The Real Americana with Louise & Blair

What was The Last Waltz, who were The Band, and why do they matter so much? We explore a remarkable story of musical brilliance, success, excess, tragedy and internal squabbles. From their early days with Ronnie Hawkins, through their recording and touring years with Bob Dylan, to the legendary farewell concert captured by Martin Scorsese, it's a tale of five extraordinary musicians – and some of the greatest music ever recorded.

In this episode of The Real Americana with Louise & Blair, we explore the music of Phoebe Bridgers, from the intimate indie folk of "Stranger in the Alps" to the adventurous sounds of her new album, "Lost Weekend". Along the way, we discuss boygenius, her remarkable collaborations, the stories behind her songs and the fine line between personal confession and artistic imagination. We finish with a just released Felice Brothers cover.

Cassandra Wilson recently passed away aged 70, leaving behind an extraordinary body of work. In this episode of The Real Americana with Louise & Blair, we explore her remarkable voice, her jazz, blues, folk & country influences, her Grammy-winning album "New Moon Daughter", and her ability to cross musical boundaries. We also look at her songwriting, her influence on other artists, and hear interpretations of Van Morrison and Billie Holiday classics alongside other great songs.

Patty Griffin is a songwriter whose music is direct, honest and deeply human. In this episode of The Real Americana with Louise & Blair, we explore her unlikely Motown and Smiths influences, the Americana award-winning "Children Running Through", and songs about love, family and everyday life. We also talk about her battle with cancer, the impact it had on her voice, her relationship with her mother, and finish with her beautiful take on Tom Waits’ “Ruby’s Arms”.

Bruce Cockburn is one of Canada’s great singer-songwriters - a phenomenal guitarist, traveller and observer whose songs have explored love, spirituality, politics, human rights and the environment. In this episode of The Real Americana with Louise & Blair, we follow his journey from “Going to the Country” and “Wondering Where The Lions Are” through “Lovers in a Dangerous Time” and “If A Tree Falls”, finishing with the beautiful “Pacing the Cage”.