May 22, 2018
This week, two conversations with country music families at their heart. First, up a feature interview with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band co-founder Jeff Hanna and his wife, songwriter Matraca Berg. Matraca’s mother wrote songs and had other family in the business. She’s had a commanding career with numerous hits including the CMA song of the year 1997, “Strawberry Wine.” Berg is also a deeply respected recording artist who makes albums as exceptional as they are rare. Hanna migrated to Music City from California, but he’s got this family tradition thing down, evidence his son Jamie joining the newest iteration of the Dirt Band, which is touring with a new lineup after a profound shakeup. There’s a lot of news in our talk about the reconfiguration of that important group.
Later in the hour, Glen Campbell’s daughter Ashley Campbell steps out on her own with a debut solo album. She’s been recognized for her talents as a singer, songwriter and banjo player, but she’s been through one of the ultimate family challenges. The Lonely One balances roots, country and pop.