Each week we interview independent musicians about their career, the Music Business and their views of what is happening in their genre.
BillyBoy Miskimmin is a prominent figure in the Northern Ireland music scene since the 1980s, renowned for his harmonica skills and soulful performances. He gained international recognition with the band Nine Below Zero and later with The Yardbirds, collaborating with legendary artists and showcasing his versatility across various genres. His career reflects a deep commitment to the blues.
The Name Droppers, a blues-rock band from Connecticut, comprises seasoned musicians with impressive careers. Featuring Bobby “T” Torello on drums, Rafe Klein on guitar, Scott Spray on bass, and Ron Rifkin on keys, they blend authenticity and soul, creating a modern sound while honoring rock and blues legends. Their chemistry is electric.
Euphoria Station is a Los Angeles progressive rock band formed in 2015 by Saskia Kraft van Ermel and Hoyt Binder. Their music blends Americana, rock, jazz, and folk, characterized by storytelling and emotive melodies. Their albums, including One Heart, The Reverie Suite, and Smoking Gun, showcase their evolving sound and commitment to heartfelt, complex music.
Sari Schorr, a Blues-Rock artist recognized for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, emerged with her debut album “A Force of Nature.” Her music reflects personal struggles and global issues, emphasizing unity and compassion. Beyond music, she engages in humanitarian work and advocates for various social causes, embodying resilience and activism.
Andy B., lead singer of The VooDUDES, launched a solo project with producer John Pittas, resulting in the album “My Roots Are Showing.” It features diverse American roots sounds, showcasing Andy’s storytelling and unique voice. His music garners international airplay and has contributed significantly to the New Jersey music scene.
Ra’Shad the Blues Kid, born Larry McGill in 1987 in Mississippi, transitioned from sports to music following a knee injury. Influenced by soul and blues, he formed The Groove Band and gained recognition with his singles and albums. His impactful works and collaborations reflect genuine experiences, leading to numerous accolades and recognition in the blues community.
Star Collector is a Vancouver-based rock & roll band known for high-energy performances and a melodic sound. With extensive touring and collaborations with prominent musicians, they blend classic and modern influences. Despite changes in their rhythm section, their consistent vision and energy establish them as enduring figures in indie rock.
The Resurrection Blues Band, acclaimed for their versatile blend of blues and rock, won the Herald-Palladium Readers’ Choice Award in 2024. Their latest EP, released in May 2025, showcases groundbreaking tracks and will be followed by another in late 2025. They connect deeply with audiences through heartfelt storytelling and genre-crossing music.
The Gravel Project, led by Andrew Gravel, is a dynamic band rooted in rock, blues, and psychedelia, expressing passion through music. Their latest album, Find What You Need, explores complex themes of relationships, showcasing collaborative songwriting. Known for electrifying live performances, the band embodies a strong sense of brotherhood and dedication to their craft.
Revenant, formed in 2023, is a UK rock band known for their powerhouse sound with southern influences. Their debut EP, What A Time To Be Alive, released in May 2024, received critical acclaim. Their music blends various styles and tells compelling stories, resonating with fans. A busy touring schedule lies ahead, promising further success.
Ævn’s music, rooted in trip-hop and lo-fi, reflects a personal journey infused with influences from artists like Portishead and Joji. Blending moody textures and cinematic atmospheres, each track tells a story, inviting listeners into an evocative sonic landscape. Ævn’s new album offers a modern musical experience that resonates beyond listening.
Joshua Espinoza, a Latino-American jazz pianist, leads the Joshua Espinoza Trio, blending jazz with classical, pop, and folk influences. Their acclaimed music has gained recognition on Spotify’s State of Jazz playlist and Global Jazz Charts. Based in Baltimore, Espinoza is also a faculty member at the Peabody Institute.
Jessey Jackson, a unique force in Australia’s music scene, is a self-taught singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her soulful vocals and diverse performances. With three albums and a fourth in production, Jessey captivates audiences through her emotive lyrics and dedicated performances across various venues, establishing her impactful presence in the industry.
Vigdis & Blå Tråd, a Norwegian band, merge Nordic folk traditions with blues and roots music. Led by Vigdis, their sound blends heartfelt storytelling and electrifying melodies. Their energetic performances celebrate authenticity, as they create a unique space in the modern roots scene, interweaving folk heritage with global influences through their “blue thread.”
Doc Bowling & His Blues Professors are a powerful blues band known for their authentic sound that blends Delta and Chicago blues with elements of soul, rock, and swing. Led by experienced vocalist and guitarist Doc Bowling, they deliver emotionally charged performances that educate and connect deeply with their audiences.
Michael Allman, son of Gregg Allman, has established his unique presence in blues and rock. Based in Florida, his debut album Hard Labor Creek showcases his rich vocals and authentic songwriting. Known for passionate performances, Michael tours across the U.S., honoring his heritage while crafting his own musical legacy.
