On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Podcast with Joey Stuckey, we celebrate Women’s History Month by honoring the trailblazing women guitarists who have shaped music across generations.

From foundational pioneers like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mary Ford, Elizabeth Cotten, and Mary Ford, to influential artists such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Dolly Parton, and rock icons like Joan Jett, Nancy Wilson, and Lita Ford, Joey explores their lasting impact.

The conversation also spotlights modern innovators and genre-bending artists including Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, Samantha Fish, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Orianthi, and H.E.R..

Together, these artists represent the depth, diversity, and innovation of women in guitar—from blues and folk to rock, Americana, and beyond—while also highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome and the legacy they continue to build.

🎧 Listen to our Women Guitarists Spotify Music Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4B3OAVC0AW60wF3i5SjLsZ?si=8ce204f42cb34fb2

🎶 Learn more about Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

Artist images courtesy of Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons. All images are used under their respective Creative Commons licenses. Photographers include Mandi Hall, Penguinstorm, Justin Higuchi, Skyerise, Stevie Rae Gibbs, Truejustice, Chris Hakkens, Jim Summaria, Zoran Veselinovic, David Gans, and Heinrich Klaffs.

Is modern democracy truly serving the people—or has it become controlled by powerful party systems?

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward, we talk with author and entrepreneur Metin Pekin about his thought-provoking new book, "Breaking Democracy’s Chains: Freeing and Fortifying Democracy Against Hidden Capture."

Drawing from political theory, history, and real-world experience, Pekin explores how political parties have evolved from representative institutions into powerful gatekeepers that can centralize authority, deepen polarization, and limit genuine democratic participation. He discusses the historical roots of party politics, the influence of money and media on elections, and why he believes meaningful reform may require moving beyond traditional party structures.

The conversation examines ideas such as independent candidates, decentralized governance, local accountability, transparency in campaign financing, and empowering citizens through more direct representation. Whether listeners agree or disagree with his conclusions, Pekin’s arguments invite thoughtful discussion about the future of democratic systems around the world.

Learn more: https://www.metinpekin.com/

🎧 This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday “Books & Authors” series with Books Forward, highlighting new and thought-provoking books and the authors behind them. Visit: https://booksforward.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Chris P. James, front man of the legendary The Burrito Brothers, to dive into the band’s bold new album, The Magic Time Machine of Love.

Rather than leaning on nostalgia, the Burritos are bending time—fusing recordings spanning 1983–2024 into a genre-blurring journey where jazz motifs inspired by Charles Mingus collide with cosmic country, prog-psych textures, and honky-tonk grit polished for the future.

Chris P. James shares insights into the creative process behind the 12-track release, including: - The album’s “time machine” concept - Innovative recording approaches inspired by The Beatles - Reimagining classics from artists like Procol Harum and Quicksilver Messenger Service - Honoring the legacy of country-rock pioneer Gram Parsons - Blending vintage Burritos spirit with modern sonic innovation

The album also features remarkable moments, including archival contributions from original Flying Burrito members Jon Corneal and Ian Dunlop, a fiery guest turn from former Burrito Brothers guitarist Bob Hatter, and even two tracks featuring Gram Parsons’ vocals brought forward through groundbreaking AI technology.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1968 as the The Flying Burrito Brothers, the Burritos helped pioneer country-rock with landmark albums like The Gilded Palace of Sin. Today’s Nashville-based lineup—Chris P. James, Steve Allen, Tony Paoletta, and Peter Young—continues that legacy while fearlessly pushing forward.

Learn more: https://www.theburritobrothers.net/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey," Joey shares key insights from his recent experiences at industry events including the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show and The Recording Academy’s Grammy Week. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming music creation, performance, and accessibility.

Joey discusses the growing role of AI in the music industry, from tools that support musicians with disabilities to emerging concerns around copyright, ownership, safety, and environmental impact. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in AI training data, protecting digital identity, and balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.

This forward-looking episode offers valuable perspective for musicians, creators, and music lovers navigating the evolving intersection of technology and artistry.

🎸 About Joey Stuckey Joey Stuckey is Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio. He is a passionate advocate for accessibility and innovation in music. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Rants, Raves & Rock ’N Roll" Podcast features Matt Stone, a talented Elvis tribute artist and vocalist who has been performing as Elvis Presley since the age of 12.

