Episodes

  • Blues is the Truth 731

    Blues is the Truth 731
    Nov 29 2024
    The latest episode of Blues is the Truth, hosted by Ian McHugh, is here, delivering another dose of the finest blues music. This week’s show features all your favorite segments, including Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, offering a mix of classic and contemporary tracks that showcase the diversity of the blues.

    This episode features an incredible lineup of artists. Expect timeless classics from Freddie King and Koko Taylor alongside electrifying performances by Dom and the Ikos, Ian Siegal meets Johnny Mastro, and The Cinelli Brothers. The show also highlights the soulful sounds of Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues, the dynamic Thørbjörn Risager and Black Tornado, and the smooth grooves of Little Charlie and the Nightcats.

    You’ll also hear the legends like John Lee Hooker and Alexis Korner, plus new energy from artists like King Size Slim and Grieg Taylor. From the harmonica magic of Giles Robson and John Primer to the jazzy vibes of Lionel Hampton and the raw power of Mississippi Shakedown, this episode has it all.

    Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this rich mix of blues brilliance. Make sure to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review to help others discover the show and keep the blues alive!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 730

    Blues is the Truth 730
    Nov 23 2024
    The latest episode of Blues is the Truth with Ian McHugh is here, and it’s packed with an incredible lineup of blues legends and modern icons. Alongside regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, this episode takes you on a journey through the rich and varied world of blues.

    Dive into the soulful sounds of Larry Garner, the timeless genius of Taj Mahal, and the king of the blues, B.B. King. Groove with the Vaughan Brothers, experience the magic of Booker T and the MGs, and revel in the brilliance of Buddy Guy, Magic Sam, and Muddy Waters.

    You’ll also hear the unmistakable grooves of The Meters, the storytelling magic of Keb’ Mo’, and the powerful vocals of Bobby Blue Bland. The episode shines a spotlight on legends like Peter Green and Otis Spann, the swing of Cab Calloway, and the modern blues energy of the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Mississippi Heat, and Matt Schofield.

    Every track is a testament to the power of the blues—old and new, soulful and electrifying. Tune in for a celebration of this incredible genre, and make sure to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review to help keep the blues alive!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 729

    Blues is the Truth 729
    Nov 15 2024
    In the latest edition of Blues is the Truth, hosted by the always engaging Ian McHugh, we bring you another electrifying mix of blues that’s sure to keep your toes tapping and your heart singing. As always, the show features beloved segments like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, offering unique takes on the genre we love.

    This week’s lineup includes incredible music from Freddie King, The Terraplanes Blues Band, ZZ Top, Jimi Barbiani, Jerron Paxton, Corey Harris, Lowell Fulson, Leavin’ Trunk, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Ian Siegal meets Johnny Mastro, Ori Naftali Band, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Ruthless Blues, Robert Hokum and Devil Drives, Breezy Rodio, The Hitman Blues Band, Hat Fitz and Cara Robinson, Larkin Poe, Albert Castiglia, Eva Carboni, Bjorn Peter Thissel, Mandolin Jack, and Buddy Guy.

    Don’t miss a beat – listen now and immerse yourself in the sounds of legends and rising stars alike. Subscribe, share, rate, and review to help us keep spreading the blues love and growing the community!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 728

    Blues is the Truth 728
    Nov 8 2024
    Get ready for another electrifying episode of Blues is the Truth, hosted by the passionate and knowledgeable Ian McHugh! This week’s show is packed with an incredible lineup of blues legends and emerging talent, bringing you both classic and contemporary sounds. You’ll hear tracks from the iconic Ry Cooder, the soulful Mississippi MacDonald, and the powerful Kyla Brox, as well as new favourites like The Cinelli Brothers, Murali Coryell, and Patrick West.

    Don’t miss the show’s beloved regular features, Blues Driver, Title Track Tango and The Song Remains the Same where we dive into the stories behind the songs, showcasing the heart and history of the blues. Also featured are tracks by Oscar Wilson, Giles Robson, John O’Leary and Point Blank, Rob Millis, and the legendary Dave Kelly. Fans of powerful vocals and intricate guitar work will love performances from artists like Warren Haynes, CW Ayon, The Two Bad Jims, and the Chris Bevington Organisation.

    We’re also spinning timeless tunes from blues legends Freddie King, Sweet Papa Lowdown, Jimmy Rogers, and the captivating Robert Finley, among others. Join us as we dive deep into the world of blues with this unbeatable playlist, celebrating the genre’s raw energy and emotional power.

    Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review Blues is the Truth to keep the blues alive and never miss an episode!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 727 Tribute to Robert Hokum

    Blues is the Truth 727 Tribute to Robert Hokum
    Nov 1 2024
    Blues is the Truth - Tribute to Robert Hokum

    In this special episode, Blues is the Truth pays tribute to the late, great Robert Hokum. We’re celebrating his life and legacy with an intimate look back at his work and impact on the blues scene. This episode includes a 2020 interview with Robert where he opens up about his “musical DNA” and shares stories from the Ealing Blues Festival, which he helped shape into a landmark blues event in the UK.

