When I asked Mike Ashworth’s bandmates and friends to give me a sentence describing him, it was almost comical how similar their answers were. Two of them were identical, describing him as “the most natural gifted and versatile musician I have ever known.” One even said, “when God made the perfect musician, he made Mike Ashworth; enormously talented and versatile, but also humble, joyous, and a wonderful listener…” I call Mike whenever I can to join me on the Happy Hour or Travis Book and Friends. and he was my bass player of choice for my record. He laid his heart out for us in this interview and my only regret is that it took me so long to get this episode out.

This episode was recorded live at The Grey Eagle in Asheville, NC on February 3rd, 2021.

This episode is brought to you by Thompson Guitars and is presented by Americana Vibes and The Bluegrass Situation as part of the BGS Podcast Network. You can dive into all things roots music anytime at thebluegrasssituation.com. If you’re enjoying the podcast please subscribe and leave a positive review. You can find us on Instagram (@thetravisbookhappyhour) and Facebook and online at thetravisbookhappyhour.com.

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Timestamps:

0:09 - Soundbyte

0:47 - Introduction

2:10 - In-studio Introduction

2:45 - "Turn Your Radio On"

5:20 - Monologue 1

7:44 - "I Will Lead You Home"

10:21 - Monologue 2

14:30 - "Beauty In The Ugliest Days"

19:42 - Interview

48:00 - "First Girl I Loved"

52:06 - "I Want To Sing That Rock & Roll"

55:11 - "Palm Tree"

58:55 - "I’ve Endured"

1:02:50 - Outroduction