz, SXSW) with smaller venues (9:30 Club) that feed the live‑music ecosystem.
- It’s about the thrill of discovery, the shared memory of a live event—and tonight you don’t need a ticket or crowds.
Tune In & What to Look For
- Listen for the dynamic interplay between Connick and his band—especially how they pivot from swing rhythms to full‑on improvisation.
- Notice the atmospheric commentary: Newport’s coastal breeze, the festival audience, the stage lights—all captured in audio.
- Reflect on how a live set like this still resonates—almost two decades later—because the energy is timeless.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re a jazz purist or simply love great live music, tonight’s show is for you. It’s a reminder that the essence of performance isn’t just the song—it’s the moment, the audience, the live transmission of art. At JAMFest, we believe that vibe matters—and tonight, it’s coming into your living room.
Don’t miss it. Turn on All Things Considered Live, press play, and let the music take you to Newport 2004—even if only for an hour.
Global Music Festivals Gear Up for 2026 as 2025 Wraps with Exciting Events & The Festival Radio Radio Show on TuneIn & JamFest
The world of live music continues to pulse with energy as festival organizers unveil major lineups, date changes, and locations for the upcoming seasons. Fans are already marking their calendars for 2026, while the final months of 2025 offer a packed schedule of global music events. Whether you’re chasing the desert sun in California or the immersive stages of the UK, the festival scene is alive and vibrant.
2026 Festival Lineups and Dates to Watch
Some of the world’s biggest festivals have announced their next editions, bringing a mix of blockbuster headliners and exciting new acts:
- Coachella (Indio, California, USA): Slated for April 10–12 and April 17–19, 2026, Coachella continues to draw massive crowds with a diverse lineup. Early announcements suggest Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Anyma, and Karol G will headline, while fans can look forward to a 20th-anniversary reunion of K-pop sensation BIGBANG, a performance sure to make waves across social media.
- Download Festival (UK): Rock and metal fans are in for a treat with Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit, and Guns N’ Roses topping the bill for 2026, promising a high-octane weekend of guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and nostalgic anthems.
- TRNSMT Festival (Glasgow, Scotland): The festival has shifted its dates earlier in June 2026, giving fans more summer vibes and longer evenings of music along the banks of the River Clyde.
- Pa’l Norte (Monterrey, Mexico): This festival’s 2026 edition will feature Guns N’ Roses, Tyler, The Creator, The Killers, and Deftones, offering a cross-genre experience for attendees from across North and South America.
- Boomtown Fair (UK): Known for its immersive, theatrical environments, Boomtown has revealed its first wave of acts for 2026, including Skrillex, Scissor Sisters, and Madness, bringing dance, electronic, and punk-infused performances into its unique narrative-driven festival world.
- Latitude Festival (UK): Celebrating its 20th year, Latitude promises David Byrne, Teddy Swims, and Lewis Capaldi, blending indie, pop, and soul into a weekend of music, art, and culture.
- The Innings Festival 2026, featuring headliners Blink-182 and Twenty One Pilots, will take place in Tempe, Arizona, from February 20-22, 2026. Tickets are available now, with options ranging from single-day to multi-day platinum passes.
Dates and Location
Dates: February 20–22, 2026
Location: Tempe Beach Park & Arts Park, Tempe, Arizona
Note: The festival is expanding to three days for the first time since 2018 and coincides with Major League Baseball Spring Training.
Lineup Highlights
The festival features over 25 artists across three stages with no overlapping sets.
Friday, Feb. 20: Mumford & Sons (headliner), Goo Goo Dolls, Myles Smith, Grouplove, OK Go, Public Enemy, and more.
Saturday, Feb. 21: Twenty One Pilots (headliner), Cage The Elephant, Lord Huron, The Fray, Dashboard Confessional, Silversun Pickups, and more.
Sunday, Feb. 22: Blink-182 (headliner), Sublime, Public Enemy, Big Boi, Switchfoot, Bowling For Soup, and more.
In addition to the music, the festival includes baseball-themed activities and appearances by MLB legends like Torii Hunter, Brandon Crawford, and Jessica Mendoza.
Trends and Changes in the Festival Landscape
The festival world has not been without challenges. Several 2025 events, including Asuncionico, Paradise Blue, and Rolling Loud Europe, have been canceled, a shift partly driven by rising ticket prices and evolving fan priorities. Meanwhile, some festivals are seeking fresh beginnings: WOMAD, the celebrated world music festival, will relocate to Neston Park in Wiltshire for 2026, promising new scenery and experiences for attendees.
