SONGS AT THE CENTER
NOLA Code:
SOCE 0700H1
Number of Episodes/Length:
13 / 30
Genre:
Rights End:
5/30/2024
Producer
Songs At The Center Company
Year Produced:
2021
Version:
Base
SONGS AT THE CENTER celebrates the Singer-Songwriter. The series features Grammy Award-winning Songwriting Royalty, as well as up-and-comers you will want to know better. The series can be summed up in three words: Songs. Singers. Stories.
Episode List
#701 John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Kerrville New Folk winner John Gorka (“Love is Our Cross to Bear”), Amilia K. Spicer (“Windchill”), Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. (“The Darkness of Blackness” and “I Wrestled with the Angel”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#702 Sadie Johnson, Barefoot Mccoy & Alice Peacock
Sadie Johnson (“Time to Quit” and “All Night Long”), Barefoot McCoy (“Summer in My Soul”), Alice Peacock (“Free and Wild”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#703 Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Keith Larsen (“Double Swig Every Hallelujah”), Todd Burge (“Don’t Water My Whiskey Down”), Crys Matthews, (“Six Feet Apart” and “Written in the Stars”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#704 Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Grammy Award winner Suzy Bogguss (“Letting Go”), Robin August (“Monster”), Alice Wallace (“The Same Old Song”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#705 Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams, and Brandi Sparks, and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#706 TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#707 John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Kerrville New Folk winner John Gorka (“Blues with A Rising Sun” and “I’m From New Jersey”), Amilia K. Spicer (Trainwreck”), Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. (“This Old House”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#708 Sadie Johnson, Barefoot Mccoy & Alice Peacock
Sadie Johnson (“Until the End of Time”), Barefoot McCoy (“Still Chasing You” and “The Old Acre Wood”), Alice Peacock (“Bliss”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#709 Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Keith Larsen (“At the Foot of Liberty”), Todd Burge (“Back to the Races” and “I’ll Never Make it Out of Here Alive”), Crys Matthews, (“Exactly Where You Are”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#710 Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Grammy Award winner Suzy Bogguss (“Hey Cinderella, and “Nail and Hammer”), Robin August (“All of Our Years”), Alice Wallace (“The Blue”) and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#711 Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams, and Brandi Sparks, hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#712 TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#713 Compilation Special
Songs at the Center’s season-ending Compilation Special features the season's most compelling artists doing great, original material we have never broadcast.
(long)
#701: John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Gorka=GORE-ka; Amilia K. Spicer=Ah-MILL-ya Kay SPICE-er; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
John Gorka
A New Folk Award winner in the Kerrville Folk Festival, John was called by Rolling Stone magazine "the preeminent male singer-songwriter of what has been dubbed the New Folk Movement.” He has toured Italy, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland and Germany, along with the United States. He is a member of the supergroup, Red Horse, with Lucy Kaplansky & Eliza Gilkyson. He sings “Love is Our Cross to Bear.” https://www.johngorka.com
Amilia K. Spicer (Accompanied By Steve Postell)
Amilia has three Kennedy Center performances to her credit, along with song placements in several high-profile TV shows (Party of Five, Dawson’s Creek), and a host of independent films. Pursuing a career in film before music became her livelihood, her songs are cinematic in nature. She makes her current home in Los Angeles. She plays “Windchill,” accompanied by Steve Postell. (Pronunciation: Postell=POE-STELL) https://www.amiliakspicer.com
Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Winner of a Kresge Foundation Arts Fellowship, Robert asserts that cultural diversity is our strength, as he tells stories and writes songs that champion the history, humor and power of African-American Roots music. Acclaimed photographer James Fraher writes about Robert: “Perhaps the world’s most highly educated blues musician, an ordained minister, a longtime DJ, and a living encyclopedia of blues history, the Reverend Robert Jones is comfortable among juke joint loud talkers, fancy-hatted church ladies, and PhDs alike." He plays “The Darkness of Blackness,” and “I Wrestled with the Angel.” https://www.revrobertjones.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#702: Sadie Johnson, Barefoot McCoy & Alice Peacock
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from the The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH.
