The Bus Stop Blues’s Podcast

thebusstopblues

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. 3d ago

    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!

  2. 5d ago

    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 - The Music Show 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.

  3. 5d ago

    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

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. Jul 14

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #124 - W/ Special Guest: Rob Stepen with Kate Payton

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #124 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/12/26 - with special guest Rob Stepen with Kate Payton Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    Episode 124 of The Bus Stop Blues welcomes back a familiar friend as musician and songwriter Rob Stephan returns to the Big Bus, this time joined by special guest Kate Payton for an evening of music, stories, and a little live jamming to close out the night. Road Bill and Kevin spend the evening catching up with Rob, talking about his musical journey, his work with The Generations, and the songs and artists that have inspired him along the way. Kate joins the conversation as the crew dives into favorite music, life on stage, and the experiences that keep musicians coming back to the spotlight time and time again. The soundtrack for the evening is packed with legendary artists and unforgettable songs from Samantha Fish, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Deep Purple, The Police, Duran Duran, Led Zeppelin, and Aerosmith. From blues-fueled guitar workouts and arena-rock anthems to new wave classics and hard-rock favorites, Episode 124 travels through decades of music with the kind of energy that only happens when good friends gather around great songs. Featured Songs Samantha Fish – Faster Eric Clapton – Layla Jimi Hendrix – Red House The Who – Won't Get Fooled Again Deep Purple – Smoke on the Water The Police – Every Breath You Take Duran Duran – Rio Led Zeppelin – Rock And Roll Aerosmith – Sweet Emotion Plus, stick around for some live jammin' as Rob and Kate help bring another memorable night aboard The Bus Stop Blues to a rocking finish. Punch your ticket, find a seat near the back, and enjoy another ride filled with music, memories, and stories from the road on The Bus Stop Blues

  8. Jul 11

    Chicago Blues: The Bus Stop Blues - Episode #123 “A Chapter in the History of The Blues” Featuring: Memphis

    The Bus Stop Blues  thebusstopblues.com Our Patreon   EPISODE #123 Aired on WRLR 98.3 FM in Chicago - 07/09/26 - A Chapter in the History of the Blues: Memphis Hosts: Kevin Purcell and Road Bill    Episode 123 - A Chapter in the History of the Blues: Memphis Date: July 9, 2026 Episode 123 of The Bus Stop Blues rolls straight down Beale Street for another installment of A Chapter in the History of the Blues, this time exploring one of the most important music cities ever carved into the American landscape: Memphis, Tennessee. Road Bill and Kevin take listeners on a musical journey through the city that helped give birth to blues, rock and roll, soul, rockabilly, and rhythm & blues. From the smoky clubs of Beale Street and the legendary halls of Sun Studio to the soul-powered sound of Stax Records, Memphis became the crossroads where American music found electricity, grit, and swagger. Throughout the episode, the crew dives into the artists, songs, and stories that shaped Memphis into a musical capital known around the world. Featuring legendary tracks connected to the city’s deep musical roots, Episode 123 captures the sound of riverboats, neon signs, train whistles, and amplifiers glowing long after midnight. Featured Songs Carl Perkins – Blue Suede Shoes Albert King – Born Under A Bad Sign Junior Parker – Mystery Train Paul Simon – Graceland Marc Cohn – Walking in Memphis Chuck Berry – Memphis Sam and Dave – Soul Man Creedence Clearwater Revival – Proud Mary Johnny Cash – I'm Going To Memphis Bob Dylan – Stuck Inside Of Mobile With The Memphis Blues Again Join us for a ride through the history, soul, and musical heartbeat of Memphis, a city whose influence still echoes through blues clubs, jukeboxes, and guitar amplifiers across the world.

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.