November 2025 is not slowing down, with standout events including Iceland Airwaves in Reykjavik, Freakout Festival in Seattle, and EDC Orlando, ensuring music lovers have plenty of opportunities to catch live performances before the year’s end. On November 6, fans can dive into Freakout 2025 in Seattle or head to the UK for Hard Rock Hell 2025 in Great Yarmouth, each festival offering unique lineups and immersive experiences.
Festival Radio: Nonstop Celebration of Music Festivals
For those craving festival vibes from the comfort of home, TuneIn to the Festival Radio Radio Show, airing every Thursday night. From 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., the show delivers over 8 hours of nonstop music exclusively from popular festivals around the world. Relive the moments, memories, and magic of the festivals you attended—or discover new favorites—through a continuous live mix that keeps the spirit of the stage alive all night long.
As music fans look ahead to 2026, it’s clear that the global festival circuit remains a cornerstone of live music culture. With massive headliners, innovative new stages, and a thriving radio experience keeping fans connected year-round, the pulse of the festival season continues to beat strong.
For more on global music festivals, updates, and insider coverage of upcoming events, visit Explore New Jersey Music and stay ahead of the festival curve.
NRN Radio Tonight: The Black Keys Bloom Again with No Rain, No Flowers — A Bold, Soulful Return to Form
There’s something magical about the way The Black Keys keep finding new ways to evolve without losing what makes them timeless. Their latest album, No Rain, No Flowers, the thirteenth studio release from the iconic rock duo, is a stunning reminder that resilience and rebirth can be heard just as much as they can be felt. Released through Easy Eye Sound and Warner Records, the project sees Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney diving deep into their roots while expanding their sound with new textures, richer storytelling, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The title alone — No Rain, No Flowers — perfectly captures the essence of the record: growth through struggle, beauty through pain. From the first riff to the final fade-out, the album pulses with an emotional honesty that feels both raw and revitalizing. It’s unmistakably The Black Keys, but it’s also something new — warmer, wiser, and more cinematic in tone.
Auerbach’s signature guitar work feels like a conversation with his past, echoing early garage-blues energy while embracing soulful melodies that shimmer with introspection. Carney’s drumming, always precise and powerful, anchors each track with a heartbeat that feels human — not mechanical. Together, they’ve created a collection of songs that move between the grit of Brothers and the layered, expansive soundscapes of Turn Blue, yet with a maturity that can only come from two decades in the game.
Lyrically, No Rain, No Flowers dives into the realities of endurance — the kind of weathered wisdom that only comes from surviving the storms. There’s vulnerability here, but it’s wrapped in the kind of swagger that has always defined The Black Keys’ sound. The songs are less about heartbreak and more about reflection, less about rebellion and more about evolution.
Fans will find plenty to love: tight hooks, groovy basslines, and the unmistakable fuzzed-out blues rock that first put the band on the map. But what makes this album stand out is its emotional center — the sense that Auerbach and Carney aren’t just playing for the crowd anymore; they’re playing for themselves, rediscovering what makes them fall in love with music all over again.
In a year filled with big releases and fleeting viral hits, No Rain, No Flowers stands out as something rare: a rock album with staying power, substance, and soul. It’s a reminder that even in an age of streaming algorithms and digital noise, authentic musicianship and honest storytelling still matter.
And to make the experience even more special, tonight’s episode of NRN Radio Show will feature a very special listening session — Unveiling the Enchantment: A Very Special Handpicked New Release by Your Favorite Music Artist, spotlighting The Black Keys’ No Rain, No Flowers. Tune in to hear exclusive commentary, behind-the-scenes insights, and select cuts from the album that showcase why this record is already being hailed as one of their best in years.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer discovering The Black Keys for the first time, No Rain, No Flowers is an album that demands to be heard — loud, live, and without interruption. It’s the sound of two artists still pushing boundaries, still chasing inspiration, and still proving that rock ’n’ roll can bloom even after the rain.
Stay tuned for more music coverage, exclusive artist features, and live performance highlights here at JamFest, where we keep you connected to the pulse of modern music.
Stevie Ray Vaughan Ignites Montreux 1985 — A Night of Raw Blues Power is the Live Nuggets on JamFest Tonight!