(Pronunciations: Sadie=SAY-dee; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Sadie Johnson
When Bonnie Raitt told Sadie, “keep doing what you’re doing because we need more women in the world like you,” it was clear evidence that she’s on the right track to reach her destiny. Sadie began playing the guitar at age 6, and has shared the stage with Samantha Fish, Delbert McClinton, Blue Oyster Cult, and Blues Traveler. “I play music not for the money, not for myself, not to be recognized,” she explains. “I do it because when I’m on onstage, there’s that one guy in the back corner who’s having a bad day… And he starts watching. And you entertain everybody, but you keep your eye on that guy the whole show. And by the end he’s having a great time.” She sings “Time to Quit,” and “All Night Long.” https://www.facebook.com/sadiejohnsonband/
Barefoot McCoy
With his blend of folk, Americana and blues, Barefoot takes you from Medieval Times to the Wild West; from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast, all in one show. Jamsphere wrote, “Barefoot is one of only a handful of current singer-songwriters who I consider to be a truly great lyricist. His word craft is simply outstanding… conjuring up thoughtful lines that capture the beauty, frustrations, happiness, and downright absurdity of the world we live in.” He performs “Summer in My Soul.” https://barefootmccoy.com
Alice Peacock
Alice has seven albums to her credit, one with Aware/Columbia Records. Several of Alice's songs have been featured in television and film, including Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!, What I Like About You, Because of Winn-Dixie, and in commercials for J. Jill, and Hershey's. Recently, the biggest difference in her songwriting, she says, is parenthood. “Being a parent, I don’t know that I could love any more than I do right now,” she says, “so I’ve also never been more vulnerable. I have everything to lose.” She sings “Free and Wild.”
https://www.alicepeacock.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#703: Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Burge=rhymes with urge; Crys=Chris; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Keith Larsen
Keith is a two-time selection to the Moravia, Texas, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and recently headlined a solo concert at the prestigious Blue Rock Artist Ranch and Studio, in Wimberley, Texas. His song, “Hold On,” won the People’s Choice Award in the Nashville Songwriters Association International/Country Music Television songwriting competition. He sings “Double Swig Every Hallelujah.” https://keithlarsenmusic.com
Todd Burge
Todd has performed at the Kennedy Center, and is a regular guest on NPR’s Mountain Stage, having been called “West Virginia’s premier songwriter” by its host, Larry Groce. He is also the founder of Song Colony, a premier songwriting community. His songs are filled with a whimsical attitude and feature great guitar picking. He is currently working on a musical about Marietta’s role in Ohio becoming a slave-free state. He plays “Don’t Water My Whiskey Down.” toddburge.com
CRYS MATTHEWS (Accompanied By Heather Mae)
Crys won the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize at the Lincoln Center, and is a two-time performer at the Sundance Film Festival. A native of North Carolina, she now resides in Washington, D.C. She’s known for her Social Justice music that, instead of being angry, is imbued with love. She performs “Six Feet Apart,” and “Written in the Stars.” She is accompanied by songwriter Heather Mae. https://crysmatthews.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#704: Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Bogguss=BOG-us; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
Suzy Bogguss
A Grammy Award winner, Suzy also garnered Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards, and her album, “Aces,” went platinum. She scored a string of Top 10 singles, including “Outbound Plane,” “Drive South,” “Hey Cinderella,” and “Letting Go.” She scored a trio of Gold Albums and notched more than 3 million sales. She sings “Letting Go.”
https://www.suzybogguss.com
Robin August
Robin is an actor, dancer, songwriter and instrumentalist, who began her career as a child on the TV show, Mother Goose Club, and was also featured on five episodes of TV’s Nashville in the recurring role of Louisa. Still in her teens, she has also appeared in a Tim McGraw video. When she was twelve, she saw Joan Jett in concert at Ascend Amphitheater, which led to her putting together a Runaways tribute band, consisting of all girls. She performs “Monster.” http://www.robinaugust.com
Alice Wallace
Named the Best Country/Americana artist at the L.A. Music Critics Awards, her love of music has taken her from Florida, to California, to Nashville. “Playing guitar was less a career necessity than an all-consuming passion,” she says. Holly Gleason of Pollstar adds, “Alice Wallace, whose steady tenor is through with Crystal Gayle’s ache, Linda Ronstadt’s country essence.” She plays “The Same Old Song,” accompanied by Andrew Sovine. https://www.alicewallacemusic.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#705: Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Nellie Clay
Nellie lives in Okemah, Oklahoma, the birthplace of Woody Guthrie. So it’s no accident that she’s a frequent guest at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa. Taking her music to Alaska, Nashville and now back home to Oklahoma, Nellie writes about love and loss in provocative ways, with her heart always committed to music that heals. The Independent’s Day Podcast says Nellie “possesses a torch and twang, tight-vibrato alto voice that was custom-made for slapback echo, and the aching in her melodies reflects the downtrodden, wandering characters that inhabit her songs.” https://www.nellieclay.net
Brandon Lee Adams
Born in Webbville Kentucky, Brandon Lee currently lives in Virginia. He started to play the guitar at age 8 when his grandfather showed him three chords—G-C-D—and told him to have them ready to play at church the following weekend. “I just took to it,” Brandon Lee says. Soon, Tony Rice became his musical hero and his destiny was determined. His career has led him to playing with Tony Rice, Songs at the Center Artist Carl Jackson, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, and Sammy Shelor. https://www.acousticult.com/interviews/bluegrass-songwriter-brandon-lee-adams/
Brandi Sparks
Brandi found her musical identity in Gulf Shores, Alabama. “Call it mental illness, being an artist, depression, anxiety, or just being human: the constant battle between the light and dark,” she says about her motivation to write music. “Rising above the storms in our mind.” Brandi’s latest album is beYOUtiful Life. https://brandisparksmusic.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#706: TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
(Pronunciations; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
#707: John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Gorka=GORE-ka; Amilia K. Spicer=Ah-MILL-ya Kay SPICE-er; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
John Gorka
A New Folk Award winner in the Kerrville Folk Festival, John was called by Rolling Stone magazine "the preeminent male singer-songwriter of what has been dubbed the New Folk Movement.” He has toured Italy, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland and Germany, along with the United States. He is a member of the supergroup, Red Horse, with Lucy Kaplansky & Eliza Gilkyson. He sings “Blues with A Rising Sun,” and “I’m From New Jersey.” https://www.johngorka.com
Amilia K. Spicer (Accompanied By Steve Postell)
Amilia has three Kennedy Center performances to her credit, along with song placements in several high-profile TV shows (Party of Five, Dawson’s Creek), and a host of independent films. Pursuing a career in film before music became her livelihood, her songs are cinematic in nature. She makes her current home in Los Angeles. She plays “Trainwreck,” accompanied by Steve Postell. (Pronunciation: Postell=POE-STELL) https://www.amiliakspicer.com
Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Winner of a Kresge Foundation Arts Fellowship, Robert asserts that cultural diversity is our strength, as he tells stories and writes songs that champion the history, humor and power of African-American Roots music. Acclaimed photographer James Fraher writes about Robert: “Perhaps the world’s most highly educated blues musician, an ordained minister, a longtime DJ, and a living encyclopedia of blues history, the Reverend Robert Jones is comfortable among juke joint loud talkers, fancy-hatted church ladies, and PhDs alike." He plays “This Old House.” https://www.revrobertjones.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#708: Sadie Johnson, Barefoot McCoy & Alice Peacock
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from the the Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH.
