Summary

From 2012: Mark Durfield from the Bearfoot Hookers spills the tea on how his lifelong passion for music evolved into a creative journey filled with heartfelt stories and captivating melodies. He dives deep into his roots, sharing tales of strumming his first guitar at just two years old, fueled by the sounds of Elvis and gospel tunes from his mom. The conversation shifts to the band's musical influences, notably the Southern rock legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd, which shaped their signature sound while balancing a rich blend of rock and country vibes. As they chat, Durfield reveals the transformative power of singing lessons that unlocked his songwriting potential and led to their latest album, a reflection of personal growth and deeper themes that resonate with the struggles of life and faith. With insights into their collaborative process and the vibrant Athens music scene, this episode is a warm invitation to explore the dynamic world of the Bearfoot Hookers.

Show Notes

The Roots of Rock with Mark Durfield

In this episode, Mark Durfield of The Bearfoot Hookers takes us on a relaxed, reflective journey through the roots of his musical path. From childhood guitar strums to his deep dive into Southern rock, Mark’s conversation is filled with humor, nostalgia, and a whole lot of heart. This is the kind of chat you’d have with a friend over a cold drink, honest, engaging, and full of good stories.

Episode Highlights:

• Early Musical Beginnings:
• Mark's love for music kicked off at the age of two, when he first picked up a guitar.
• He reflects on the musical sounds of his childhood, from Elvis to gospel music, and how they shaped his early taste.
• The gritty, raw energy of 70s rock like Led Zeppelin & Cream was the spark that truly ignited his passion for music.
• A Southern Rock Journey:
• Mark shares stories about growing up with the wild sounds of rock & roll and how his family's musical tastes influenced his style.
• A funny moment about his mother’s reaction to rock legends like Jerry Lee Lewis, who didn’t exactly match her idea of appropriate music!
• The Southern rock culture and its enduring impact on his sound, which is integral to the Bearfoot Hookers’ unique vibe.
• Musical Identity & Genre Struggles:
• The paradox of loving rock while often finding himself writing country songs, a clash of musical worlds that Mark humorously embraces.
• He talks about the personal challenge of navigating genres and how artists often blend influences to form their true voice.
• The creative process of drawing from both rock and country, and how the mix has led to a signature sound.
• The Athens Music Scene:
• The importance of community within the Athens music scene, where Mark and his bandmates thrive.
• How collaboration plays a key role in their sound, with each member bringing their own strengths to the table.
• The way musicians build relationships through their art, creating music that speaks far beyond just the performance.
• Looking Ahead to New Projects:
• A peek into the future of the Bearfoot Hookers and what listeners can expect from their upcoming projects.
• The sense of natural progression in their music as they continue to explore new sounds, themes, and deeper layers of artistry.
• The Journey of Creativity:
• Mark reflects on the messy, beautiful evolution of his music career: how it’s been a series of unexpected twists and turns that led to his true artistic self.
• Emphasizes that every note played is part of a bigger journey, and how those struggles and discoveries ultimately fuel great music.
• The importance...

Summary

From 2012: Lincoln Durham joined the crew on Country Fried Rock to chat about his musical journey, diving deep into the creative process that fuels his unique sound. He kicked things off by sharing how his early days playing the fiddle, thanks to his family, laid the groundwork for his evolution as an artist. The conversation took a turn as he revealed his transition from a shy kid behind the fiddle to a bold singer-songwriter, influenced by legends like Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix. They also touched on his recent album, The Shovel Versus The Howling Bones, discussing how his solitude during the writing process shaped his music, leading to a raw and captivating live performance style. As they wrapped up, Lincoln reflected on the Austin music scene and his plans for future projects, leaving listeners eager to hear what’s next from this dynamic artist.

Links

• REMINDER: IGNORE ALL LINKS OR EVENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FROM 2012
• Toss a few in our Tip Jar!

• Lincoln Durham
• You may also enjoy this conversation from 2015 with Mason Lankford of Folk Family Revival

Show Notes

"The Art of Creation with Lincoln Durham"

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of musical creativity with Lincoln Durham, a dynamic force in the country music scene. From his childhood beginnings to his evolution as an artist, Lincoln shares his incredible journey through life and music. With an open heart and a touch of humor, he reflects on the twists and turns that led him to embrace his voice and his craft.