    The episode features music from Robert himself and some of his standout projects, including Blues Sans Frontiers, Robert Hokum and the Guv’nors, The Great West Groove, and The Robert Hokum Revue. You’ll also hear from artists who influenced and inspired him, like BB King, The Shadows, Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated, and Doris Henderson with the Robert Hokum Blues Band. Rounding out the lineup are tracks from other notable blues talents including Delta MacLeod, Northsyde, Earl Thomas, Terry Marshall and Friends, and more.

    Tune in for a heartfelt musical journey honoring the unforgettable Robert Hokum and the legacy he left in British blues. 🎶
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 726

    Blues is the Truth 726
    Oct 28 2024
    In Blues is the Truth episode 726, host Ian McHugh turns the playlist over to the “shuffle gods” for a thrilling “random play” special. With each track selected at random, the episode promises a fresh, eclectic mix that keeps both Ian and the audience on their toes. Expect the unexpected as the show explores a range of blues styles, eras, and artists.

    Alongside the shuffled tracks, Ian presents beloved segments that listeners have come to count on each week. “Title Track Tango” highlights songs that share their names with their albums, offering a closer look at tracks that encapsulate the spirit of entire records. In “The Blues Driver” segment, Paul Michael picks out powerhouse blues tracks that push the genre forward, introducing fresh talent and innovative sounds to fans. Another staple, “The Song Remains the Same,” focuses on different interpretations of iconic songs, examining how diverse artists have reimagined these classic pieces, lending their own styles and voices to timeless tracks.

    With Ian’s insightful commentary and wide-ranging musical selection, episode 726 delivers a unique and immersive listening experience. Tune in and discover where the shuffle takes you!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 725

    Blues is the Truth 725
    Oct 18 2024
    In this week’s episode of Blues is the Truth, host Ian McHugh brings another fantastic blend of blues, rock, and soul, featuring a special tribute to Matt Long of Catfish, who sadly passed away last week. The show honors his incredible talent and lasting influence on the blues community, with several appearances by Catfish throughout the episode.

    As always, you’ll hear regular features like the “Song Remains the Same” and the “Blues Driver,” along with Ian’s insightful commentary about the stories behind the tracks.

    This episode kicks off with the incredible sounds of Tedeschi Trucks Band, a group that has redefined modern blues with their soulful, Southern-infused rock. We then move on to the raw energy of Catfish, showcasing Matt Long’s dynamic performances and powerful vocals.

    The smooth yet gritty grooves of CW Ayon will take you on a journey into the heart of Mississippi Hill Country, while The Travelling Blue Kings deliver a European take on classic Chicago blues. Samantha Fish brings her fiery guitar and captivating voice, and we honor the legendary Fenton Robinson and his contributions to the blues world.

    Other highlights include the soulful tones of Mississippi MacDonald, the Chicago-born Guitar Jack Wargo, and the iconic harmonies of The Pointer Sisters, showcasing their unique flair for crossing genres. New favorites like Brooks Williams and Kat Riggins share the stage with veteran bluesmen such as Buddy Guy, T-Bone Walker, and Bob Angell.

    Throughout the episode, Ian also highlights the work of King Bee and the Stingers, TJ Wong, Jimmy Adler, and Brick Briscoe. Fans of swamp blues will especially enjoy a powerful track from Tab Benoit, capping off the show with one last appearance by the energetic Catfish in memory of Matt Long.

    Tune in for an unforgettable mix of blues legends, rising stars, and a heartfelt tribute to a truly gifted artist.
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 724

    Blues is the Truth 724
    Oct 4 2024
    Join Ian McHugh, your dedicated host, for another thrilling episode of *Blues is the Truth*! This week's show brings you an incredible lineup of artists, featuring some of the biggest legends and freshest voices in blues. You'll hear tracks from *Eric Clapton*, *Ronnie Baker Brooks*, *Roy Milton*, *John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers*, *Little Feat*, and *Jontavious Willis*. But that’s not all — there's also music from *Cecilia and the Candy Kings*, *Neil Saddler*, *Junior Wells*, *Magic Sam*, *J Geils Band*, *Colin James*, *Taj Mahal*, *Chickenshack*, *Bruce Mississippi Johnson*, *Mississippi Fred McDowell*, *Shemekia Copeland*, *Vaneese Thomas*, *Susan Tedeschi*, *Duke Robillard*, *Eddie Cotton*, and *Connolly Hayes*.

    With two hours of exceptional music, Ian McHugh will also bring you beloved features like “Blues Driver,” “The Song Remains the Same,” and “Title Track Tango,” guiding you through the very best of blues past and present. Whether you're a die-hard blues lover or discovering these timeless sounds for the first time, this episode has something for everyone!

    Tune in now to enjoy an unforgettable journey through the heart of the blues!
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs