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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.

This week’s episode is a special family edition of The Hometown Bluegrass Show as Josh is joined by his son, Wheldon, behind the mic. The two share conversation, laughs, and a deep love for traditional bluegrass that runs generations deep. Josh delivers a heartfelt performance of the timeless classic “Wayfaring Stranger,” reminding us why these old songs still speak so powerfully today. We’re also excited to welcome newcomer Jackson Harris to the show. Jackson sits down with Josh and Wheldon to talk about his latest music, his journey into bluegrass, and what inspires his sound as a rising artist in the genre. From family ties to fresh voices, Episode 87 is all about honoring tradition while looking ahead to the future of bluegrass.

In Episode 86 of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh talk about upcoming bluegrass festivals and events you won’t want to miss. Josh plays the Tony Rice classic “Old Train”, and the guys discuss its lasting influence. Plus, we’re joined by special guest Aaron McDaris, who shares stories from his time playing alongside Josh and with Rhonda Vincent.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, hosts Tim Batts and Josh Williams sit down with Jamie Johnson of The Grascals for an honest conversation that goes far beyond the music. Jamie and Josh Williams open up about their personal journeys through addiction, recovery, and redemption. With transparency and humility, they discuss the struggles they faced, the turning points that changed their lives, and how faith, support, and bluegrass music played a role in their healing. The conversation highlights how music can be both an escape and a lifeline, offering hope not only to artists but to listeners walking similar roads. Jamie also shares reflections on life on the road, brotherhood in bluegrass, and how recovery has reshaped his perspective on music, family, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that bluegrass is more than notes and harmonies—it’s a community, a testimony, and a place where real stories matter.

The Hometown Bluegrass Show – Episode #84 Guest: Colton Baker (Authentic Unlimited) In this episode, Josh and Tim sit down for a fun and wide-ranging conversation with Colton Baker, lead singer of Authentic Unlimited. Colton shares stories from the road, insights into the band’s journey, and what it’s like helping shape the sound and direction of one of today’s most exciting bluegrass groups. Along the way, the guys talk about songwriting, group dynamics, and the importance of staying authentic—both on stage and off. As always, there’s plenty of laughter, great music, and genuine bluegrass camaraderie that makes this episode feel like you’re just hanging out with friends.

This week, Josh Williams didn’t just bring great music — he brought family. Hearing Josh sing alongside his two sons was a powerful reminder of what bluegrass is all about: passing songs, faith, and tradition from one generation to the next. There’s something truly moving about a father sharing the mic with his children, harmonies blending with love, respect, and a shared passion for the music. These are the moments that make this music timeless and keep our roots growing strong. If you believe in family, tradition, and music that means something, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

Episode #82 brings a special pre-Christmas feel to The Hometown Bluegrass Show. Josh shares a heartfelt performance of the Gordon Lightfoot classic “Song for a Winter’s Night,” perfectly capturing the season. We’re also joined by young bluegrass rising star Molly Clair, who talks about her musical journey and what’s ahead. A warm episode of great music and conversation just in time for Christmas.

On this episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh sings a classic song from Keith Whitley, highlighting the roots of traditional bluegrass and its lasting influence. We also sit down for a fun and engaging conversation with veteran bluegrass sound engineer and IBMA Award Winner Steve Chandler , who shares stories from behind the soundboard and offers insight into what it takes to make bluegrass music sound its best on stage and in the studio.

In Episode #80 of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim sits down with one of today’s most exciting voices and instrumentalists in modern bluegrass—Rick Faris. Known for his lightning-fast picking, unmistakable vocal style, and award-winning songwriting, Rick joins us for a lively and heartfelt conversation about music, family, faith, and life on the road. Rick shares stories from his early days playing with his family band, his years touring with Special Consensus, and the creative journey behind his custom guitar building. We dig into his songwriting process, influences, and what continues to inspire him as he pushes the boundaries of traditional and contemporary bluegrass.

Thanksgiving Special Edition In this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh gather around the microphones with a spirit of gratitude, great stories, and the high lonesome sound your family loves. This week’s show is packed with reflections on the blessings of the past year, plus Josh pays tribute to the legendary Tony Rice with a beautiful rendition of “Streets of London,” capturing the tone and soul that made Tony’s version unforgettable. As we wrap up this Thanksgiving special, we want to extend our appreciation to every listener who tunes in, shares the show, or supports bluegrass music in your hometown. From our family to yours—thank you. May your holiday be filled with good food, good company, and good music.

In Episode 78, Josh kicks off the show with a timeless Michael Martin Murphey classic, “Carolina in the Pines,” showcasing one of the most beloved cross-genre gems that found its way into the bluegrass world. We’re also joined by a special guest and true ambassador of bluegrass music, Austin Scelzo from Connecticut. Austin is a fiddle player, educator, and organizer who has been instrumental in growing the Northeastern bluegrass community. We talk about his work with the Bluegrass Academy, his passion for teaching, and how he keeps traditional music thriving in a region not always associated with bluegrass.

Tim was out of town this week, so Josh took the controls—and he brought in a special co-host: his son, Wheldon! 👏 These two held down the studio with great music, fun stories, and plenty of laughs. It’s a father-son takeover you won’t want to miss! Tune in now to this week’s episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show and enjoy some great bluegrass straight from our family to yours. 💙🎻

In this week’s episode, Josh spins a little Keith Whitley for all you classic bluegrass and country fans, setting the perfect tone for a conversation with Shawn Camp — the acclaimed country and bluegrass artist known for his soulful voice, powerful songwriting, and deep roots in traditional music. Tim and Josh chat with Shawn about his career journey, his work with legends like Bill Monroe and the Osborne Brothers, and how he bridges the worlds of bluegrass and country with authenticity and heart. You’ll hear stories from the road, songwriting insights, and a few laughs along the way.

In this milestone 75th episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Tim and Josh celebrate traditional sounds and heartfelt storytelling. Josh kicks things off with a classic from Bill Anderson, setting the tone for a show filled with warmth, roots, and real bluegrass spirit. Then, Tim and Josh welcome special guests Heather Berry Mabe and Tony Mabe—two incredible artists known for their beautiful harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and deep connection to traditional bluegrass. The husband-and-wife duo share stories about their musical journey, their time performing with Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice, and the creative spark behind their new project, Red Camel Collective.

🎙️ Episode 74 – A Tom T. Hall Classic & Catching Up with Former Special C Members In this week’s episode of The Hometown Bluegrass Show, Josh takes us on a trip down memory lane with a Tom T. Hall classic — a songwriter who captured the heart and humor of everyday life like no other. Then, things get personal as Josh reconnects with two former Special Consensus bandmates — Jamie Clifton and Tim Dishman. Together they share stories from their days on the road, the lessons learned from the bluegrass circuit, and what they’ve been up to since their time with Special C. Expect laughter, great music, and behind-the-scenes insight into one of bluegrass music’s most respected touring bands. 🪕 Featured Segments: Tom T. Hall Spotlight: A look at the song that shaped generations of country and bluegrass storytellers. Interview with Jamie Clifton & Tim Dishman: Old friends reunite to talk harmony singing, road stories, and the enduring brotherhood of bluegrass. Listener Requests & Local Picks: A few favorites from the Hometown Bluegrass family. Catch The Hometown Bluegrass Show every week with hosts Josh Williams and Tim Batts, where tradition meets today’s bluegrass sound.