The Bus Stop Blues’s Podcast

thebusstopblues
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The Bus Stop Blues podcast, a three times a week radio show broadcasted from live and recorded at 98.3 FM – The Life radio station in Northern Lake County, Illinois from 7pm on Tuesday's, Thursday's and Sunday nights. The show features blues inspired music, with originals from Kevin Purcell & The Nightburners as well as Blues legends from today and yesteryear. The show includes “Tales From The Road” a recurring feature, plus witty conversations from your hosts and special in studio guests.

  1. 1d ago

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #132 “A Chapter in the History of The Blues” Featuring: Koko Taylor

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #132 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 08/06/26 - A Chapter in the History of the Blues: Koko Taylor Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill   The Bus Stop Blues – Episode 132 Air Date: August 6, 2026 This week on The Bus Stop Blues, Road Bill and Kevin present another installment of "A Chapter in the History of the Blues," celebrating the incomparable Koko Taylor, the undisputed Queen of the Blues. From her humble beginnings on a Tennessee farm to becoming the powerful voice of Chicago electric blues, Koko Taylor built a legendary career defined by grit, soul, and unmatched stage presence. Throughout the evening, Road and Kevin explore her remarkable journey, her decades with Alligator Records, and the lasting influence she had on generations of blues musicians. The show features some of Koko's greatest recordings, including "Wang Dang Doodle," "I'm A Woman," "Voodoo Woman," "Insane Asylum," "Hey Bartender," "Come To Mama," "Born Under A Bad Sign," "Jump For Joy," "Let The Good Times Roll," and closes with "Blues Hotel." If you love powerful vocals, classic Chicago blues, and the stories behind the legends who shaped American music, you won't want to miss this episode of The Bus Stop Blues.   Song List Wang Dang Doodle – Koko Taylor (4:24) I'm A Woman – Koko Taylor (4:34) Voodoo Woman – Koko Taylor (3:48) Insane Asylum – Koko Taylor (4:23) Hey Bartender – Koko Taylor (2:53) Come To Mama – Koko Taylor (4:48) Born Under A Bad Sign – Koko Taylor (4:56) Jump For Joy – Koko Taylor (4:20) Let The Good Times Roll – Koko Taylor (3:02) Blues Hotel – Koko Taylor (4:04)

  2. 5d ago

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #131 - W/ Special Guest: Howard Levy w/Don Laferty

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #130 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 08/02/26 - with special guest Howard Levy w/Don Laferty Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill  The Bus Stop Blues Episode 131 | August 2, 2026 Guest: Howard Levy with Don Laferty This week, The Bus Stop Blues welcomes a true musical innovator as Road Bill and Kevin sit down with Grammy Award-winning harmonica virtuoso Howard Levy, joined by longtime friend and fellow musician Don Laferty. Recognized around the world for revolutionizing the diatonic harmonica through his groundbreaking overblow technique, Howard has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning blues, jazz, folk, rock, classical, and world music. As a founding member of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, his creativity and musicianship have inspired countless players and expanded the possibilities of the harmonica. Throughout the evening, Howard and Don share stories from decades of performing, discuss Howard's remarkable musical journey, and cap off the night with an unforgettable live jam session alongside Kevin. Tonight's Playlist: Buddy Whittington – The Put-on Song Carlos Del Junco – Walkin' Blues Howard Levy – The Train to Bangalore Howard Levy – This Land Is Your Land Join us for an evening of incredible stories, world-class musicianship, and one of the finest harmonica players ever to grace the stage. Hop aboard the Big Bus for another memorable ride on The Bus Stop Blues!

  3. Jul 28

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #130 - W/ Special Guest: Emily and Jeremy Beyer from – New Vintage Strings

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #130 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/26/26 - with special guest Emily and Jeremy Beyer from - New Vintage Strings Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    The Bus Stop Blues Episode 130 | July 26, 2026 Guest: Jeremy & Emily Beyer of New Vintage Strings This week on The Bus Stop Blues, Road Bill and Kevin welcome Jeremy and Emily Beyer of New Vintage Strings for an evening of great conversation, stories from the road, and outstanding music. Known throughout the Midwest for their rich harmonies and exceptional musicianship, Jeremy and Emily have built a loyal following by blending bluegrass, folk, Americana, Celtic, country, and acoustic favorites into a sound that is uniquely their own. During the show, they share their musical journey, discuss life as a performing husband-and-wife duo, and talk about the inspiration behind New Vintage Strings. The night's playlist reflects the duo's wide-ranging musical influences, featuring everything from blues legends Bobby Rush and Buddy Guy to Radiohead, Neil Young, Black Sabbath, David Bowie, Andrew Bird, Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová, and Bonnie Raitt. Whether you're a fan of blues, folk, Americana, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tonight's Playlist: Bobby Rush – Bowlegged Woman, Knock-Kneed Man Bonnie Raitt – Gnawin' On It Radiohead – Karma Police Neil Young – Heart of Gold Black Sabbath – Children of the Grave David Bowie – Life on Mars? Andrew Bird – Pulaski at Night Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová – When Your Mind's Made Up Buddy Guy – What Kind of Woman Is This Hop aboard the Big Bus and join Road Bill, Kevin, and special guests Jeremy and Emily Beyer for another memorable ride on The Bus Stop Blues!

