Country blues is a soulful and raw genre that blends the storytelling traditions of country music with the emotional depth of the blues. With its roots stretching back to the early 20th century, country blues has remained a beloved genre, offering listeners tales of heartache, hardship, love, and resilience. In this article, we explore some of the best radio stations dedicated to country blues, where fans can hear everything from classic recordings to contemporary interpretations. Each station offers a unique perspective on the genre, making them excellent resources for both casual listeners and die-hard blues aficionados.
12 Featured Country Blues Radio Stations to Follow
1. Blues Radio UK
Blues Radio UK is a fantastic online station dedicated to a wide range of blues music, including country blues. It’s a station that brings the best of traditional and modern blues to listeners around the globe. On this station, you’ll find gems like “Crossroad Blues” by Robert Johnson, one of the most influential tracks in the history of blues. The song’s haunting melody and Johnson’s raw guitar work embody the spirit of country blues, making it a perfect example of the music you’ll hear on Blues Radio UK. This station offers listeners a comprehensive journey through the blues landscape, featuring a variety of blues sub-genres.
2. The Blues Show on BBC Radio 2
Hosted by Cerys Matthews, The Blues Show on BBC Radio 2 delivers a rich mix of blues, including country blues, to its global audience. Matthews is a well-known blues enthusiast and musician, offering insight into the history and evolution of the genre. A frequently played song is “Matchbox Blues” by Blind Lemon Jefferson. This song, with its rolling guitar rhythm and Jefferson’s distinctive voice, captures the essence of the country blues sound. With Matthews’ deep knowledge of blues history, this station provides both education and entertainment for listeners who want to dive deep into the roots of the music.
3. KEXP 90.3 FM – The Roadhouse
KEXP is a Seattle-based radio station known for its eclectic mix of genres, and their show The Roadhouse is perfect for country blues lovers. Host Greg Vandy curates an impressive collection of traditional and modern blues, highlighting the storytelling and emotional depth of country blues artists. A standout song from the station’s playlist is “Baby Please Don’t Go” by Big Joe Williams. This song is a staple in country blues, with its powerful, repetitive riff and heartfelt lyrics. The Roadhouse delivers a great mix of familiar classics and new favorites that celebrate the raw beauty of the blues.
4. Radio Blues Intense
Radio Blues Intense is an online station that broadcasts an endless stream of blues music, with a strong emphasis on country blues. This station’s diverse playlist includes many legends of the genre, and one song that frequently appears is “Trouble in Mind” by Lightnin’ Hopkins. Hopkins’ guitar playing and laid-back vocal delivery make this a standout country blues track. Radio Blues Intense’s dedication to the blues, without interruptions or unnecessary commentary, makes it ideal for listeners who want to immerse themselves fully in the music.
5. The Country Blues Project on WXPN
WXPN, based out of Philadelphia, is renowned for its high-quality programming, and The Country Blues Project is no exception. The show explores both vintage and contemporary country blues, giving listeners a well-rounded experience. “Boll Weevil Blues” by Charley Patton is one of the classic songs regularly featured on this show. Patton’s deep, gravelly voice and rhythmic guitar playing bring to life the struggles of rural life, a theme central to country blues. This station offers a diverse selection of songs that highlight the connection between early blues and modern country music, making it a must-listen for fans of both genres.
6. B.B. King’s Bluesville on SiriusXM
B.B. King’s Bluesville on SiriusXM is a premier station for all things blues, including country blues. Named after the legendary bluesman, the station pays homage to the genre’s history while also showcasing newer blues talent. One of the station’s classic country blues tracks is “Canned Heat Blues” by Tommy Johnson. Johnson’s falsetto voice and intricate guitar work on this track are defining features of early country blues. B.B. King’s Bluesville is perfect for listeners who want to hear the full spectrum of blues, from acoustic country blues to electrified urban blues.
7. Blindman’s Blues Forum Radio
Blindman’s Blues Forum Radio is an online station run by passionate blues fans. It offers an eclectic mix of blues genres, with a strong focus on acoustic country blues. A popular track on this station is “Death Letter Blues” by Son House. Son House’s emotionally charged vocals and sparse slide guitar make this one of the most powerful blues songs ever recorded. Blindman’s Blues Forum Radio is unique in that it frequently includes rare live recordings and deep cuts, providing listeners with a well-rounded and immersive blues experience.
8. American Blues Scene Radio
American Blues Scene Radio is an online station that draws from the rich tradition of American blues, including country blues. They play both well-known artists and obscure musicians, offering listeners a mix of familiar favorites and hidden gems. One such hidden gem is “Cypress Grove” by Skip James. James’ high-pitched vocals and haunting guitar lines create an otherworldly feel that is a hallmark of his music. American Blues Scene Radio takes listeners on a journey through the many forms of blues, providing insight into the development of country blues and its impact on American music.
9. WWOZ 90.7 FM – New Orleans Blues
WWOZ is a community radio station based in New Orleans, famous for its dedication to jazz, blues, and roots music. The station’s blues programming, which frequently features country blues, is a treasure trove for music lovers. A song often heard on WWOZ is “Devil Got My Woman” by Skip James. James’ unique style and haunting voice make this one of the most compelling country blues tracks in history. WWOZ’s deep connection to American roots music and its commitment to showcasing local talent make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the history and future of the blues.
10. KMHD Jazz Radio – Blues in the Evening
KMHD is Portland’s home for jazz and blues, and their Blues in the Evening program is perfect for country blues fans. This station often features artists like Mississippi Fred McDowell, and one of the standout tracks is “You Gotta Move” by McDowell. This traditional blues song, performed with McDowell’s signature slide guitar, encapsulates the essence of country blues. KMHD offers listeners a mix of jazz and blues, creating a rich listening experience that highlights the intersection of these two genres.
11. Pandora’s Country Blues Radio Station
Pandora offers a wide range of personalized radio stations, and their Country Blues station is an excellent choice for anyone looking to discover both classic and contemporary country blues artists. A frequently played song is “In My Time of Dying” by Blind Willie Johnson. Johnson’s deep, gravelly voice and slide guitar create a mesmerizing sound that is central to the country blues tradition. Pandora’s algorithm curates a diverse playlist, ensuring that listeners are constantly exposed to new artists and songs while enjoying the classics.
12. Down Home Blues Radio
Down Home Blues Radio is an online station dedicated to traditional blues, with a particular focus on country blues. Their playlist includes many iconic artists, such as Reverend Gary Davis, whose song “I Am the Light of This World” is a staple of the genre. Davis’ fingerpicking guitar style and gospel-influenced vocals give this song a unique spiritual quality. Down Home Blues Radio offers a carefully curated selection of blues songs, providing listeners with an authentic experience of the genre.
See Also: Unraveling the Roots of the “High Lone Voice” in Country Music
Conclusion
Country blues remains one of the most influential and enduring genres of American music. Its raw emotion, storytelling, and distinctive musical style have left a lasting impact on the world of blues and beyond. Whether you’re listening to classic tracks by legends like Robert Johnson and Blind Lemon Jefferson, or discovering new artists on internet radio stations, the country blues continues to resonate with audiences. These radio stations provide a platform for the genre to thrive, ensuring that the rich traditions of country blues are passed down to future generations of music lovers. From traditional broadcasts to online platforms, there’s no shortage of places to hear the soulful sounds of country blues.
