In this concert review from the 2025 Dave Koz & Friends at Sea cruise, Jonathan Butler’s Uplifted: Gospel at Sea show brings powerful gospel performances, smooth jazz stars, and heartfelt testimony to the World Stage aboard Holland America’s Rotterdam.

In this installment of Language of the Blues, author and rocker Debra Devi explores the origins and evolution of slide guitar—tracing its roots from African and Hawaiian traditions to Depression-era bottleneck slides and modern variations. Drawing on W.C. Handy’s first written account of blues slide guitar, Debra reveals how everyday objects like knives, medicine bottles, and even lipstick covers have shaped the sound and technique of this expressive blues staple.

On what would’ve been Clifton Chenier’s 100th birthday, the Rolling Stones honor the King of Zydeco with a high-octane cover of “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés”—part of a new tribute album benefiting a scholarship in Chenier’s name.

He had the early heat, the critical raves, the record deal with Clive Davis. The industry buzzed like he was the next big thing—then watched as he took his own road. Now 21 albums in, Willie Nile looks back on a career driven more by passion than spotlight, sharing stages with The Who and Ringo, and holding fast to his instincts.

Maria Muldaur channels the sass and soul of her mentor Victoria Spivey in a new lyric video for “Funny Feathers,” previewing her ‘One Hour Mama: The Blues of Victoria Spivey.’

Renowned for his disciplined guitar work and significant contributions to 1970s rock, Ralphs remains a defining figure of the era.

The Americana Music Association has revealed the nominees for its 24th annual Honors & Awards, spotlighting standout artists like The Mavericks, Sierra Ferrell, MJ Lenderman, Waxahatchee, and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings. Winners will be announced September 10 at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium as part of AMERICANAFEST’s 25th anniversary celebration.

“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear.”

In this photo-rich guide, ten legendary blues artists are remembered where they now rest—beneath flowers, stone, and sky. From Dinah Washington’s bold spirit to Muddy Waters’ electric fire, each grave tells a story still humming through Chicago’s streets.

With “Broke Down Lines,” Left Lane Cruiser looks back on twenty years of road life—and the community that’s grown from it.