Lord Bolt is a Swedish musician known for his eclectic blend of blues, rockabilly, jazz, swing, and country. His upcoming album, Cookin’ & Dancin’, captures the essence of ’50s R&B while maintaining modern flair. Rejecting mainstream trends, he focuses on authentic music filled with emotion, storytelling, and unique artistry.
Mary Strand, initially aspiring to various careers, discovered a passion for writing after practicing law. Her debut novel, “Cooper’s Folly,” won an award, prompting her to pursue writing further, alongside music. Living in Minneapolis with her family, Strand balances her creative pursuits with playful interests and an admiration for adventure.
Johnny Iguana, a Chicago-based musician and composer, is known for his original score in the series The Bear. Starting piano at eight, he grew up in Philadelphia and later toured with blues legends. He leads the band The Claudettes and has received multiple award nominations for his contributions to music and blues.
Brad “Guitar” Wilson is an emerging blues rock artist known for his exceptional guitar skills and captivating stage presence. His 2022 self-titled album gained significant acclaim, leading to international recognition. The 2023 follow-up, Lovers Before Sunrise, further solidified his reputation, featuring multiple hits and collaborations with notable musicians, enhancing his dynamic performances.
Yates McKendree, a talented multi-instrumentalist and son of Grammy producer Kevin McKendree, is gaining acclaim in the blues genre. His debut album, Buchanan Lane, showcases his authentic musicianship. At only 23, he’s already toured extensively, received a Grammy, and is set to release his next album, Need To Know, in 2025.
UK rock artist Slyder Smith releases his new single “Nobody’s Listening” on August 15, 2025, addressing the struggle for connection in a distracted world. Produced by Robin Wynn Evans, the track combines gritty rock with emotional depth. Slyder, known from Last Great Dreamers, is evolving as a solo artist with an upcoming album in 2026.
Blind Lemon Pledge, the musical persona of James Byfield, has gained acclaim with his 2021 album “A Satchel Full of Blues,” topping blues charts. A lifelong musician influenced by various genres, Byfield’s work spans Blues, Folk, and Jazz. His unique compositions have earned numerous awards and international recognition.
Matt Schofield, a renowned British blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, has built an esteemed career spanning over 30 years. With multiple awards and critical acclaim, his distinctive playing style and engaging performances have influenced many artists. Schofield also educates other musicians and is set to release a new project soon.
Andrea Dawson, an emerging Australian singer-songwriter from Adelaide, partners with artist Gwyn Ashton to create her debut album, “Tales From A Dirt Road.” Featuring notable musicians, the 16-track album blends blues and rock, highlighting her authenticity. Dawson aims to break into the music scene, showcasing her powerful voice and storytelling.
Eric Wilson Adams, a pivotal figure in South Dakota’s rock scene, began with the band COCOON in 1969. Their raw, energetic performances led to a Hall of Fame induction in 2018. Transitioning to solo work, Adams’ 2025 album “Losing Ground” showcases his storytelling and authenticity, blending rock, country, and blues.
Emma Wilson, an acclaimed vocalist and songwriter from England’s North East, fuses blues energy with the elegance of Aretha Franklin. Her debut album, Wish Her Well, won the UK Blues Awards’ “Emerging Blues Artist of the Year” in 2022. Known for her engaging performances, she collaborates with notable musicians in the blues genre.
Gerry Casey interviews Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes, who rose to fame as Cold Chisel’s frontman in the 1970s and has since achieved unprecedented success as a solo artist with 19 number one albums. A bestselling author and ARIA Hall of Fame inductee, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances.
Christopher Wyze & the Tellers, formed in 2022, emerged on the global blues scene with their debut album, Stuck in the Mud, which includes the RMR #1 single “Back to Clarksdale.” After a successful songwriting collaboration, they made their live debut in 2024, releasing a CD/DVD set capturing their performance and documenting their musical journey.
Alan Arena, a seasoned musician, captures the essence of rock and blues in his long-awaited album, Fortune Wheel. After decades of songwriting rooted in genuine experiences, Arena’s 12 tracks blend grit and authenticity. His music resonates with a timeless quality, showcasing a deep commitment to storytelling without conforming to industry trends.
WANTED, formed in 2021 in Leonard, Michigan, aims to revive 1980s heavy metal with their energetic sound. Their debut album, “Chain Reaction,” and sophomore release, “Late Attraction,” both received 9/10 ratings from Metal Forces Magazine and have gained significant streaming success. The band embodies the spirit of traditional metal, ready to make a global impact.
Kim Field is a renowned harmonica player, singer, and songwriter known for his performances with The Perfect Gentlemen and at major music festivals. He has shared stages with blues legends and authored notable works on music history, reflecting his expertise in American roots music through various publications.
Stephen Jacques is an acclaimed alt-rock artist with ten albums and an upcoming eleventh. Influenced by a rich musical heritage, he writes and performs in Charlottesville, Virginia. His song “Send Them Love” is popular across over 300 radio stations. His next album, “Groove Atlantic-O,” releases in summer 2023.
Rusty Ends embodies the connection between the rock and blues of the past and modern music. After a vibrant career featuring various bands and notable performances, he paused around 2010 but returned rejuvenated after playing at church services. Now, he offers a distinctive blend of genres he calls Hillbilly Hoo Doo.
