Join Leslie Lee, Executive Director of the Jimmie Rodgers Foundation Festival and Museum, as she kicks off the 71st annual festival with a captivating conversation with musician and songwriter Paul Burch. Dive into the rich legacy of Jimmie Rodgers, explore Burch's unique musical journey, and discover the inspirations behind his album "Meridian Rising" and his upcoming novel. This episode offers a deep dive into the enduring impact of Jimmie Rodgers' music, featuring anecdotes, historical insights, and a celebration of creativity rooted in Meridian, Mississippi.

Dive into the rhythm of the blues with our latest episode, "Unraveling the Legacy of Blues: Tony Pasko's Story". Join us as we journey through Tony's music career from his early days in Chicago to his international success.  

From his time with Hartley Peavey of Peavey Electronics, his record deal with 80s rock band Warrant, to his music featuring in popular TV shows like Duck Dynasty and Shark Week  , we uncover the layers of Tony's rich and vibrant musical journey. 

But wait, there's more! Get a sneak peek into Tony's current project, "Tony's Backstage Pass" and his upcoming lifestyle podcast!  This episode is not just a story, it's a melodic adventure that promises to leave you humming for more! 🎶

Our special guest, Adam Box, joins us for an intimate conversation that uncovers the magic behind his mesmerizing drumming with Brothers Osborne. From jam sessions in Mississippi's music scene to the bright lights of Nashville, Adam's path is filled with fascinating stories and deep connections to his hometown's music culture. Tune in as we explore the essence of country grooves and the impact of Meridian's rich musical heritage on Adam's journey.

"There's no rules when it comes to art - it's what you want to do."

That quote helps paint a picture of our conversation with the incredible songwriter Paul Thorn. Join us for this episode as Leslie Lee delves into musician Paul Thorn's deeply rooted Mississippi upbringing, where the collision of country western and rhythm and blues influences shaped his music, while he navigates the changing landscape of the music industry and grapples with the challenge of capturing listeners in an oversaturated digital era. Paul's relatable lyrics and soul-touching melodies not only make for unforgettable tunes but also establish him as an artist that pushes boundaries - a trait evident in his exploration of visual art, that includes creating collages from things he finds on his travels. You won't want to miss this episode!

The history of the Blues in Mississippi is rich, and there are no two better people to take us through it than Burgin Mathews and Scott Barretta. Burgin joins us from the Southern Music Research Center and Scott is an author and music historian. Listen to this exclusive episode recorded live from the Jimmie Rodgers Festival during music history night.

Patrick Sansone grew up in Meridian, Mississippi, watching legends like Gladys Knight, Barbara Mandrell, and Ray Charles captivate audiences at the Temple Theatre. He became a legend in his own right as a member of the band Wilco. Listen in as we talk through Patrick's beginnings in Meridian and what he's working on now with his bands Wilco and Autumn Defense.

Todd Tilghman was the winner of Season 18 of The Voice, and is proud of his Meridian roots. Listen in as Todd sits down with Leslie and Ken to talk about his experience on The Voice, his early life in Meridian as a pastor’s kid, and his song Home Wasn’t Built in a Day.

You can listen to that song and the rest of Todd’s music on your favorite streaming platform. And you can find out more about the Jimmie Rodgers Festival and Foundation at https://www.jimmierodgers.com