Roots Rednecks and Radicals

Will Houk- Alt Country, Indie, Folk
  • 4.4 (16)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Explore the rebellious counterculture, hidden histories, and unexpected connections bridging the worlds of alt-country, indie rock, and punk music. Hosted by Will Houk, Roots, Rednecks, and Radicals is a music history podcast dedicated to the artists who subvert traditional genres and challenge the status quo. From deep dives into the working-class protest music of Woody Guthrie and Johnny Cash to the modern, trailblazing sounds of Orville Peck, Brandi Carlile, Charley Crockett, and Billy Strings, this show traces the thin line between outlaw country grit and independent DIY punk ethics. Whether analyzing classic americana, underground folk, bluegrass, or riot grrrl anthems, we uncover the radical roots behind the music you love. New episodes drop regularly featuring exclusive artist interviews, music journalism, and curated track roundups. Hit follow to join the rebellion and discover how "redneck" and "radical" belong together.

  1. 2d ago

    Beck's New Album Ride Lonesome Is An Introspective Journey!

    Beck is know for his hits like Loser and Devi'ls Haricut but many people don't realize he's always made folksy, singer-songwriter music. This new album has him exploring those roots on a deep and introspective journey. It's equal parts folk, and country. I really love this album. I hope you dig it!

  2. Sep 28

    Alex Orbison: Finishing a Lost Johnny Cash Song, Drumming for The Allman Betts Band, and His New Solo Album

    What happens when you discover a hidden 1960s love poem written by Johnny Cash? You put it to music. In this episode, we sit down with veteran drummer and songwriter Alex Orbison to discuss the release of his incredible debut solo album, Love And Loss.   Alex takes us behind the scenes of his standout new track, "Let's Put It To Music," revealing how he collaborated with John Carter Cash at the historic Cash Cabin to finish a lost piece of country music history written for June Carter Cash. We also dive deep into his life on the road as the powerhouse drummer for The Allman Betts Band, exploring how he locks down the rhythm section for one of the premier roots and Southern rock outfits touring today.    In this episode, you’ll discover: The incredible story behind turning an unreleased Johnny Cash poem into a brand-new song. What it's like recording at the legendary Cash Cabin with John Carter Cash. Alex's experiences stepping behind the kit to tour with The Allman Betts Band. The raw creative process and roots-rock influences behind his new solo album, Love And Loss. Stream Alex Orbison's latest music on all major platforms today!

  3. Sep 25

    Orville Peck's New Album Mule Is Some Of His Best Work

    Orville Peck has a new album out called Mule and it's really great. The sounds are sparse and contemplative. The songwriting ventures into territory he rarely explores. It has a collaboration with Emmylou Harris, Noah Cyrus, and Allison Russell.  Let's take a look at this record!

  4. Sep 23

    Phoebe Bridgers New Album Lost Weekend Is Phenomenal!

    I really love this album. The songwriting is amazing. The production is out of control. It's just an amazing record. This week we take a look at Lost Weekend by Phoebe Bridgers.

  5. Sep 14

    Shonen Knife Show Review!

    I was asked recently to do a concert review for the Japanese Punk Band Shonen Knife. They got their start back in 1981 and have been playing their Ramones infused punk rock for decades. In the early 1990s Kurt Cobain and Nirvana asked them to tour with the band, and that gave them some great exposure. I recently saw them with Men at Work and Toad the Wet Sprocket in Reno NV and it was a great show. I hope you dig this!

  6. Sep 7

    Aaron Lee Tasjan Has A New Album Out. Let's Take A Look!

    Aaron Lee Tasjan is an artist I have a great deal of respect for. His songwriting is inspired by artists like his mentor Todd Snider. It's a great blend of folk, country and rock that explores areas often looked over. His new album is out and has some fantastic songs on it. I hope you dig it everybody!

  7. Aug 31

    Nathan Evans Fox explores southern culture and history on his new album Heirloom.

    Nathan Evans Fox is an artist I've really been enjoying recently. He has a great songwriting approach, and his lyrics are exploring areas often looked over by other writers. I really appreciate his honesty and integrity, and his commitment to giving a voice to a perspective not often heard. Let's check out his new album Heirloom. I hope you dig it everybody!

  8. Aug 28

    RIP Dolly Parton!

    Dolly was an absolute icon. Her music career spanned decades and she left us with a wealth of songs she wrote and will always be remembered for. Her legacy is bigger than just her music. People remember her for so many things from her foundation that focussed on literacy, to her embrace of marginalized people. This is an episode I did a few years ago and I wanted to share it with you all again in honor of her memory. I hope you dig it!

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4.4
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Explore the rebellious counterculture, hidden histories, and unexpected connections bridging the worlds of alt-country, indie rock, and punk music. Hosted by Will Houk, Roots, Rednecks, and Radicals is a music history podcast dedicated to the artists who subvert traditional genres and challenge the status quo. From deep dives into the working-class protest music of Woody Guthrie and Johnny Cash to the modern, trailblazing sounds of Orville Peck, Brandi Carlile, Charley Crockett, and Billy Strings, this show traces the thin line between outlaw country grit and independent DIY punk ethics. Whether analyzing classic americana, underground folk, bluegrass, or riot grrrl anthems, we uncover the radical roots behind the music you love. New episodes drop regularly featuring exclusive artist interviews, music journalism, and curated track roundups. Hit follow to join the rebellion and discover how "redneck" and "radical" belong together.

Information

  • Creator
    Will Houk- Alt Country, Indie, Folk
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2019 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Roots Rednecks and Radicals

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