  4. Jul 25

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #129 “A Chapter in the History of The Blues” Featuring: R.L. Burnside

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #129 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/23/26 - A Chapter in the history of the Blues: R.L. Burnside Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    The Bus Stop Blues: A Chapter in the History of the Blues, R.L. Burnside Episode 129 | July 23, 2026 A Chapter in the History of the Blues: R.L. Burnside This week, Road Bill and Kevin continue their A Chapter in the History of the Blues series by exploring the life and music of one of the most influential figures in North Mississippi hill country blues, R.L. Burnside. Known for his hypnotic guitar rhythms, raw vocals, and unforgettable storytelling, Burnside spent decades preserving a unique blues tradition before gaining worldwide recognition later in life. His music inspired generations of artists and helped introduce hill country blues to a new audience through groundbreaking recordings like Come On In. Throughout the show, Road Bill and Kevin trace Burnside's remarkable journey, from his Mississippi roots to international acclaim, while showcasing some of his most iconic recordings. Tonight's Playlist: R.L. Burnside – Goin' Down South R.L. Burnside – Shake 'Em On Down R.L. Burnside – Skinny Woman R.L. Burnside – Poor Black Mattie R.L. Burnside – Jumper Hanging Out On The Line R.L. Burnside – Rollin' & Tumblin' R.L. Burnside – Long Haired Doney R.L. Burnside – Someday Baby R.L. Burnside – Come On In R.L. Burnside – It's Bad You Know Join us as we celebrate the life, legacy, and unmistakable sound of R.L. Burnside, a true master of the blues whose music continues to captivate listeners around the world.

  5. Jul 25

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #128 The Music Show (Charlie Slavik, The Drunk Whisperers, Jimmy Nick, The Allman Brothers, Arc Angels, Tedeschi Trucks, ZZ Top, Samantha Fish and SRV)

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #128 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/21/26 - The Music Show Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    The Bus Stop Blues Episode 128 | July 21, 2026 The Music Show All aboard! This week, Road Bill and Kevin are back behind the microphones for another edition of The Music Show, serving up an eclectic mix of blues, blues rock, Southern rock, and classic rock favorites. The evening features music from Charlie Slavik, The Drunk Whisperers, Jimmy Nick, The Allman Brothers, Arc Angels, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Bad Company, ZZ Top, Samantha Fish, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Along the way, Road Bill and Kevin share stories from the road, discuss the artists and their music, and keep the conversation rolling between sets. Whether you're a longtime blues fan or just looking for great music to fill your evening, climb aboard the Big Bus and enjoy another two hours of outstanding tunes and good company. Tonight's Playlist: Charlie Slavik – Devil Inside The Drunk Whisperers – Zydeco Jimmy Nick – Evil I Need The Allman Brothers Band – Trouble No More Arc Angels – See What Tomorrow Brings Tedeschi Trucks Band – Shrimp and Grits Bad Company – Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy ZZ Top – Jesus Just Left Chicago Samantha Fish – Crowd Control Stevie Ray Vaughan – Cold Shot

  6. Jul 21

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #127 - W/ Special Guest: Heather Moran with Chris Grant and Mike Church

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #127 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/19/26 - with special guest Heather Moran (Bluewater Creek) with Chris Grant and Mike Church Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    Episode 127 - The Bus Stop Blues Date: July 19, 2026 Guests: Heather Moran (Bluewater Creek) & Mike Church Episode 127 of The Bus Stop Blues welcomes two familiar faces aboard the Big Bus for an evening of outstanding music, great conversation, and plenty of live performances. Road Bill and Kevin are joined by Heather Moran, lead vocalist of Bluewater Creek, along with returning friend of the show Mike Church, who sits in on guitar to cap off the night with some memorable live jamming. Heather shares the artists and songs that shaped her musical journey, from the powerful vocals of Stevie Nicks, Nina Simone, and Diana Krall to modern favorites by Lake Street Dive, Brandi Carlile, Sara Bareilles, and Bruno Mars. Along the way, listeners are treated to two special performances by Heather herself, showcasing the talent and versatility that have made her and Bluewater Creek favorites throughout the Chicagoland music scene. The evening's soundtrack also features classics from Elvis Presley and Three Dog Night, along with music by Robert Lester Folsom, creating a show that blends blues, rock, jazz, soul, pop, and Americana into one unforgettable ride. Featured Songs Elvis Presley – Hound Dog Three Dog Night – Mama Told Me (Not to Come) Stevie Nicks – Edge of Seventeen Nina Simone – I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl Diana Krall – Frim Fram Sauce Heather Moran – Cry Me a River (Live Performance) Lake Street Dive – Hypotheticals Brandi Carlile – The Story Robert Lester Folsom – My Stove's on Fire Sara Bareilles – She Used to Be Mine Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak & Silk Sonic – Leave the Door Open Heather Moran – Miss Celie's Blues (Live Performance) From timeless classics and modern inspirations to live music in the studio, Episode 127 captures everything The Bus Stop Blues is about: celebrating great musicians, sharing stories from the road, and bringing listeners a front-row seat to the music that moves us. So grab your ticket, settle into your favorite seat on the Big Bus, and enjoy another unforgettable journey through the world of live music.

