The Sound & Soul of the South

The Sound & Soul of the South spotlights destinations as they share the stories behind their community’s musical roots, legends, attractions, and vibrant live music scenes. Each episode explores how music shapes local identity, culture, and economic impact in destinations throughout the South—appealing to music fans and travelers seeking authentic, music-driven experiences.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago ·  Video

    The Sound & Soul of the South, Ep#5: The Sound of Augusta, GA - Soul, Indie Rock & a Downtown Revival

    In this episode, Coco Rubio shares his journey from a music-loving kid in Augusta to a key figure in revitalizing downtown Augusta's music scene. He discusses the history of Augusta's music culture, the impact of James Brown, and the ongoing growth of local arts and entertainment. Special GuestCoco Rubio Key Topics Coco Rubio's background and connection to AugustaThe role of music in community buildingThe history and influence of James Brown in AugustaThe development of downtown Augusta's music venuesSupport for local and original music scenesImpact of urban revitalization on arts and cultureThe importance of cultural identity in musicFuture plans for Augusta's music and arts scene Chapters00:00 Meet Coco Rubio, the “Mayor of Downtown Augusta” 02:11 How Coco Fell in Love with Music 04:35 The Birth of Soul Bar 08:42 James Brown & the Sound of Augusta 14:40 Music Helps Revive Downtown Augusta 21:08 Augusta Embraces the Godfather of Soul 23:46 The Night James Brown Walked Into Soul Bar 28:48 What Makes Southern Music Different? 31:39 Sharon Jones Comes Home 34:22 Where to Hear Live Music in Augusta 37:45 Augusta’s Next Generation of Musicians 39:14 Keeping Augusta’s Music Scene Alive ResourcesSoul Bar - https://www.visitaugusta.com/plan/experience-passes/soul-starts-here/soul-bar/Augusta Museum - https://www.augustamuseum.orgJames Brown Family Foundation - https://www.jamesbrownlegacy.com This episode is brought to you in partnership with Experience Augusta - The Feel Good City.  Order your free Augusta Experience Guide today & start planning your visit! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  2. Aug 7 ·  Video

    The Sound & Soul of the South, Ep#4: The Oral Histories are the Heartbeat of Appalachian Culture

    In this episode, we're diving deep into the heart of Madison County, North Carolina, where music and history intertwine. Donna Ray Norton and Mitchell share the rich musical and cultural heritage of Madison County, North Carolina, and discuss their projects that preserve and promote Appalachian music and history. Discover how this vibrant community continues to nurture its musical roots and innovate with new initiatives like Sound Archive Books. Join us as we explore the incredible stories behind the music, from the legendary ballad singers to the vibrant venues that bring it all to life. You'll discover how local history shapes the soundscape and how these traditions continue to resonate today. Special GuestDonna Ray Norton & Mitchell Davis Key Topics The history and significance of Appalachian balladsThe role of oral histories in cultural preservationInnovative projects like Sound Archive BooksThe impact of music tourism in Madison CountyArtist residencies and community engagementThe story of Donna Ray Norton and her musical journeyThe influence of Cecil Sharp and Appalachian music traditionsFuture plans for cultural and musical initiatives in Madison County TakeawaysMadison County has a vibrant, ongoing live music scene with shows almost every night.Oral histories and personal stories are vital in preserving Appalachian music traditions.Sound Archive Books creates a unique blend of music, storytelling, and community engagement.The community values authentic cultural experiences and actively works to preserve its heritage.Tourism driven by music and culture can significantly benefit rural communities. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Madison County's Music Scene00:21 Welcome to Madison County, North Carolina 01:35 Meet Ballad Singer Donna Ray Norton & Mitchell Davis 03:02 Rare Bird Farm & the Million Memory Project 07:22 Turning Music Stories into Sound Archive Books 08:44 How Rare Bird Farm Became a Music Venue 15:07 Donna Ray’s Unforgettable Visit with Yo-Yo Ma 19:31 Discovering Madison County’s Living Music History 24:15 Ballad Singing & the Nest of Singing Birds 24:43 Where to Experience Live Music in Madison County 26:28 The Deep Roots of Appalachian Ballad Singing 28:49 Music Tourism, New Books & What’s Next 35:10 Why Madison County Belongs on a Music Lover’s Road Trip ResourcesMillion Memory Project - https://www.millionmemoryproject.org/Sound Archive Books - https://soundarchivebooks.org/Rare Bird Farm - https://rarebirdfarm.org/Nest of Singing Birds - https://www.nestofsingingbirds.com/ Plan your visit to Madison County, NC today at visitmadisoncounty.com! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  3. Jul 30 ·  Video