Episode Highlights:

• Early Beginnings:
• Lincoln recounts picking up the fiddle at just four years old, encouraged by his father and grandfather.
• He shares his experience with the Suzuki method and how it laid the foundation for his musical growth.
• Despite his early struggles with reading music, Lincoln was driven by a deep love for the art form.
• The Osceola Opry & Finding His Voice:
• Lincoln’s childhood performances at the Osceola Opry were pivotal in his artistic development.
• Initially a shy fiddler, he reveals how the stage helped him transition into a passionate vocalist.
• A glimpse into his adolescent journey of searching for his artistic identity.
• The Moment of Self-Discovery:
• The turning point came when Lincoln embraced songwriting in his late teens, marking the beginning of his transformation as a true artist.
• He reflects on the vulnerability and self-reflection involved in developing his voice.
• Creative Process & Solitude:
• Lincoln discusses his year of "cocooning," a time spent in solitude and introspection that helped him hone his songwriting skills.
• He talks about the delicate balance between creating lyrics with depth and crafting melodies that captivate.
• Rock icons like Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix played a significant role in shaping his approach to songwriting.
• From Writer to Performer:
• Lincoln shares how his evolution from a solitary writer to an engaging performer unfolded over time.
• The challenge of balancing personal introspection with the energy of public performance.
• Collaborations & the Power of Community:
• He opens up about his recent collaborations with fellow musicians and how they’ve enriched his sound.
• The...

Summary

From 2012: Brett Anderson from Ha Ha Tonka drops some serious wisdom on the creative journey of music-making, emphasizing that the band's evolution is all about the collective influences that blend into their sound. He spills the beans on how their roots run deep, tracing back to childhood memories filled with bluegrass, Motown, and Southern rock vibes that shaped their musical DNA. As they reminisce about their early days jamming in high school talent shows, it’s clear that experimentation and growth have been the name of the game, especially with their latest album, Death of a Decade. The crew chats about the magic of harmonies, how a goofy moment inspired by Anchorman led to a signature sound that really got them grooving. They’re not just about laying down tracks; they’re all about the vibe of live performances, connecting with audiences, and crafting songs that resonate, all while keeping it as real and raw as possible.

Show Notes

Let’s Dive into the World of Roots Music, Ha Ha Tonka Style

The episode kicks off with a laid-back, nostalgic stroll through the musical roots of our guest from Ha Ha Tonka. Here’s how it all unfolds:

• Our guest paints a warm picture of childhood summers at the Lake of the Ozarks.
• The soundtrack? A mix of bluegrass, southern rock, gospel, music that practically floated on the lake breeze.

At home, his parents played DJ:

• Mom: Hardcore country and classic Motown
• Dad: Southern rock, all day long

That eclectic mix set the stage for what would become a pretty unique musical identity.

• It all changed in high school when he picked up a guitar.
• He started with covers, but it wasn’t long before he dipped into writing original songs.
• Those early jam sessions were where the seed of the Ha Ha Tonka sound really started to sprout.

• Fast forward to Missouri State University, where music-loving minds met.
• What started as casual jam sessions turned into something much more serious.
• Soon, it wasn’t just about playing music. It was about making something real.
• Their debut album took shape, a blend of their shared influences and new ideas.
• Signing with Bloodshot Records? That was the moment the hobby turned into a hustle.

The band leaned into their rootsy sound, experimenting with:

• Tight harmonies
• Acoustic-meets-rock arrangements
• A storytelling vibe that felt both grounded and fresh
• Their music became a reflection of where they came from, and where they were headed.

The conversation turns to their latest album, Death of a Decade.

• The guest talks about growth
• More collaboration within the band
• Trying new instruments and textures
• A more mature, layered sound
• There’s a buzz about what’s next: new ideas, new songs, and more stories waiting to be told.

This episode isn’t just about a band. It’s about the journey of becoming one. From Ozark summers to college jam sessions and beyond, Ha Ha Tonka’s story is as rich and rootsy as their sound.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction to Country Fried Rock
• 05:40 - Finding Our Sound
• 07:22 - Finding Their Sound: The Journey with Mandolin and New Influences
• 16:18 - The Creative Process of Song Development
• 21:02 - The Evolution of Live Performance
• 24:54 -...

Summary

From 2012: Angela Easterling dives into the delightful chaos of her creative journey, showcasing how her latest album, a unique blend of Americana and French flair, came to be. She shares the quirky backstory of translating her songs and the unexpected challenges that arose, like accidentally asking a food truck for apple juice instead of directions in Paris. Angela reflects on her evolution as an artist, tracing her roots back to her childhood and her diverse musical influences, all while keeping it real with a touch of southern charm. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they discuss the intricacies of language and the pitfalls of translation, all while celebrating the growth that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone. With a laid-back vibe, this episode encapsulates the joy of music and the serendipitous moments that inspire creativity, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling through song.