  7. Jul 18

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #126 “A Chapter in the History of The Blues” Featuring: Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #126 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/16/26 - A Chapter in the History of the Blues: Sonny Terry & Brownie McGee Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    Episode 126 - A Chapter in the History of the Blues: Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee Date: July 16, 2026 Episode 126 of The Bus Stop Blues shines a spotlight on one of the greatest partnerships in blues history as Road Bill and Kevin present another installment of A Chapter in the History of the Blues, featuring the legendary duo of Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee. For more than four decades, Sonny Terry's energetic harmonica playing and Brownie McGhee's smooth vocals and masterful guitar work helped bring the sounds of Piedmont and country blues to audiences around the world. Their music bridged the gap between the rural blues traditions of the South and the folk revival movement of the 1950s and 1960s, influencing countless musicians along the way. Throughout the episode, Road and Kevin explore the lives, music, and enduring legacy of these two blues giants through songs that tell stories of hard times, the open road, friendship, perseverance, and hope. From train songs and spirituals to drinking tunes and heartfelt blues, this episode captures the warmth, humor, and authenticity that made Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee beloved figures in American music. Featured Songs Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Key To The Highway Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – When I Was Drinking Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Po' Boy Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Drinkin' In The Blues Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Down By The Riverside Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Cornbread, Peas and Black Molasses Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Midnight Special Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Blues For The Lowland Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – Early In The Morning Blues Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee – I Was Born With The Blues Climb aboard the Big Bus as we journey back to the front porches, railroad tracks, and folk festivals that helped shape the sound of American blues. Episode 126 is a celebration of two masters whose music continues to echo through every harmonica wail and every acoustic blues guitar played today.

  8. Jul 16

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #125 The Music Show (Tom Holland, Sadie Johnson, Kings and Assc, Cream, Edgar Winter, The Nighthawks, Blues Brothers, SRV, Samantha Fish and Lynyrd Skynyrd)

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #125 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/14/26 - The Music Show Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    Episode 125 of The Bus Stop Blues delivers another exciting edition of The Music Show, with Road Bill and Kevin taking listeners on a musical road trip filled with blues, rock, and a few hidden gems along the way. This week's ride features a terrific mix of local and legendary artists, beginning with Tom Holland, Sadie Johnson, and Kings and Associates before diving into classics from Cream, Edgar Winter, and The Nighthawks. The second half of the show keeps the wheels turning with favorites from the Blues Brothers, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Samantha Fish, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. From Chicago blues and Texas guitar fire to Southern rock and modern blues voices, Episode 125 is packed with great songs, lively conversation, and the kind of musical discoveries that make every ride aboard the Big Bus a little different. Featured Songs Tom Holland – More Things Change Sadie Johnson – Natural Distractions Kings and Associates – Nitty Gritty Cream – Born Under A Bad Sign Edgar Winter – Give It Everything You Got The Nighthawks – Big Boss Man The Blues Brothers – Messin' with the Kid Stevie Ray Vaughan – Mary Had A Little Lamb Samantha Fish – All Ice No Whiskey Lynyrd Skynyrd – Double Trouble So, punch your ticket, grab a seat in the back of the Big Bus, and join Road Bill and Kevin for another unforgettable journey through the music that keeps our hearts beating and our speakers humming on The Bus Stop Blues.

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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Bus Stop Blues podcast, a three times a week radio show broadcasted from live and recorded at 98.3 FM – The Life radio station in Northern Lake County, Illinois from 7pm on Tuesday's, Thursday's and Sunday nights. The show features blues inspired music, with originals from Kevin Purcell & The Nightburners as well as Blues legends from today and yesteryear. The show includes “Tales From The Road” a recurring feature, plus witty conversations from your hosts and special in studio guests.

Information

  • Creator
    thebusstopblues
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Bus Stop Blues’s Podcast