Americana Podcast explores the artists and ideas shaping American roots music, focusing this episode on the genre-defying Steve Poltz. Poltz is celebrated for his originality, blending tradition with unpredictability in a career that spans decades. Born in Nova Scotia and raised in Southern California, he first gained widespread attention as the co-writer of Jewel’s hit You Were Meant for Me. However, his true impact lies in his continual reinvention and subversion of Americana norms. His work reflects the folk tradition’s emphasis on storytelling and community, while also embracing humor, vulnerability, and improvisation. Poltz serves as a creative link between the West Coast’s DIY folk-punk movement and the broader narrative tradition of American roots music. This episode examines how his artistic approach challenges expectations and keeps audiences engaged. Listeners are also invited to watch a live performance of You Were Meant for Me with the Robert Earl Keen Band on YouTube.

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As Robert Earl Keen & team look forward to more touring, a new record, and a new season of the Americana Podcast, join us as we take a moment to look back, in order to look forward for what’s to come. This episode contains the previous season’s best-of moments from the 51st State. Hear conversation clips from bluegrass genre-bender Billy Strings (01:41), American Aquarium's BJ Barham (08:56), modern day troubadour Brent Cobb (14:45), REK’s good friend and touring pal Elizabeth Cook (18:23), zen-master and songsmith Jim Lauderdale (21:54), the everywoman wonderwoman Lori McKenna (29:38), wild and wonderful Todd Snider (33:21) , and the unmistakable baritone of Jake Smith aka White Buffalo (43:17). We also have insight from Will Vogt (41:28), long-time friend, contributor, and supporter of Americana Podcast.

Consider this 5-Year Anniversary recap as your “CliffNotes”, something to study up on before we begin to release next season’s episodes in April 2025, which will feature more of what you’ve come to expect and love about the podcast: in-depth and candid conversations about the craft of songwriting within the greater Americana genre with our trusted and time-tested host, Robert Earl Keen. As well as a very exciting sneak peek from Robert himself about the future of Americana Podcast, and where we are growing and evolving with the genre for the future!!

o Billy Strings (01:41)

o BJ Barham (08:56)

o Brent Cobb (14:45)

o Elizabeth Cook (18:23)

o Hiss Golden Messenger (21:48)

o Jim Lauderdale (24:54)

o Lori McKenna (29:38)

o Todd Snider (33:21)

o Vince Herman (37:50)

o Will Vogt (41:28)

o White Buffalo (43:17)

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial

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https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

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createdirector@robertearlkeen.com

Hello and welcome Americana Podcast listeners to a very special and celebratory episode. Long time listeners and new friends, we are so excited to share with you that as of April 29, 2024- we are celebrating the 5th Anniversary of this show. It has been such an honor to have been documenting the story of Americana through the artist’s lens. And we’ve heard some incredible stories, from Billy Strings to Lori McKenna, to Shinyribs and most recently Hiss Golden Messenger. From the young blood of Jamestown Revival to the stalwart rockers in the image of Jim Lauderdale. We’ve only scratched the surface of what makes Americana what it is today and what its future can only hold. As we mark a momentous occasion, five years of weaving tales and tunes, let us embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of our show's legacy.

To honor this milestone, we are joined by one of the true luminaries of the Americana scene. First, a troubadour whose name is synonymous with the genre, a man whose songs echo with the spirit of the American heartland, the one and only Ray Wylie Hubbard. I know I’ve been your temporary host for a while so the celebration doesn't stop there. Also returning to the show is our very own, revered songwriter whose wit and wisdom have endeared him to audiences far and wide, the incomparable Robert Earl Keen. Together, they represent the very essence of Americana, embodying its spirit and sound with every chord and lyric.

Live from KNBT’s Roots and Branches show- join us as Ray Wylie Hubbard, Robert Earl Keen, and Americana radio pioneer Mattson Rainer recount their songwriting journey, the passion for music, and indulge us in some very special performances (this is a long show- but I can assure you it is worth every minute).

So join us as we raise a toast to the history of our show, to five years of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of musical truth. I’m your producer Clara Rose, and this is Americana Podcast- the 51st State

Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial

Donate to the show!

https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast

Instagram

@robertearlkeen1

Have questions or suggestions? Email

createdirector@robertearlkeen.com