Show Notes

Angela Easterling is back on Country Fried Rock, sharing the laid-back journey of her musical career that’s taken her from the quiet corners of South Carolina to the buzzing streets of Los Angeles. Here's a breakdown of the conversation:

• Latest Project: Angela’s new album is a French surprise! Despite fans initially raising an eyebrow at the idea of an Americana album in French, she’s fully embracing the unexpected and showing off her linguistic chops.
• Creative Process: The album’s inspiration came from her collaboration with Mahayan, a French professor. Together, they took Angela’s song "One Microphone" and turned it into "Unmie Coffin," and that was just the beginning!
• Lost in Translation: Angela shares some hilarious translation mishaps, including a memorable moment where she accidentally ended up asking for apple juice in Paris. Proof that even seasoned artists can find themselves in some funny situations.
• Reconnecting with Roots: After bouncing around LA and Boston, Angela moved back to South Carolina, where she tapped into her country roots in a way she hadn’t before. This move has brought a new depth to her writing and to her connection with country music.
• Full Circle Moment: By embracing her country influences, Angela feels she’s found her truest sound yet, and it’s a reminder that sometimes, going home leads to the best discoveries.

The episode is packed with laughter, inspiration, and a whole lot of musical heart.

Chapters

• 00:09 - Introduction to Angela Easterling
• 04:34 - Challenges of Translating Song Lyrics
• 07:18 - The Journey into Music
• 13:40 - Reconnecting with Roots: The Journey Back to South Carolina
• 20:00 - The Transition to Music Production
• 26:12 - The Evolution of a Musician: From Local Roots to National Stage

Takeaways

• Angela Easterling's journey into music reflects a serendipitous blend of personal experiences and cultural influences.
• The creative process of translating songs into French illustrates a unique challenge that enhances songwriting skills.
• Returning to South Carolina reconnected Angela with her roots, significantly shaping her musical direction and identity.
• Working with friends and collaborators in a supportive environment fosters creativity and experimentation in Angela's music.

Links

• REMINDER: IGNORE ALL LINKS OR EVENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FROM 2012
• Angela Easterling
• You may also enjoy this conversation from

Summary

From 2012: Patrick Sweany gets real about the Nashville music scene, diving deep into his journey from coffee shop gigs in Ohio to making waves in the heart of Music City. He spills the beans on how the Basement became his home base and his Nashville family, crediting them for his leap into this vibrant community where creativity flows like sweet tea on a hot day. Patrick reminisces about the electric nights at showcases, where he learned that every performance is a chance to connect with an audience, even if they’re more interested in the game on TV. The convo rolls into his evolution as an artist, revealing how he honed his craft through countless late-night sets, proving that hard work and passion can make dreams come true. Tune in to hear how he navigates the ups and downs of the music biz, all while keeping it real and relatable in a town that can be as tough as a two-dollar steak.

Show Notes

Diving into the vibrant world of music with Patrick Sweany

Sloane Spencer and Patrick Sweeney kick off a laid-back yet insightful conversation about his artistic journey, starting with a pivotal night in 2011 at a Nashville showcase. Here's how the chat unfolds:

Nashville Roots:

• Patrick shares how his music career began at The Basement, a venue that’s close to his heart. The Nashville community, full of creative energy, gave him the support he needed to find his footing in the city.

From Ohio to Music City:

• He paints a picture of a young musician fresh from Ohio, navigating the highs and lows of live performances, all while trying to figure out his sound. It's a story of the hustle and heart of breaking into the Nashville music scene.

Creative Integrity in a Commercial World:

• The conversation takes a deeper turn as Patrick talks about the struggle to stay true to his artistic voice while the music industry often pushes for commercial success. It’s about balancing creativity and maintaining authenticity.

Formative Years in Kent, Ohio:

• Patrick reflects on how his love for music first blossomed in his teenage years, especially when he discovered blues and rock. A key moment in his journey, he recalls how these raw, soulful sounds ignited his passion for music.

Witty Banter on Musicianship:

• With a lighthearted tone, Patrick contrasts the serious musicianship he admired with the more laid-back vibe of some live performances. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best music comes from unexpected, casual moments.

The Evolution of Genre:

• The discussion cleverly touches on how genres evolve and the importance of staying authentic. Patrick talks about the challenges of finding your voice amid the pressures of fitting into predefined categories in the industry.

What’s Next for Patrick:

• The episode wraps up with Patrick teasing some exciting upcoming projects and collaborations. He leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his musical journey.

In the end, this episode of Country Fried Rock is more than just a look at Patrick Sweany’s path; it's a celebration of the community, creativity, and serendipity that shape an artist’s journey.