This week on Live Nuggets, JamFest invites you to turn up your speakers and step into one of the most electrifying moments in blues history — Stevie Ray Vaughan: Live at Montreux 1985.
Airing tonight at 9PM EST, this full-concert broadcast on Live Nuggets Radio is a rare chance to relive a performance that not only defined an era but also cemented Stevie Ray Vaughan’s place among the greatest guitarists to ever plug in and play.
Carefully curated and handpicked by DJ Don Edwards, this episode brings listeners an unfiltered dose of pure blues fire — the sound of an artist on the edge of global fame and at the peak of his musical powers. Recorded live at the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland, Vaughan’s 1985 appearance was nothing short of explosive. Two years earlier, he’d stunned audiences at the same festival, dividing the crowd with his unrelenting intensity and volume. By 1985, the world had caught up — and this return to Montreux was his triumphant redemption.
From the opening lick of Scuttle Buttin’ to the final soulful notes of Life Without You, the set is a masterclass in modern electric blues. Vaughan’s tone was molten, his phrasing bold and emotional, his band — Double Trouble — locked in with razor-sharp precision. This wasn’t just another gig; it was the sound of a young Texas guitarist channeling every ounce of his soul through his Stratocaster.
The setlist reads like a crash course in Vaughan’s world: Pride and Joy, Texas Flood, Cold Shot, Couldn’t Stand the Weather — each song a staple of blues-rock history, played with passion and precision that only Stevie could deliver. The night’s performance also includes blistering renditions of Mary Had a Little Lamb and Voodoo Child (Slight Return), where Vaughan pays homage to Jimi Hendrix with his own unrestrained flair. Then there’s Tin Pan Alley, stretched into a smoldering, slow-burn blues epic — the kind of song that makes time stand still.
But the real magic comes in the quieter, emotional moments. Lenny and Life Without You, Vaughan’s encore numbers, close the night with a tenderness that reveals the heart behind the fire. His playing in these songs feels personal — like letters written in melody — and captures the spiritual dimension that made Stevie Ray Vaughan more than a guitar hero; he was a conduit for something deeper.
This 1985 Montreux performance marked a major milestone for Vaughan’s career. By then, he had already released Texas Flood and Couldn’t Stand the Weather, albums that reshaped the modern blues landscape. But it was his ability to dominate a live stage — night after night, note after note — that set him apart. His Montreux return silenced any lingering critics from his earlier appearance and won over the international crowd with raw emotion and staggering musicianship.
Each Live Nuggets broadcast is more than a concert replay — it’s a living, breathing tribute to the greatest moments in live music history. And this week’s feature, Stevie Ray Vaughan Live at Montreux 1985, stands as one of the series’ most powerful entries to date. The show captures the essence of what makes live music so timeless — the sweat, the soul, the imperfection, and the magic that happens when an artist and an audience connect.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Stevie Ray Vaughan for the first time, don’t miss tonight’s broadcast. Pour a drink, dim the lights, and prepare for an hour and a half of blues heaven as JamFest’s Live Nuggets takes you straight to the shores of Lake Geneva for one of the most unforgettable performances ever captured on stage.
🎸 Tune in tonight at 9PM EST for Live Nuggets: Stevie Ray Vaughan Live at Montreux 1985 — only on JamFest Radio. One full concert. One legend. One night of pure, unfiltered electric blues.
Today on JamFest: Sierra Ferrell’s Spellbinding XPoNential Set Lights Up the All Things Considered Live Radio Show
In the vast landscape of American roots music, few voices rise above the noise with the authenticity and fire of Sierra Ferrell. Her unmistakable sound—equal parts Americana, folk, and bluegrass—transcends genre lines and time itself. This week, JamFest shines a well-deserved spotlight on Ferrell’s remarkable 2021 XPoNential Music Festival performance, a set that captured the magic of live music on the Camden Waterfront in New Jersey.
And tonight, fans can relive every moment of that unforgettable show on NPR’s All Things Considered Live Radio Show—a weekly celebration of live music that brings festival performances, NPR showcases, and iconic venue recordings to the airwaves with the intimacy and power only live radio can deliver.
The All Things Considered Live Radio Show: NPR’s Pulse of the Live Music Scene
Broadcasting nationwide, The All Things Considered Live Radio Show is a love letter to live performance. Each week, the program dives into the vibrant world of NPR-driven artists, festivals, and showcases, spotlighting handpicked performances that define the best in contemporary music.
