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 projects

Stories from life on the road and behind the scenes in bluegrass music

A spotlight interview with the owner of The Lakehouse Inn

Thanks 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.

Episode 106 – Bluegrass on the Bluff Recap & Nathan Lynn of The Wheelhouse Rousters

On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim flies solo behind the microphone and looks back on the incredible success of the very first Bluegrass on the Bluff Festival held at beautiful Columbus-Belmont State Park in Columbus, Kentucky.

Tim shares stories from the day, highlights some of the outstanding performances, and reflects on the overwhelming support from music fans, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and everyone who helped make this inaugural event a success. From the scenic Mississippi River overlook to a full day of bluegrass music, the festival exceeded expectations and plans are already underway for an even bigger event in 2027.

Also on the show, Tim sits down with Nathan Lynn of The Wheelhouse Rousters, one of the featured bands at Bluegrass on the Bluff. Nathan talks about the band's performance, their unique style of bluegrass and Americana music, and what it was like being part of the first-ever festival. The conversation also dives into the band's history, influences, and what's ahead for The Wheelhouse Rousters.

It's a laid-back episode filled with festival memories, bluegrass conversation, and a look toward the future of one of Western Kentucky's newest music traditions.

Thanks for listening and for supporting bluegrass music!

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This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh and Tim welcome a very special guest, Dwight Whitley, brother of the legendary Keith Whitley.

Dwight shares personal stories and memories of what it was like growing up alongside one of country music's most beloved voices. From their early days in Eastern Kentucky to Keith's rise through the bluegrass world and eventually to country music stardom, Dwight offers a unique firsthand perspective that fans won't hear anywhere else.

The conversation also dives into Keith's deep love for bluegrass music, the instruments he treasured, and the story behind some of his prized guitars. Dwight reflects on Keith's musical influences, family life, and the legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians today.

As always, Josh picks a tune and joins Tim for another entertaining conversation celebrating the people and stories that make bluegrass and country music so special.

Whether you're a lifelong Keith Whitley fan or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from music history, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Listen now and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh sit down with the newest member of legendary bluegrass group Balsam Range, Stephen Hudson.

Stephen talks about joining one of bluegrass music’s most respected bands, stepping into the fiddle and vocal role, and what it’s been like becoming part of the Balsam Range family. The guys discuss Stephen’s musical roots, his love for traditional bluegrass music, and the excitement surrounding this new chapter in his career.

Josh and Tim also dive into the future of Balsam Range, life on the road, favorite songs, and the importance of keeping traditional bluegrass alive for the next generation.

If you’re a fan of hard-driving fiddle, great harmony singing, and real bluegrass conversation, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh hit the road with special guest Ami Ricci, creator of BluegrassRoadtrip.com. Ami shares the story behind her website, how it helps bluegrass fans discover festivals, venues, and events across the country, and why the bluegrass community continues to thrive through travel and live music.

Plus, Josh spins a great tune from Josh Turner that was written by our good buddy Shawn Camp. You’ll hear stories, laughs, and plenty of traditional bluegrass along the way.

In Episode #102, Tim sits down with Lindsay Bowles, Director of GRRO (The Great River Road Organization), for a conversation about history, tourism, community partnerships, and one of the region’s most exciting upcoming music events.

Tim and Lindsay talk about the mission of GRRO and the important work being done to preserve, promote, and celebrate the communities and landmarks along the Great River Road. They also discuss how music, heritage, and local culture come together to create unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike.

The spotlight of this episode is the upcoming Bluegrass on the Bluff festival happening June 6 at the beautiful and historic Columbus-Belmont State Park. Set high on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, this special event will feature great bluegrass music, scenic views, local history, and family-friendly fun.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The story and mission behind GRRO

• Why preserving regional history matters

• What makes Columbus-Belmont State Park such a special venue

• What attendees can expect at Bluegrass on the Bluff

• How music helps connect communities across the region

Make plans now to join us on June 6 for an unforgettable evening of bluegrass music and heritage at Bluegrass on the Bluff.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and follow The Hometown Bluegrass Show for more conversations celebrating bluegrass music, community, and the people keeping tradition alive.

Welcome to Episode 99! Josh and Tim recorded this week’s episode on location at beautiful Columbus-Belmont State Park with a great view and plenty of bluegrass talk.

In this episode, we discuss Batts Music & Media’s upcoming bluegrass festival, Bluegrass On The Bluff, happening June 6. We share details about the event, what attendees can expect, and why this festival is shaping up to be a special day for bluegrass fans, families, and the community.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Recording on location at Columbus-Belmont State Park

• The vision behind Bluegrass On The Bluff

• Festival plans for June 6

• Live music, fellowship, and community fun

• Supporting bluegrass music through Batts Music & Media

Thank you for listening and supporting the show as we approach our 100th episode milestone! Be sure to share this episode with a friend and make plans now to join us for Bluegrass On The Bluff on June 6.

In this heartfelt episode, Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with bluegrass legend Don Rigsby for a deeply personal conversation about music, legacy, and family.

Don shares the story behind his latest single with his band Southern Legacy, titled “Bill from Isonville.” The song is a tribute to his late father, Bill Rigsby, and carries a powerful emotional weight that resonates far beyond the bluegrass world.

