Melodies of the Smokies
5-Minute Stories from the Mountains
We're developing a podcast that will explore the rich musical heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains through intimate stories of legendary musicians, traditional songs, and cultural traditions.
What We're Building
Each episode will be a 5-minute deep dive into a different aspect of mountain music — from the ballads brought over from the British Isles to the innovations of modern bluegrass, from Cherokee musical traditions to the legends of Cades Cove.
Musical Biographies
Stories of legendary and lesser-known musicians who shaped the tradition
Song Origins
The fascinating histories behind beloved Appalachian songs
Cultural Context
How mountain music reflects and shapes Appalachian life
Planned Episode Topics
Your Host: Josh Waters
Josh Waters brings over 20 years of professional music industry experience and deep relationships within both the traditional music community and the Nashville music industry. His passion for authentic mountain music and commitment to preserving these traditions will drive every episode.
Stay Updated
The podcast is in development. Visit our events page to see what's happening now, or explore our curated playlists to start listening to Appalachian music today.