From the smoky allure of Americana to the cutting edge of indie rock and jazz, this show bridges the gap between festival stages and living rooms, bringing listeners the heartbeat of the live scene. Tonight’s episode is a special treat for roots music fans—a full rebroadcast of Sierra Ferrell’s XPoNential Music Festival 2021 set, recorded live at Wiggins Park on the Camden Waterfront.
Sierra Ferrell at XPoNential 2021: A Modern Folk Revival on the Waterfront
When Sierra Ferrell took the stage in September 2021, the crowd at Wiggins Park knew they were witnessing something extraordinary. The XPoNential Music Festival, presented by Philadelphia’s WXPN, has long been known for its immaculate sound, riverfront setting, and an audience that genuinely listens. Ferrell gave them more than a show—she gave them a moment.
Her voice—warm yet ghostly, rich with character and emotional nuance—floated across the Delaware River as she launched into a setlist that showcased her remarkable versatility. From the heartbreak of “Jeremiah” to the playful swagger of “Cheap Wine & Cigarettes,” Ferrell blended vintage country melancholy with gypsy swing, Appalachian storytelling, and timeless charm.
What set this performance apart wasn’t just her sound—it was her presence. Ferrell’s charisma on stage is radiant yet effortless. Between songs, she laughed with the audience, shared snippets of her journey, and played with a confidence that can only come from an artist deeply connected to her craft.
Her band, equally sharp and soulful, followed her every cue, transforming each song into a living, breathing jam. As the sun dipped over Camden, the festival crowd swayed, danced, and sang along, fully enveloped in the sound of a performer at the peak of her artistry.
A Performance That Defined a Moment
The 2021 edition of the XPoNential Music Festival marked a triumphant return to live music after a year of pandemic silence. Sierra Ferrell’s set became symbolic of that return—a joyous reminder of what it means to gather again, to feel again, to be moved by sound and story in the same space.
Her performance resonated far beyond New Jersey. Fans from across the country who discovered her through NPR Music’s coverage found a voice that felt both familiar and revolutionary—rooted in the old, yet reaching for the new. Ferrell represents a new era of Americana, one that’s less about revivalism and more about reimagining tradition.
Tonight: Relive Sierra Ferrell’s XPoNential Set on All Things Considered Live
Tonight’s All Things Considered Live Radio Show gives listeners a front-row seat to that magical night in Camden. Every song, every note, every banjo riff and fiddle cry is preserved in stunning clarity. The show captures not only the music but the atmosphere—the buzz of the crowd, the wind off the waterfront, and the unmistakable sense that something special was unfolding on stage.
Listeners can tune in to hear the full set, including favorites like:
- “In Dreams”
- “Jeremiah”
- “The Sea”
- “Made Like That”
- “Why’d Ya Do It”
- “Cheap Wine & Cigarettes”
Each performance radiates Sierra Ferrell’s free-spirited energy, weaving storytelling, humor, and heart into an unforgettable live experience.
XPoNential Music Festival: New Jersey’s Home for Live Discovery
For over two decades, the XPoNential Music Festival has been a beacon for true music lovers—fans who value authenticity, songwriting, and performance over flash. Its waterfront setting, across from the Philadelphia skyline, makes it one of the most scenic and musically rich festivals on the East Coast.
Year after year, XPoNential has hosted a blend of rising stars and iconic acts, offering an unmatched atmosphere for artists to connect with dedicated audiences. It’s not just a festival; it’s a community that celebrates the live music experience in its purest form.
Sierra Ferrell’s 2021 appearance exemplified everything the festival stands for: musical exploration, intimacy, and that rare spark between artist and audience that can’t be manufactured or streamed.
Why Live Music Still Matters
In an age of digital everything, performances like Ferrell’s remind us why live music remains sacred. It’s about presence. It’s about connection. It’s about being in a space where the song isn’t just heard—it’s felt.
JamFest was built on that philosophy. From New Jersey’s vibrant local venues to the country’s biggest festivals, we celebrate the artists, moments, and communities that keep live music alive.
When Sierra Ferrell steps onto a stage, she brings more than songs—she brings stories, spirits, and an unfiltered honesty that binds artist to audience. And tonight, thanks to NPR and The All Things Considered Live Radio Show, fans everywhere can experience that alchemy once again.
