The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast

Jessica Poindexter-Hatu
  • 3.5 (2)
  • Music Interviews

🎙️ The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast -Roots, rhythm, and the music that raised me. The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast is where tradition meets real life. Hosted by Jet Hatu, a small-town North Carolina native raised on a tour bus by a professional bluegrass musician, this show dives into the stories, culture, and soul behind the music that shaped her life. From classic bluegrass roots to modern influences, Jet shares her journey of reconnecting with the industry that helped raise her—while spotlighting the people, passions, and perspectives that keep it alive today. Expect a mix of music, storytelling, and real conversations about life, family, community, and finding your way back to what matters most. Whether you grew up on bluegrass or you’re just discovering it, there’s a seat for you here.  In Partner with Radio Dogs Podcast Network Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  1. 3d ago

    Episode 15- Kevin Prater & Stories of the Road

    Kevin Prater—or “Waldo,” as Jet has always known him—is no stranger to life on the bluegrass road.In this episode of The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast, Jet reconnects with Kevin to revisit their shared history from the James King Band days, when the music, memories, and miles were all tied together by an unforgettable purple tour bus.Kevin also shares the story of building his own path in bluegrass and leading the Kevin Prater Band, which has traveled and performed for audiences across the country for the past 17 years.From old road stories and lifelong friendships to leadership, traditional bluegrass, and the realities of making a career in music, this conversation brings the past and present together in a way only old friends can.Tune in for plenty of memories, laughter, and stories from the road with Kevin “Waldo” Prater. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  2. Aug 8

    Episode 14 Shannon Baker & What's coming... Sometime Soon

    On this episode of The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast, I sit down with Shannon Baker & Sometime Soon, an acoustic bluegrass and country group rooted right here in Eastern North Carolina.The group stays true to the traditional sounds of bluegrass and country while blending the unique talents and musical backgrounds of each member to create fresh arrangements, carefully crafted harmonies, and a sound all their own.Shannon Baker leads the way with powerful vocals and original songwriting. Joe Pessolano brings lead and harmony vocals along with guitar and mandolin, Ronnie Parrish anchors the group on upright bass, Chris Hill adds refined fiddle work, and John Dudley rounds out the band with baritone vocals, banjo, and guitar.Together, they perform everything from foot-stomping bluegrass favorites and soulful country songs to original music and a few unexpected selections from neighboring genres. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  3. Aug 1

    Episode 13- Darren Beachley & his DLQU Education

    Darren Beachley is a powerhouse vocalist and virtuoso multi-instrumentalist who has shaped the bluegrass and Americana landscape for over four decades. A former lead singer for Hall of Fame legends Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Beachley has commanded iconic stages from the Grand Ole Opry to the Hollywood Bowl. Known for his soulful, driving vocals and masterclass work on the resonator guitar, he seamlessly bridges deep Mississippi Delta blues grit with traditional Appalachian picking. Today, Beachley drives the genre forward through high-profile collaborations and major upcoming releases: • The Country Gentlemen Show: Center stage on Dobro and vocals, keeping the intricate harmonies and legendary catalog of the Hall of Fame pioneers alive for modern audiences. • The Windbeck Partnership: Creative powerhouse alliance with acoustic prodigy Kyle Windbeck, delivering chart-topping co-writes and tracking an eagerly anticipated duo album. • Darren Beachley & The Americoustix: Leading a premier acoustic trio alongside Windbeck, unleashing a signature "Mountains to the Delta" sound built on deep roots grooves. • The Resocat Arsenal: Powered by an upcoming triple-threat studio rollout, including a dedicated duo album with Windbeck and a heavy-groove gospel record with The Country Gentlemen Show. From his early days touring with pioneer Bill Harrell to his critically acclaimed solo masterpiece The Road Not Taken, Beachley remains a definitive, endorsed force in American roots music. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  4. Jul 25

    Episode 12-Amanda Cook & How Karaoke Changed Her Life

    Rooted in the rich tradition of bluegrass while embracing a fresh, contemporary sound, The Amanda Cook Band has quickly earned a respected place in the acoustic music scene. Fronted by award-nominated vocalist Amanda Cook—now owner of Mountain Fever Records as of August 2025—the band delivers heartfelt storytelling, tight harmonies, and dynamic instrumentation that connects with audiences of all ages.With a full touring schedule across the United States and Canada, performing at major festivals and intimate listening rooms alike, the band continues to build a loyal and growing following. Their performances have graced iconic stages and events such as the Grand Ole Opry, The Station Inn, and the IBMA World of Bluegrass, further solidifying their presence in today’s bluegrass landscape.In 2013, Amanda Cook formed what would become The Amanda Cook Band, bringing together seasoned musicians who share her commitment to authenticity, musicianship, and innovation in bluegrass music. Her journey began in her hometown of Jay, Florida, and evolved through years of performing alongside her father, shaping the heartfelt artistry she is known for today.The band’s upcoming album, Love Through Time, set for release in October 2026, marks an exciting new chapter in their evolution—showcasing both artistic growth and a deepened musical identity.Their previous release, Restless Soul on Mountain Fever Records, highlighted Amanda’s continued growth as both songwriter and bandleader, producing charting singles across multiple bluegrass charts and reaching #2 on the Billboard Bluegrass Album Chart. With strong live performances, musical integrity, and a forward-moving creative vision, The Amanda Cook Band continues to expand its impact within the roots music world. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  5. Jul 18

    Episode 11-Starlett & The Bluegrass Knights LIVE from Willow Oak Bluegrass Park

    Starlett & the Bluegrass Knights are a new band hitting the bluegrass scene with sounds of tradition, new songs & classic composed in a unique way. With Starlett leading the way with songwriting & lead vocals this band brings a dynamic sound. We talk about their journey and their newest album coming out soon. "Safe Harbor" written by Starlett herself, is the title of the album and the upcoming single.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  6. Jul 11