Now 22, Matt Stone has been internationally recognized by the Elvis Presley Estate, featured on SiriusXM Elvis Radio, and praised by many of Elvis’ closest friends and family. He has performed on some of the very same stages Elvis played in the 1950s — sometimes by chance, including the historic Memorial Auditorium (now the Martin Marietta Center) in Raleigh, North Carolina, where Elvis performed in 1955.

Recorded by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — music interview hosts, concertgoers, and owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, as well as cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast — this conversation dives beyond the jumpsuit and into the artistry behind the performance.

Matt shares his journey into becoming an Elvis tribute artist, his musical influences, unforgettable (and sometimes wild) fan interactions, the craftsmanship behind his costumes and vintage equipment, and what it means to perform in historically significant venues. He also reflects on his international performances, favorite Elvis songs and films, and what’s next in his career.

After the interview, Mr. & Mrs. Wild had the opportunity to experience Matt Stone’s authentic and captivating live show — further underscoring the power of live music and creative performance.

LINKS & RESOURCES - Matt Stone: https://www.mattstoneaselvis.com/ - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KWhk3hzhX/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mrandmrswildmusic - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s Elvis Month (Memphis) programming and also celebrates International Creativity Month, honoring creative expression through music, performance, and storytelling. It is also featured on the Big Daily Blend and Toast to The Arts Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Rants, Raves & Rock ’N Roll" Podcast features Steve and Karen Wilson — better known as Mr. & Mrs. Wild — lifelong music lovers, dedicated concertgoers, and the newest rock music interview hosts joining the network.

Beyond the stage, they are also the owners of The Lion and The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast. In this conversation, the focus is on music and creativity — from the power of live performances and evolving concert culture to the lasting influence of Southern rock, hard rock, and metal.

The discussion explores why tribute bands play a vital role in preserving music history through creative interpretation, how early musical influences shape lifelong expression, and why supporting live music remains essential.

This episode sets the stage for Mr. & Mrs. Wild’s upcoming musician interviews, including their conversation with Elvis tribute artist Matt Stone, airing January 28.

They recently interviewed Alan Rueda of the Stone Whiskey band, which is available here: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/rocking-asheville/

This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s International Creativity Month programming and is also featured on the "Big Daily Blend" and "Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channels, celebrating creative expression through music, performance, and storytelling.

LINKS & RESOURCES - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KWhk3hzhX/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mrandmrswildmusic - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ - Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey," Joey—Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador—dives into the essentials of guitar care and instrument maintenance. From proper setup and cleaning to understanding how environment, wood, and age affect tone, this solo episode offers practical insight for musicians at every stage.

Joey explains why regular maintenance matters, how working with a luthier can extend an instrument’s life, and why every guitar develops its own character over time. The conversation also explores alternate tunings, playability, and the lifelong journey of shaping your personal sound. Whether you’re a working musician or a passionate hobbyist, this episode highlights the importance of caring for your instrument so it can perform at its best.

Joey Stuckey is an award-winning blind musician, producer, recording artist, guitarist, and Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador. Known for his Southern rock and blues roots, Joey is also the owner of Shadow Sound Studio and a passionate educator dedicated to sharing the power of music. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

In this insightful Big Blend Radio conversation, acclaimed film producer Steven Lawrence talks about the newly restored documentary "The Long Way Home: Remastered and Expanded (2026)" — a rollicking portrait of Soviet underground rock legend Boris Grebenshchikov and a vivid celebration of the cultural exchange between East and West.

Steven shares behind-the-scenes stories from the film’s restoration, the legacy of director Michael Apted, and why this remarkable film — newly preserved and expanded with a powerful epilogue — is resonating today.

Also highlighted, is the 22nd MoMA International Festival of Film Preservation, where The Long Way Home will be screened Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00 PM at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, with an in-person introduction by Steven Lawrence and editor Susanne Rostock. Discover the significance of this international festival dedicated to film heritage, why preservation matters, and how audiences can experience cinema’s past and present.

👉 Get tickets and full festival details: https://www.moma.org/calendar/film/5879

👉Visit: https://www.thelongwayhomefilm.com/