Reverend Freakchild, an eclectic musician inspired by Holy Blues, blends irreverence and soul in his solo acoustic performances. With collaborations across genres and a spiritual album titled Songs of Beauty for Ashes of Realization, he emphasizes music’s transcendental power. A graduate of Northeastern and Naropa University, he currently resides in Colorado.
Clarence Tilton, the Omaha band, returns with their new album Queen of the Brawl, showcasing rich harmonies and storytelling that reflects the American Midwest. Featuring guest appearances by Marty Stuart and Presley Tucker, the album blends alt-country with personal narratives, highlighting the band’s deep roots and musical influences.
At 94, Bob Stroger continues to tour and gain recognition for his contributions to blues music, recently becoming the oldest inductee into the Blues Hall of Fame. His career spans decades, marked by collaborations with blues legends and a commitment to mentoring emerging musicians, proving that passion for music transcends age.
Rusty Ends, a musician bridging 1950s rock and blues with modern sounds, began in rough bars along Dixie Highway. He gained fame in the 1960s, recording a hit with Cooper ‘n’ Brass. After a hiatus, he returned to music, blending genres into his unique style called Hillbilly Hoo Doo.
Mercedes Nicole is a dynamic vocalist whose music radiates passion, soul, and emotional truth. With more than a decade of live performance experience and four acclaimed studio albums under her belt, she has crafted a sound that not only entertains but uplifts. Her voice has become a vessel for healing, hope, and the kind of high-energy connection that leaves audiences feeling inspired and seen.
The Scarlet Goodbye, featuring Minnesota musicians Dan Murphy and Jeff Arundel, recently released their acclaimed album Hopes Eternal. Their upcoming second album, El Camino Adios, set to drop on March 14, 2025, explores themes of change through poignant storytelling. The single “Raylene” demonstrates their artistic depth and emotional resonance.
Vince Santoro is a veteran drummer, vocalist, and songwriter based in Nashville, known for his role with Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals and commitment to musicians’ rights as Secretary/Treasurer of the Nashville Musicians Association. With a diverse career spanning over five decades, he recently released his solo album, Exposed, showcasing his storytelling and musical talents.
Katy Tessman is a singer-songwriter whose music, steeped in personal experiences of survival and resilience, blends Americana and folk-rock. With her rich voice, she resonates deeply with audiences through uplifting themes. Her momentum in the Minnesota music scene continues, highlighted by her 2023 album Fly and the publication of her acclaimed children’s book.
Emma Wilson, a talented soul and blues singer from North East England, captivates audiences with her expressive voice and heartfelt performances. Her debut album, “Wish Her Well,” earned her the Emerging Blues Artist of the Year award. Collaborating with renowned musicians, her follow-up, “Memphis Calling,” showcases her musical versatility and depth, solidifying her place in the industry.
From the Dirt is an Americana band from central Maryland, merging diverse influences like bluegrass and Celtic folk. Fronted by Dan Kenny, their music emphasizes storytelling with rich imagery and emotional depth. Their next album, Colored Edge of Memory, releases on May 2, 2025, featuring collaborations with notable musicians, showcasing their evolving sound.
Lisa Mann, a two-time Blues Music Award winner from Portland, blends southern warmth and rock dynamics in her powerful blues vocals. Drawing inspiration from legends, she crafts authentic songs and performs with notable artists. Beyond music, she mentors neuro-diverse performers, showcasing versatility in various projects, including traditional metal and symphonic rock.
Gwyn Ashton is a dynamic Australian alt-blues rock guitarist, singer, and one-man band, known for electrifying performances and a new album, Mojosoul. He tours extensively internationally and collaborates with renowned artists. With a gritty sound and magnetic stage presence, Ashton is celebrated among blues rock legends and continues to push musical boundaries.
Ernie Palmer, a retired elementary school teacher from Cartersville, Georgia, reflects on his life filled with stories, music, and family. Married for 48 years, he cherishes time with his wife Gale, their daughters, and grandsons. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing, Vietnam experience, and Texas songwriting, he now focuses on writing songs and traveling.
Davis Coen’s tenth album, “These Things Shall Pass,” explores spiritual themes through a mix of classic hymns and original songs, including collaborations with Patrick McClary. Coen’s music blends contemporary country-blues, influenced by his Southern roots and extensive touring. His work has received notable media recognition and features across various platforms.
The British Broadcasting Corporation is an exceptional band featuring seasoned musicians Bob Cranham, Dave Williamson, Ben Keen, and Barry Cook. Known for their extensive experience and humor, they deliver a unique sound. Each member has a rich background, collaborating with notable artists and showcasing versatility in various genres.
Alison Tucker, a talented singer-songwriter from Austin, Texas, captivates listeners with her relatable and vivid lyrics. Her debut album, “Where You Used to Be,” showcases her rich alto voice and storytelling ability. She will embark on her Second Chance Tour in spring 2025, further connecting with audiences through her music.