Chapters

• 00:09 - Introducing Patrick Sweany
• 04:51 - The Influence of Live Music on Musical Growth
• 10:55 - From Coffee Shops to Country Music: The Journey Begins
• 11:47 - The Journey of a Musician
• 21:40 - The Journey of a Musician: From Gigs to Records
• 25:06 - The Nashville Music Scene

Takeaways

• The podcast dives deep into the creative inspirations of...

Summary

James McMurtry, a heavyweight in the music world, takes center stage in this convo, diving deep into the heart of protest music and social change. He kicks things off with a hilarious admission about writing songs just to get ladies' attention (classic move)! As they riff on McMurtry's journey from lonely beer garden gigs to crafting powerful anthems, he shares the backstory of his iconic protest song, "We Can't Make It Here," which struck a chord right before the 2004 elections. The discussion morphs into a thoughtful analysis of how music can serve as a catalyst for dialogue, especially around issues like corporate power versus the people's voice. With a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of insight, this episode is a delightful blend of McMurtry's personal anecdotes and a savvy commentary on the current state of society, leaving listeners both entertained and contemplative.

Show Notes

Country Fried Rock takes you behind the scenes of James McMurtry’s world, where his music meets life’s raw truths. Here’s the inside scoop on what to expect from this unforgettable conversation:

A Playful Start:

• McMurtry kicks things off with a laugh, admitting his first push into songwriting was driven by a simple desire for attention, specifically from women. It’s a fun, light-hearted beginning that sets a laid-back tone for the whole episode.

The Early Struggles:

• As he looks back on his first performances in beer gardens, McMurtry paints a picture of the grind: learning to play cover songs to get gigs, then slowly sneaking in his original stuff. The way he tells it, you can almost hear the clink of beer bottles and the hum of a tired crowd.

Protest Music & Politics:

• The conversation gets deeper when McMurtry talks about his iconic protest song, “We Can’t Make It Here.” Written during a tense time in U.S. politics, the song became a rallying cry for many, capturing the frustrations of everyday folks. McMurtry explains how protest music can spark important conversations without pushing people away, all while balancing the fine line between political commentary and universal truths.

Writing With Purpose:

• He shares his process of crafting songs that not only raise questions but also make room for connection. It’s all about creating music that invites listeners to reflect—without alienating them. His insights are both witty and wise, proving there's more to his music than meets the ear.

The Future of McMurtry’s Music:

• As the episode winds down, McMurtry hints at a shift toward more personal storytelling in his upcoming work. He's not done evolving, and it’s clear he’s always searching for deeper ways to connect with his audience. Plus, there's talk of collaborations with legends like Joan Baez, making us all eager to hear what's next.

This episode is a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a musician who has used his craft to not just entertain, but to engage and inspire generations.

Chapters

• 00:18 - Interview with James McMurtry
• 02:05 - The Journey of Songwriting and Protest Music
• 05:45 - The Influence of Corporate Power on Government
• 10:41 - The Evolution of Music Production
• 19:16 - The Austin Residency and Its Impact on Local Artists
• 20:47 - Intellectual Property and Music in the Digital Age

Takeaways

• James McMurtry started writing songs primarily to impress women, revealing his youthful motivations behind creativity.
• His early musical inspirations were drawn from obscure artists like David Bromberg and John Hartford, shaping his unique sound.
• The evolution of his...

Summary

From 2012: Annie Rothschild of Paladino spills the beans on her musical journey, diving into how her roots in blues, thanks to her dad's iconic record label (Landslide), shaped her sound and career. From the early days of tinkering with piano and clarinet to her recent romance with the upright bass, she reveals how her eclectic influences, from Bonnie Raitt to the Allman Brothers, spark her creativity. The convo takes a twist as Annie talks about the unique blend of country vibes with a punk edge that defines Paladino’s music, showcasing the band's chemistry and collaborative spirit. They chat about the whirlwind of recording what was supposed to be a demo but turned into their self-titled album, all while keeping things real with a no-nonsense approach to studio time. Tune in for a laid-back yet insightful peek into the life of a musician who's all about staying true to her roots while exploring new sounds.