Tim, Josh, and Don reflect on:

• The inspiration behind writing “Bill from Isonville”

• The influence of Don’s father on his life and musical journey

• How songs rooted in personal loss can connect with a wide audience

• Why this track especially speaks to those who have lost their dads

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a reminder of how music helps us process grief, honor those we love, and find common ground through shared experiences.

Whether you’re a lifelong bluegrass fan or simply someone who understands the bond between a father and child, this is an episode that will stay with you.

🎧 Tune in and experience the story behind the song.

This week on The Hometown Bluegrass Show, we’re taking a trip back to where it all began.

Join us as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Josh Williams’ debut album from 2001—a project that helped launch one of bluegrass music’s most respected voices and pickers. From those early studio sessions to the road miles that followed, we reflect on the music, the memories, and the moments that shaped Josh’s journey.

In this episode, we kick things off with a look back at Josh’s recent trip overseas as he shares stories from touring Ireland with Southern Legacy. From the warm welcome of bluegrass fans across the pond to the unforgettable moments on stage, Josh gives us a glimpse into what it’s like bringing traditional American music to an international audience.

We also take time to reflect on the life and legacy of Ronnie Bowman—a true giant in bluegrass music. Known for his powerful voice, heartfelt songwriting, and influence on the genre, Ronnie left a lasting mark that continues to inspire artists and fans alike.

In a special tribute, Josh performs one of Ronnie’s most moving songs, “Three Rusty Nails,” delivering it with the sincerity and respect that honors Ronnie’s memory.

Josh is still across the pond in Ireland performing with his band Southern Legacy, so Tim is holding things down this week with another great episode full of music and conversation.

Tim kicks things off by sharing a couple more of his original songs, giving listeners a personal look at his songwriting and musical style. It’s always a treat to hear the stories and inspiration behind the music straight from the source.

Then, we dive back into Part 2 of our interview with legendary mandolin player Wayne Benson of IIIrd Tyme Out. Wayne continues the conversation, reflecting on his career, musical influences, and life on the road with one of bluegrass music’s most respected groups.

If you enjoyed Part 1, you won’t want to miss this deeper look into Wayne’s journey and his signature mandolin style.

In this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts takes the reins solo while co-host Josh Williams is overseas in Ireland, performing with Southern Legacy. Tim shares a bit about Josh’s travels and what it means to take bluegrass music across the pond.

With a little extra room in the show, Tim opens things up personally—talking about his own musical journey and playing a couple of his original songs. It’s a special segment that gives listeners a deeper look into the heart behind the host and the music he loves.

Later in the episode, Tim welcomes a true legend of bluegrass mandolin—Wayne Benson of IIIrd Tyme Out. Wayne joins the show to talk about his long and respected career, his signature mandolin style, and life on the road with one of bluegrass music’s most celebrated bands. It’s a great conversation filled with stories, insight, and a deep appreciation for traditional bluegrass.

Whether you're tuning in for the music, the stories, or the artists who keep the tradition alive, Episode #94 delivers a rich dose of bluegrass straight from the source.

In Episode #93 of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with Grammy-winning bluegrass powerhouse Dan Tyminski just moments before he takes the stage at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Best known for his unmistakable voice with Alison Krauss & Union Station and for singing the iconic version of Man of Constant Sorrow from the film O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Dan reflects on his journey through bluegrass, the evolution of his solo career, and the music that continues to inspire him.

From classic bluegrass roots to modern collaborations and new music, this episode offers a candid conversation with one of the most respected voices in acoustic music.

Podcast Episode #92 – The Hometown Bluegrass Show
Guest: Cindy Baucom – “Knee-Deep in Bluegrass”

In Episode 92 of the The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim Batts sits down with legendary bluegrass radio host Cindy Baucom, known around the world as the voice behind the long-running program Knee-Deep in Bluegrass. 🎙️

Cindy shares the story of how she got her start in bluegrass broadcasting and how a love for traditional music led her to become one of the most recognized voices in the genre. From her early days discovering the music to building a nationally syndicated radio show, Cindy reflects on decades spent supporting artists, preserving tradition, and connecting fans with the heart of bluegrass.

Tim and Cindy also talk about the importance of radio in keeping bluegrass alive, memorable moments from interviews with legendary performers, and the evolving future of the genre. Cindy offers insight into what makes bluegrass so special and why the community surrounding the music continues to thrive.

Plus, you’ll hear about her new children's book that celebrates the life of her late husband Terry Baucom and celebrates the spirit of his music we all loved. 🎻

We’re back with Part 2 of our unforgettable conversation with music icon Jerry Douglas.

If you enjoyed Episode #90, you’re going to love where this conversation goes next. In this episode, Jerry opens up even more about his career, collaborations, and the future of acoustic music.

In this milestone episode, we sit down with one of the most influential musicians in modern acoustic music history — Jerry Douglas.

This is Part 1 of a special two-part conversation, and it’s packed with stories, wisdom, and behind-the-scenes moments from a career that has shaped bluegrass and beyond.

Be sure to subscribe and tune in next week for Part 2, where we continue the conversation and dive even deeper into Jerry’s career, collaborations, and advice for the next generation of musicians.

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.

On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh spins a timeless classic with “Gentle on My Mind,” setting the tone for another laid-back, roots-filled hour of bluegrass goodness.

We’re also joined by fellow podcaster Rick Dollar for a great conversation about podcasting, bluegrass, and keeping the music alive through new media. It’s always fun talking shop with someone who shares the same passion for storytelling and traditional music.