(Pronunciations: Sadie=SAY-dee; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Sadie Johnson
When Bonnie Raitt told Sadie, “Keep doing what you’re doing because we need more women in the world like you,” it was clear evidence that she’s on the right track to reach her destiny. Sadie began playing the guitar at age 6, and has shared the stage Samantha Fish, Delbert McClinton, Blue Oyster Cult, and Blues Traveler. “I play music not for the money, not for myself, not to be recognized,” she explains. “I do it because when I’m on onstage, there’s that one guy in the back corner who’s having a bad day… And he starts watching. And you entertain everybody, but you keep your eye on that guy the whole show. And by the end he’s having a great time.” She sings “Until the End of Time.” https://www.facebook.com/sadiejohnsonband/
Barefoot McCoy
With his blend of Folk, Americana and Blues, Barefoot takes you from Medieval times to the Wild West; from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast, all in one show. Jamsphere wrote, “Barefoot is one of only a handful of current singer-songwriters who I consider to be a truly great lyricist. His word craft is simply outstanding… conjuring up thoughtful lines that capture the beauty, frustrations, happiness, and downright absurdity of the world we live in.” He performs “Still Chasing You,” and “The Old Acre Wood.” https://barefootmccoy.com
Alice Peacock
Alice has seven albums to her credit, one with Aware/Columbia Records. Several of Alice's songs have been featured in television and film, including Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!, What I Like About You, Because of Winn-Dixie, and in commercials for J. Jill, and Hershey's. Recently, the biggest difference in her songwriting, she says, is parenthood. “Being a parent, I don’t know that I could love any more than I do right now,” she says, “so I’ve also never been more vulnerable. I have everything to lose.” She sings “Bliss.” https://www.alicepeacock.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#709: Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Burge=rhymes with urge; Crys=Chris; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Keith Larsen
Keith is a two-time selection to the Moravia, Texas, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and recently headlined a solo concert at the prestigious Blue Rock Artist Ranch and Studio, in Wimberley, Texas. His song, “Hold On,” won the People’s Choice Award in the Nashville Songwriters Association International/Country Music Television songwriting competition. He sings “At the Foot of Liberty.” https://keithlarsenmusic.com
Todd Burge
Todd has performed at the Kennedy Center, and is a regular guest on NPR’s Mountain Stage, having been called “West Virginia’s premier songwriter” by its host, Larry Groce. He is also the founder of Song Colony, a premier songwriting community. His songs are filled with a whimsical attitude and feature great guitar picking. He is currently working on a musical about Marietta’s role in Ohio becoming a slave-free state. He performs “Back to the Races,” and “I’ll Never Make it Out of Here Alive.” toddburge.com
CRYS MATTHEWS (Accompanied by Heather Mae)
Crys won the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize at the Lincoln Center, and is a two-time performer at the Sundance Film Festival. A native of North Carolina, she now resides in Washington, D.C. She’s known for her Social Justice music that, instead of being angry, is imbued with love. She performs “Exactly Where You Are.” She is accompanied by songwriter Heather Mae. https://crysmatthews.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#710: Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Bogguss=BOG-us; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
Suzy Bogguss
A Grammy Award winner, Suzy also garnered Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards. Her album, “Aces,” went platinum. Suzy scored a string of Top 10 singles, including “Outbound Plane,” “Drive South,” “Hey Cinderella,” and “Letting Go.” She scored a trio of gold albums and notched more than 3 million sales. She sings “Hey Cinderella,” and “Nail and Hammer.” https://www.suzybogguss.com
Robin August
Robin is an actor, dancer, songwriter and instrumentalist, who began her career as a child on the TV show, Mother Goose Club, and was also featured on five episodes of TV’s Nashville in the recurring role of Louisa. Still in her teens, she has also appeared in a Tim McGraw video. When she was twelve, she saw Joan Jett in concert at Ascend Amphitheater, which led to her putting together a Runaways tribute band, consisting of all girls. She performs “All of Our Years.” http://www.robinaugust.com
Alice Wallace
Named the Best Country/Americana artist at the L.A. Music Critics Awards, Alice and her love for music has taken her from Florida, to California, to Nashville. “Playing guitar was less a career necessity than an all-consuming passion,” she says. Holly Gleason of Pollstar adds, “Alice Wallace, whose steady tenor is through with Crystal Gayle’s ache, Linda Ronstadt’s country essence.” She plays “The Blue,” accompanied by Andrew Sovine. https://www.alicewallacemusic.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#711: Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Nellie Clay