Chapters

• 00:12 - Introduction to Today's Guest
• 05:15 - The Journey of a Bass Player
• 09:37 - The Evolution of Paladino's Sound
• 14:56 - The Future of Paladino's Sound
• 17:46 - Touring Adventures and Family Life

Show Notes

Diving into the vibrant world of music, Sloane Spencer welcomes Annie Rothschild from Paladino to discuss the roots of her musical journey. Growing up surrounded by the rich sounds of the South, thanks to her father’s record label, Annie's introduction to music was as organic as it gets. She reminisces about her early days, from classical piano lessons to picking up the electric bass a decade ago, and eventually transitioning to the upright bass with Palladino. Their conversation unpacks Annie's influences, ranging from the blues legends like Muddy Waters and Bonnie Raitt to the soulful grooves of New Orleans. As Annie shares her passion for improvisation and the unique tonal qualities of the upright bass, listeners get a glimpse of the deep connection between her musical upbringing and her current artistic expression. The episode captures the essence of creativity, illustrating how Annie's background has shaped her approach to music-making and her journey with Paladino.

Takeaways

• Annie Rothschild's musical journey began with a childhood steeped in blues, thanks to her father's record label, shaping her artistic path.
• The formation of Paladino was a serendipitous event, showcasing how organic connections can lead to creative collaborations in music.
• Annie's transition from electric to upright bass illustrates the evolution of her musical style, embracing the rich tones of roots music.
• The chemistry within Paladino is a delightful mix of personalities and influences, creating a unique sound that blends country with punk rock elements.
• Annie expresses aspirations for their next album to reflect a more cohesive sound, highlighting the importance of production in music creation.
• The band emphasizes the joy of live performance, describing their gigs as a continuously evolving experience fueled by audience energy.

Links

• REMINDER: IGNORE ALL LINKS OR EVENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FROM 2012
• Annie Rothschild of Paladino, later of Nocona
• You may also enjoy this conversation from 2015 with Lee Gallagher
• Toss a few in the Tip Jar!

Mentioned in this Episode

• Paladino
• Landslide Records
• Capricorn
• Widespread Panic...

Summary

From 2012. At the end of this episode, well, she did exactly that.

Margo Price of Buffalo Clover dives deep into her musical journey, sharing how her roots in family music and her self-taught guitar skills shaped her unique sound. With a blend of candid reflection and playful anecdotes, she reminisces about her early days, from awkward piano lessons to the exhilarating thrill of writing her own songs. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as she reveals the therapeutic power of songwriting, especially during challenging times, including the loss of one of her twins. Margo's infectious energy shines through as she discusses the evolution of Buffalo Clover's music, exploring the delicate balance between rock and country, while also hinting at her new solo project. As they chat, it's clear that Margo's passion for music is as vibrant as ever, and she’s excited about the future, hoping to captivate audiences and make a full-time living doing what she loves.

Show Notes

On this episode of Country Fried Rock, Sloane Spencer sat down with the ever-charming Margo Price, lead singer of Buffalo Clover. Here's what went down:

• Kicking things off: Margo brought her signature wit and down-to-earth vibe as she chatted about her early days, starting out on piano, teaching herself guitar, and growing up in a musically rich family that clearly shaped her path.

Musical tastes? All over the map:

• Think Beach Boys' chill harmonies one minute…
• …and Eminem’s gritty edge the next.
• Margo’s playlist growing up was wildly eclectic, and you can hear it in her music today.

A walk through her songwriting journey:

• Her first songs? Not your typical teenage love ballads, more like deep dives into social issues that left early listeners both intrigued and a little confused.
• Over time, she and Buffalo Clover found their groove, blending folk, rock, and country while staying true to their roots.

Behind the scenes with the band:

• Working with her husband Jeremy Ivey added a whole other layer to the creative process.
• Co-writing with your spouse? Equal parts magic and madness—but it works for them.

The real talk:

• Margo opened up about the tougher stuff: motherhood, personal loss, and the ups and downs of the music biz.
• Their latest album, Low Down Time, became more than just a record: it was a lifeline, a way to process grief and find healing through music.

What listeners walked away with:

• A deeper look at Margo not just as a musician, but as a human being navigating real life with grace, grit, and a healthy dose of humor.
• A reminder that the best songs often come from the most personal places.

Chapters

• 00:09 - Introducing Margo Price
• 03:06 - The Evolution of Musical Influence
• 08:10 - The Evolution of Buffalo Clover
• 11:12 - Navigating Change: The Journey of Creativity and Loss
• 15:18 - Exploring Musical Identity
• 20:51 - Navigating the Music Scene

Takeaways

• Margo Price shares how her musical journey began with piano lessons, inspired by family musicians.
• The transition from piano to guitar was fueled by a desire to create original songs, showcasing her creative independence.
• Buffalo Clover's evolution reflects a blend of genres, mixing rock and country, creating a unique soundscape for listeners.
• Margo discusses the therapeutic nature of songwriting, especially after experiencing personal tragedies, highlighting music's healing power.
• The band's...