Tune In, Turn Up, and Feel It
So, wherever you are tonight—whether you’re cooking dinner, driving through the city, or just craving the sound of something real—tune in to The All Things Considered Live Radio Show and immerse yourself in Sierra Ferrell’s unforgettable XPoNential Music Festival performance.
Let her voice transport you back to that September night on the Camden Waterfront. Let the music remind you why live performances will always matter.
Because here at JamFest, we know one truth better than anyone else: live music isn’t just an event—it’s an experience, a connection, and a celebration of sound that never fades.
Project Reggaeologist on JamFest Remembers The Lost Show I Never Got To Attend — Bob Marley’s Cancelled Philadelphia Concert and the Legacy That Lives On
Tonight on Project Reggaeologist Radio Show, tune in for Non-Stop Reggae, Dancehall, Roots, World, and Ska, plus incredible performances from the greatest Reggae and World Music Festivals across the globe! Hear the legends — Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear — alongside the next wave of reggae stars keeping the fire alive. It’s a celebration of rhythm, resistance, and roots on JamFest’s Project Reggaeologist Radio Show.
A Ticket to History — and the Show That Never Happened
I still remember holding that ticket — the one for Bob Marley & The Wailers’ Philadelphia concert, scheduled for September 24, 1980, at the Irvine Auditorium on the University of Pennsylvania campus. The excitement, the anticipation — it was going to be the night of a lifetime.
But the show never happened.
Just one day earlier, Bob Marley performed what would unknowingly become his final live concert — on September 23, 1980, at the Stanley Theatre in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (now the Benedum Center). It was a night that would go down in history as his last, a performance filled with soul, struggle, and the purest expression of love through music.
The Philadelphia show was cancelled the next day, marking the sudden and heartbreaking end of Marley’s final tour.
I also remember turning back my ticket to Woolworths to get my $14 refunded. I wish i had that ticket stub today.
The Final Performance — Pittsburgh, 1980
That night in Pittsburgh, Marley performed through unbearable pain. Despite doctors warning him not to go on, he took the stage for a 90-minute set that opened with “Natural Mystic” and ended with “Get Up, Stand Up.” Every note carried the weight of his fight — against illness, against time, and for the music itself.
It was the sound of a man giving everything he had left to his audience — a final gift.
The Lost Show — Philadelphia’s Unwritten Chapter
The next stop was supposed to be Philadelphia, a sold-out night at the Irvine Auditorium. Fans were ready, the venue was buzzing, and for those of us holding tickets, it felt like we were on the edge of something sacred.
But by then, Marley’s body could no longer match his spirit. He had collapsed while jogging in Central Park just days earlier, and doctors had confirmed that his cancer — first diagnosed in 1977 — had spread to his brain and lungs. Despite his determination, he was forced to cancel the remainder of the tour, including Philadelphia.
The “lost show” became part of reggae folklore — a ghostly reminder of an artist who lived and died for the message in his music.
Aftermath and Legacy
Following the cancelled concert, Marley traveled to Germany in search of treatment, but the disease was too advanced. He passed away in May 1981, at just 36 years old.
That Philadelphia ticket remains a symbol — not of what didn’t happen, but of what could have been. It represents the spirit of millions who connected with Marley’s music and message. Even in silence, that moment echoes with One Love.
Project Reggaeologist — Keeping the Rhythm Alive
Here at JamFest, and through the Project Reggaeologist Radio Show, we keep that legacy alive every single week.
🎶 Non-Stop Reggae, Dancehall, Roots, World, and Ska
🌍 Live sets from reggae festivals worldwide
🔥 New and upcoming artists alongside the legends
💿 Classic studio versions and deep cuts from reggae’s golden age
It’s not just radio — it’s a movement. A living, breathing tribute to artists like Bob Marley who gave their all to the sound of freedom.
The Beat Goes On
That Philadelphia show may have never happened, but the spirit behind it — the anticipation, the unity, the shared heartbeat of reggae — continues to live on through the music.
Every chord, every drum hit, every voice raised in harmony across the world today still carries that same pulse.
Because Bob Marley didn’t just leave behind songs — he left behind a soul. And that soul plays on, every week, right here at JamFest and Project Reggaeologist Radio.
One Love. One World. One JamFest.