Nellie lives in Okemah, Oklahoma, the birthplace of Woody Guthrie. So it’s no accident that she’s a frequent guest at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa. Taking her music to Alaska, Nashville and now back home to Oklahoma, Nellie writes about love and loss in provocative ways, with her heart always committed to music that heals. The Independent’s Day Podcast says Nellie “possesses a torch and twang, tight-vibrato alto voice that was custom-made for slapback echo, and the aching in her melodies reflects the downtrodden, wandering characters that inhabit her songs.” https://www.nellieclay.net
Brandon Lee Adams
Born in Webbville Kentucky, Brandon Lee currently lives in Virginia. He started to play the guitar at age 8 when his grandfather showed him three chords—G-C-D—and told him to have them ready to play at church the following weekend. “I just took to it,” Brandon Lee says. Soon, Tony Rice became his musical hero and his destiny was determined. His career has led him to playing with Tony Rice, Songs at the Center Artist Carl Jackson, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, and Sammy Shelor. https://www.acousticult.com/interviews/bluegrass-songwriter-brandon-lee-adams/
Brandi Sparks
Brandi found her musical identity in Gulf Shores, Alabama. “Call it mental illness, being an artist, depression, anxiety, or just being human: the constant battle between the light and dark,” she says about her motivation to write music. “Rising above the storms in our mind.” Brandi’s latest album is beYOUtiful Life. https://brandisparksmusic.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#712: TBA
Hosted by Singer-Songwriter Eric Gnezda.
(Pronunciations; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
#713 Compilation Special. Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda. Guests, TBA.
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Songs at the Center’s season-ending Compilation Special features some of our season's most compelling artists doing great, original material we have never broadcast. All original, and very compelling. You will want to tune in, for our compilation shows always bring strong, positive audience response!
Kerrville New Folk winner John Gorka (“Love is Our Cross to Bear”), Amilia K. Spicer (“Windchill”), Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. (“The Darkness of Blackness” and “I Wrestled with the Angel”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#702 Sadie Johnson, Barefoot Mccoy & Alice Peacock
Sadie Johnson (“Time to Quit” and “All Night Long”), Barefoot McCoy (“Summer in My Soul”), Alice Peacock (“Free and Wild”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#703 Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Keith Larsen (“Double Swig Every Hallelujah”), Todd Burge (“Don’t Water My Whiskey Down”), Crys Matthews, (“Six Feet Apart” and “Written in the Stars”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#704 Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Grammy Award winner Suzy Bogguss (“Letting Go”), Robin August (“Monster”), Alice Wallace (“The Same Old Song”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#705 Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams, and Brandi Sparks, and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#706 TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#707 John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Kerrville New Folk winner John Gorka (“Blues with A Rising Sun” and “I’m From New Jersey”), Amilia K. Spicer (Trainwreck”), Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. (“This Old House”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#708 Sadie Johnson, Barefoot Mccoy & Alice Peacock
Sadie Johnson (“Until the End of Time”), Barefoot McCoy (“Still Chasing You” and “The Old Acre Wood”), Alice Peacock (“Bliss”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#709 Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Keith Larsen (“At the Foot of Liberty”), Todd Burge (“Back to the Races” and “I’ll Never Make it Out of Here Alive”), Crys Matthews, (“Exactly Where You Are”), and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#710 Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Grammy Award winner Suzy Bogguss (“Hey Cinderella, and “Nail and Hammer”), Robin August (“All of Our Years”), Alice Wallace (“The Blue”) and hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#711 Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams, and Brandi Sparks, hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#712 TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
#713 Compilation Special
Songs at the Center’s season-ending Compilation Special features the season's most compelling artists doing great, original material we have never broadcast.
