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For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
Cover StoryMar 6, 2024

Guitarist Cary Morin’s (Crow/Assiniboine) new album, Innocent Allies, includes a striking painting on its cover created by renowned Western painter/sculptor Charles M. Russell (1864-1926), who spent his formative years as an artist in Morin’s home state, Montana. Innocent Allies, Russell’s work, depicts horses, cowboys, and settlers, routine subjects for the visual artist. The piece references…

For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
Cover StoryFeb 21, 2024

With 23 years behind them, Blackberry Smoke are still one of the best examples of Southern rock in the modern era – but what does that even mean, right? Led by singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter Charlie Starr, the band does indeed have roots pointing straight to hard-driving ‘70s icons like Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Allman…

For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
Cover StoryJan 26, 2024

There's no group around who either looks or sounds like The Shindellas, a trio who've shown they can charm audiences in every setting – from a New Year's Eve party hosted by Nashville's top urban contemporary radio station, 92Q, to a Grand Ole Opry crowd on a Tuesday night. Kasi Jones, Tamara Chauniece, and Stacy…

For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
Cover StoryDec 20, 2023

One of the most stunning and enjoyable albums of 2023 was released in mid-November by Galax, Virginia-based singer-songwriter Dori Freeman. Entitled, Do You Recall, it's a vibrant and energetic collection of eleven original songs that also feel cozy and down home, like a back porch jam or guitar pull – there's a buzz in the air,…

For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
Cover StoryOct 18, 2023

Few bands have benefitted from the same type of steady, organic growth as the Hogslop String Band. Originally formed in 2009 as a pickup band for a square dance, the group played together for 10 years before releasing their first album. In that time, their camaraderie strengthened – as did their songwriting, performance style, and…

For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories
For the First Time, Willie Watson Uses Original Songs to Tell His Own Stories