    Episode 10- Rylie Bourne & The Company I Keep

    Born and raised in central Illinois, singer-songwriter Rylie Bourne grew up surrounded by music. Some of her earliest memories include tagging along with her dad, a guitar and mandolin player, to countless weekend bluegrass festivals, jams and rehearsals. Rylie absorbed the harmonies and rhythms from the sidelines, quietly building the foundation for what she now credits as the source of her vocal tone and melodic intuition.  Though music was in her blood (her Grandmother and Great Grandfather also played), she initially resisted performing. “I wanted to do my own thing and I was very shy” she recalls. “But eventually I realized that it was something I couldn’t ignore anymore.” By 17, she was taking piano and guitar lessons, and by her early 20s, she was writing songs of her own—  shaping a voice that felt uniquely hers.A pivotal moment came during one of many family trips to Nashville, where she had the chance to attend the Grand Ole Opry and meet Vince Gill for breakfast. The two spoke about a few of her biggest influences — Ashley Monroe and Alison Krauss —and Gill’s advice was simple but firm: “You just have to be here. And don’t give up.” That conversation helped seal her decision to move to Nashville.Soon after moving to town in 2017, she co-founded the country/southern rock duo LoneHollow with guitarist Damon Atkins. Known for their gritty riffs, tight harmonies, and moody sound, the two built a name for themselves performing everywhere from dive bars to major festivals. It was during this time that Rylie really honed her skills onstage and as a songwriter. For the last two years, she’s been working to build her catalog while also penning songs for others - like her friends and all-female bluegrass group, Sister Sadie. Her latest solo work pulls even deeper into her roots. It's rooted in tradition, but not bound by it—blending country, Americana and storytelling with a voice that always brings it home. Whether she’s leaning into nostalgia, humor, heartbreak, or growth, her music offers something familiar yet refreshingly honest. Rylie’s authenticity is exactly what sets her apart. She doesn’t pretend or chase trends for the sake of fitting in. Instead, she leans into what’s real—and in doing so, invites others to do the same. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  7. Jul 4

    Episode 9- Molly Clair Corman & Keeping Tradition Alive

    Molly Clair Corman is the 18 year old daughter of Gene and Anna Corman. Molly Clair was raised a farm girl in the Missouri Ozark Mountains. Her deep roots in that Ozark music has helped make her a rising star in bluegrass, country, and gospel music. Molly has been playing the Mandolin and singing lead vocals with her band, Molly Clair & Co., in Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee since she began her music career almost three years ago.​        Molly Clair recently recorded her first album in early 2024 with it dropping in late 2024 at the Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Festival. Her album includes the following top country and bluegrass artists:  Grammy Award winning Clay Hess, a former band member for Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder; Tim Crouch, renowned multi-instrumentalist who has performed and recorded with bluegrass and country music royalty; Grand Ole Opry member and the “Queen of Bluegrass” Rhonda Vincent; and Vocalist and former Bass player for the bluegrass band Sister Sadie, Maddie Dalton. ​       In addition, Molly currently serves as junior Vice-President for TBS( Tomorrow's Bluegrass Stars). In October, 2024 Molly was inducted into the Hall of Honor of the George D. Hay Society for her contribution and achievements in the music industry at the George D. Hay Society at the Historical Star Theater in Willow Springs, Missouri.       Within the last year, Molly Clair is expanding her work in the music industry as she has started writing with numerous established writers in Nashville and the music industry.   Powered by the Radio Dog Podcast Network  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

  8. Jun 27

    Episode 8-Jamie "Grascal" Johnson & his journey on the road with Dolly Parton

    On this episode of The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast, I sit down with Jamie "Grascal" Johnson of The Grascals for a conversation filled with bluegrass memories, music history, and stories from a remarkable career.As a 3-time Grammy nominee, 2-time IBMA Entertainer of the Year winner, and performer with more than 200 appearances on the Grand Ole Opry stage, Jamie has spent decades helping shape the sound of modern bluegrass music. Throughout his career, he's shared the stage and studio with some of the biggest names in country and bluegrass, including Dolly Parton, George Jones, Brad Paisley, and many more.We talk about his journey into music, life on the road, his connections to the bluegrass community, and even discover a few ties to my own family's bluegrass roots. Of course, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask about one of my all-time favorite people, Dolly Parton!Whether you're a longtime fan of The Grascals or simply love hearing the stories behind the music, this episode is packed with laughter, memories, and a deep appreciation for the traditions that continue to inspire us all.🎧 Tune in for a conversation about roots, rhythm, and the music that raised us. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

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Ratings & Reviews

3.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

🎙️ The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast -Roots, rhythm, and the music that raised me. The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast is where tradition meets real life. Hosted by Jet Hatu, a small-town North Carolina native raised on a tour bus by a professional bluegrass musician, this show dives into the stories, culture, and soul behind the music that shaped her life. From classic bluegrass roots to modern influences, Jet shares her journey of reconnecting with the industry that helped raise her—while spotlighting the people, passions, and perspectives that keep it alive today. Expect a mix of music, storytelling, and real conversations about life, family, community, and finding your way back to what matters most. Whether you grew up on bluegrass or you’re just discovering it, there’s a seat for you here.  In Partner with Radio Dogs Podcast Network Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-bluegrass-blonde-podcast--6998354/support.

Information

  • Creator
    Jessica Poindexter-Hatu
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Jet Hatu
  • Show Website
    The Bluegrass Blonde Podcast

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