5-Minute Stories from the Mountains
Discover the rich musical heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains through intimate stories of legendary musicians, traditional songs, and the cultural traditions that have shaped Appalachian music.
New episodes every week. Available on your favorite podcast platform.
We're preparing to launch Melodies of the Smokies with a series of compelling stories from the heart of Appalachian musical tradition. Subscribe now to be notified when the first episode drops.
Melodies of the Smokies brings you 5-minute deep dives into the songs, musicians, and traditions that have made Appalachian music one of America's most enduring cultural treasures.
Each week, we explore a different aspect of mountain music—from the ballads brought over from the British Isles to the innovations of modern bluegrass, from legendary figures like Doc Watson to hidden gems only known to locals.
Whether you're a longtime fan of traditional music or just discovering the beauty of mountain sounds, these short episodes offer accessible entry points into a rich and complex musical heritage.
Stories of legendary and lesser-known musicians who shaped the tradition
The fascinating histories behind beloved Appalachian songs
How mountain music reflects and shapes Appalachian life
We're working on bringing you the first season of Melodies of the Smokies.
Subscribe to be notified when episodes start dropping.
Host & Founder
Josh Waters has spent years connecting with musicians, collectors, and tradition-bearers throughout the Appalachian region. His deep relationships within both the traditional music community and the Nashville music industry give him unique access to stories that have never been told.
Through Melodies of the Smokies, Josh shares his passion for authentic mountain music and his commitment to ensuring these traditions remain vibrant and accessible to new generations of listeners.
Melodies of the Smokies is a free podcast made possible by the generous support of listeners like you and the Appalachian Heartland Foundation.