    The Sound & Soul of the South, Ep#3: James Brown's Legacy in Augusta, Georgia

    Explore the legacy of James Brown through the insights of his daughters, Dr. Yama Brown and Deanna Brown Thomas, and the efforts to preserve his history and impact in Augusta, Georgia. Special Guest Dr. Yamma Brown, Deanna Brown Thomas, Donna Greco Key Topics James Brown's influence on music and cultureThe work of the James Brown Family FoundationPreservation of James Brown's historical sites and recordingsThe importance of music education for youthPersonal stories and insights from James Brown's daughters Chapters00:00 Introduction to the episode and guests01:04 Highlighting James Brown's significance in Augusta02:23 Interview with Dr. Yama Brown on her father's legacy03:12 The mission of the James Brown Family Foundation04:00 Personal stories about James Brown as a father06:40 The making of the book 'Cold Sweat' and personal insights11:02 James Brown's focus on education and legacy16:55 James Brown's influence on music and community24:23 The lasting legacy of James Brown beyond music27:10 Touring Augusta and visiting James Brown sites28:44 James Brown's impact on music education30:57 Personal stories about James Brown's personality and work ethic32:07 Closing remarks and upcoming episodes Resources James Brown Family Foundation - https://www.jamesbrownlegacy.comJames Brown Academy of Music Pups - https://www.jamesbrownmusic.orgPrimary Wave Music - https://primarywave.comJames Brown's Boston 1968 Concert Recording - https://www.jamesbrownlegacy.com/boston1968Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History - https://www.lucycraftlaneymuseum.com This episode is brought to you in partnership with Experience Augusta - The Feel Good City.  Order your free Augusta Experience Guide today & start planning your visit! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  4. Jul 16 ·  Video

    The Sound & Soul of the South, Ep#1: The Power of Music Tourism in the South

    In this episode, Charles Davis and Susie Cowan explore the significance of music tourism in the South, highlighting its economic, cultural, and historical impact. They discuss how cities can leverage their musical heritage to attract visitors and foster community pride. Special GuestLisa Love Key TopicsThe importance of music tourism in the SouthEconomic benefits of music festivals and concertsHistorical significance of Southern music citiesStrategies for cultivating music tourismThe role of community and culture in music tourism Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sound and Soul of the South01:15 Why the South is a Music Heritage Hub02:08 Susie Cowan's Journey in Music and Tourism03:52 Economic Impact of Music Events05:36 Music Tourism as a Community Builder07:09 The Role of Music in City Growth09:39 Music Tourism's Role in Saving Historic Venues11:03 Lisa Love on Georgia's Music Heritage12:36 Defining Music Tourism in the South15:53 Unique Aspects of Southern Music Tourism17:05 Music Tourism's Impact on Preservation19:02 The Rise of Concert Travel21:17 The Future of Music Cities23:04 Challenges in Cultivating Music Tourism24:33 The Economic Power of Music Festivals27:09 Community and Music Events38:48 Future Visions for Music Tourism41:33 Closing Remarks and Next Steps ResourcesVisit Macon - https://visitmacon.orgGeorgia Music Foundation - https://www.georgiamusicfoundation.org/ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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The Sound & Soul of the South spotlights destinations as they share the stories behind their community’s musical roots, legends, attractions, and vibrant live music scenes. Each episode explores how music shapes local identity, culture, and economic impact in destinations throughout the South—appealing to music fans and travelers seeking authentic, music-driven experiences.

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