(long)
#701: John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Gorka=GORE-ka; Amilia K. Spicer=Ah-MILL-ya Kay SPICE-er; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
John Gorka
A New Folk Award winner in the Kerrville Folk Festival, John was called by Rolling Stone magazine "the preeminent male singer-songwriter of what has been dubbed the New Folk Movement.” He has toured Italy, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland and Germany, along with the United States. He is a member of the supergroup, Red Horse, with Lucy Kaplansky & Eliza Gilkyson. He sings “Love is Our Cross to Bear.” https://www.johngorka.com
Amilia K. Spicer (Accompanied By Steve Postell)
Amilia has three Kennedy Center performances to her credit, along with song placements in several high-profile TV shows (Party of Five, Dawson’s Creek), and a host of independent films. Pursuing a career in film before music became her livelihood, her songs are cinematic in nature. She makes her current home in Los Angeles. She plays “Windchill,” accompanied by Steve Postell. (Pronunciation: Postell=POE-STELL) https://www.amiliakspicer.com
Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Winner of a Kresge Foundation Arts Fellowship, Robert asserts that cultural diversity is our strength, as he tells stories and writes songs that champion the history, humor and power of African-American Roots music. Acclaimed photographer James Fraher writes about Robert: “Perhaps the world’s most highly educated blues musician, an ordained minister, a longtime DJ, and a living encyclopedia of blues history, the Reverend Robert Jones is comfortable among juke joint loud talkers, fancy-hatted church ladies, and PhDs alike." He plays “The Darkness of Blackness,” and “I Wrestled with the Angel.” https://www.revrobertjones.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#702: Sadie Johnson, Barefoot McCoy & Alice Peacock
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from the The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH.
(Pronunciations: Sadie=SAY-dee; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Sadie Johnson
When Bonnie Raitt told Sadie, “keep doing what you’re doing because we need more women in the world like you,” it was clear evidence that she’s on the right track to reach her destiny. Sadie began playing the guitar at age 6, and has shared the stage with Samantha Fish, Delbert McClinton, Blue Oyster Cult, and Blues Traveler. “I play music not for the money, not for myself, not to be recognized,” she explains. “I do it because when I’m on onstage, there’s that one guy in the back corner who’s having a bad day… And he starts watching. And you entertain everybody, but you keep your eye on that guy the whole show. And by the end he’s having a great time.” She sings “Time to Quit,” and “All Night Long.” https://www.facebook.com/sadiejohnsonband/
Barefoot McCoy
With his blend of folk, Americana and blues, Barefoot takes you from Medieval Times to the Wild West; from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast, all in one show. Jamsphere wrote, “Barefoot is one of only a handful of current singer-songwriters who I consider to be a truly great lyricist. His word craft is simply outstanding… conjuring up thoughtful lines that capture the beauty, frustrations, happiness, and downright absurdity of the world we live in.” He performs “Summer in My Soul.” https://barefootmccoy.com
Alice Peacock
Alice has seven albums to her credit, one with Aware/Columbia Records. Several of Alice's songs have been featured in television and film, including Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!, What I Like About You, Because of Winn-Dixie, and in commercials for J. Jill, and Hershey's. Recently, the biggest difference in her songwriting, she says, is parenthood. “Being a parent, I don’t know that I could love any more than I do right now,” she says, “so I’ve also never been more vulnerable. I have everything to lose.” She sings “Free and Wild.”
https://www.alicepeacock.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#703: Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Burge=rhymes with urge; Crys=Chris; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Keith Larsen
Keith is a two-time selection to the Moravia, Texas, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and recently headlined a solo concert at the prestigious Blue Rock Artist Ranch and Studio, in Wimberley, Texas. His song, “Hold On,” won the People’s Choice Award in the Nashville Songwriters Association International/Country Music Television songwriting competition. He sings “Double Swig Every Hallelujah.” https://keithlarsenmusic.com
Todd Burge
Todd has performed at the Kennedy Center, and is a regular guest on NPR’s Mountain Stage, having been called “West Virginia’s premier songwriter” by its host, Larry Groce. He is also the founder of Song Colony, a premier songwriting community. His songs are filled with a whimsical attitude and feature great guitar picking. He is currently working on a musical about Marietta’s role in Ohio becoming a slave-free state. He plays “Don’t Water My Whiskey Down.” toddburge.com
CRYS MATTHEWS (Accompanied By Heather Mae)
Crys won the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize at the Lincoln Center, and is a two-time performer at the Sundance Film Festival. A native of North Carolina, she now resides in Washington, D.C. She’s known for her Social Justice music that, instead of being angry, is imbued with love. She performs “Six Feet Apart,” and “Written in the Stars.” She is accompanied by songwriter Heather Mae. https://crysmatthews.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#704: Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Bogguss=BOG-us; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
Suzy Bogguss
A Grammy Award winner, Suzy also garnered Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards, and her album, “Aces,” went platinum. She scored a string of Top 10 singles, including “Outbound Plane,” “Drive South,” “Hey Cinderella,” and “Letting Go.” She scored a trio of Gold Albums and notched more than 3 million sales. She sings “Letting Go.”
https://www.suzybogguss.com
Robin August
Robin is an actor, dancer, songwriter and instrumentalist, who began her career as a child on the TV show, Mother Goose Club, and was also featured on five episodes of TV’s Nashville in the recurring role of Louisa. Still in her teens, she has also appeared in a Tim McGraw video. When she was twelve, she saw Joan Jett in concert at Ascend Amphitheater, which led to her putting together a Runaways tribute band, consisting of all girls. She performs “Monster.” http://www.robinaugust.com
Alice Wallace
Named the Best Country/Americana artist at the L.A. Music Critics Awards, her love of music has taken her from Florida, to California, to Nashville. “Playing guitar was less a career necessity than an all-consuming passion,” she says. Holly Gleason of Pollstar adds, “Alice Wallace, whose steady tenor is through with Crystal Gayle’s ache, Linda Ronstadt’s country essence.” She plays “The Same Old Song,” accompanied by Andrew Sovine. https://www.alicewallacemusic.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#705: Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Nellie Clay
Nellie lives in Okemah, Oklahoma, the birthplace of Woody Guthrie. So it’s no accident that she’s a frequent guest at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa. Taking her music to Alaska, Nashville and now back home to Oklahoma, Nellie writes about love and loss in provocative ways, with her heart always committed to music that heals. The Independent’s Day Podcast says Nellie “possesses a torch and twang, tight-vibrato alto voice that was custom-made for slapback echo, and the aching in her melodies reflects the downtrodden, wandering characters that inhabit her songs.” https://www.nellieclay.net
Brandon Lee Adams
Born in Webbville Kentucky, Brandon Lee currently lives in Virginia. He started to play the guitar at age 8 when his grandfather showed him three chords—G-C-D—and told him to have them ready to play at church the following weekend. “I just took to it,” Brandon Lee says. Soon, Tony Rice became his musical hero and his destiny was determined. His career has led him to playing with Tony Rice, Songs at the Center Artist Carl Jackson, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, and Sammy Shelor. https://www.acousticult.com/interviews/bluegrass-songwriter-brandon-lee-adams/
Brandi Sparks
Brandi found her musical identity in Gulf Shores, Alabama. “Call it mental illness, being an artist, depression, anxiety, or just being human: the constant battle between the light and dark,” she says about her motivation to write music. “Rising above the storms in our mind.” Brandi’s latest album is beYOUtiful Life. https://brandisparksmusic.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#706: TBA
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda.
(Pronunciations; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
#707: John Gorka, Amilia K. Spicer & Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Gorka=GORE-ka; Amilia K. Spicer=Ah-MILL-ya Kay SPICE-er; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
John Gorka
A New Folk Award winner in the Kerrville Folk Festival, John was called by Rolling Stone magazine "the preeminent male singer-songwriter of what has been dubbed the New Folk Movement.” He has toured Italy, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland and Germany, along with the United States. He is a member of the supergroup, Red Horse, with Lucy Kaplansky & Eliza Gilkyson. He sings “Blues with A Rising Sun,” and “I’m From New Jersey.” https://www.johngorka.com
Amilia K. Spicer (Accompanied By Steve Postell)
Amilia has three Kennedy Center performances to her credit, along with song placements in several high-profile TV shows (Party of Five, Dawson’s Creek), and a host of independent films. Pursuing a career in film before music became her livelihood, her songs are cinematic in nature. She makes her current home in Los Angeles. She plays “Trainwreck,” accompanied by Steve Postell. (Pronunciation: Postell=POE-STELL) https://www.amiliakspicer.com
Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.
Winner of a Kresge Foundation Arts Fellowship, Robert asserts that cultural diversity is our strength, as he tells stories and writes songs that champion the history, humor and power of African-American Roots music. Acclaimed photographer James Fraher writes about Robert: “Perhaps the world’s most highly educated blues musician, an ordained minister, a longtime DJ, and a living encyclopedia of blues history, the Reverend Robert Jones is comfortable among juke joint loud talkers, fancy-hatted church ladies, and PhDs alike." He plays “This Old House.” https://www.revrobertjones.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. (Pronunciation: Riffe=RIFE) https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#708: Sadie Johnson, Barefoot McCoy & Alice Peacock
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from the the Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH.
(Pronunciations: Sadie=SAY-dee; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Sadie Johnson
When Bonnie Raitt told Sadie, “Keep doing what you’re doing because we need more women in the world like you,” it was clear evidence that she’s on the right track to reach her destiny. Sadie began playing the guitar at age 6, and has shared the stage Samantha Fish, Delbert McClinton, Blue Oyster Cult, and Blues Traveler. “I play music not for the money, not for myself, not to be recognized,” she explains. “I do it because when I’m on onstage, there’s that one guy in the back corner who’s having a bad day… And he starts watching. And you entertain everybody, but you keep your eye on that guy the whole show. And by the end he’s having a great time.” She sings “Until the End of Time.” https://www.facebook.com/sadiejohnsonband/
Barefoot McCoy
With his blend of Folk, Americana and Blues, Barefoot takes you from Medieval times to the Wild West; from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast, all in one show. Jamsphere wrote, “Barefoot is one of only a handful of current singer-songwriters who I consider to be a truly great lyricist. His word craft is simply outstanding… conjuring up thoughtful lines that capture the beauty, frustrations, happiness, and downright absurdity of the world we live in.” He performs “Still Chasing You,” and “The Old Acre Wood.” https://barefootmccoy.com
Alice Peacock
Alice has seven albums to her credit, one with Aware/Columbia Records. Several of Alice's songs have been featured in television and film, including Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!, What I Like About You, Because of Winn-Dixie, and in commercials for J. Jill, and Hershey's. Recently, the biggest difference in her songwriting, she says, is parenthood. “Being a parent, I don’t know that I could love any more than I do right now,” she says, “so I’ve also never been more vulnerable. I have everything to lose.” She sings “Bliss.” https://www.alicepeacock.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#709: Keith Larsen, Todd Burge & Crys Matthews
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Burge=rhymes with urge; Crys=Chris; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Keith Larsen
Keith is a two-time selection to the Moravia, Texas, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and recently headlined a solo concert at the prestigious Blue Rock Artist Ranch and Studio, in Wimberley, Texas. His song, “Hold On,” won the People’s Choice Award in the Nashville Songwriters Association International/Country Music Television songwriting competition. He sings “At the Foot of Liberty.” https://keithlarsenmusic.com
Todd Burge
Todd has performed at the Kennedy Center, and is a regular guest on NPR’s Mountain Stage, having been called “West Virginia’s premier songwriter” by its host, Larry Groce. He is also the founder of Song Colony, a premier songwriting community. His songs are filled with a whimsical attitude and feature great guitar picking. He is currently working on a musical about Marietta’s role in Ohio becoming a slave-free state. He performs “Back to the Races,” and “I’ll Never Make it Out of Here Alive.” toddburge.com
CRYS MATTHEWS (Accompanied by Heather Mae)
Crys won the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize at the Lincoln Center, and is a two-time performer at the Sundance Film Festival. A native of North Carolina, she now resides in Washington, D.C. She’s known for her Social Justice music that, instead of being angry, is imbued with love. She performs “Exactly Where You Are.” She is accompanied by songwriter Heather Mae. https://crysmatthews.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#710: Suzy Bogguss, Robin August & Alice Wallace
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center, Columbus, OH.
(Pronunciations: Bogguss=BOG-us; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh; Riffe=RIFE)
Suzy Bogguss
A Grammy Award winner, Suzy also garnered Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards. Her album, “Aces,” went platinum. Suzy scored a string of Top 10 singles, including “Outbound Plane,” “Drive South,” “Hey Cinderella,” and “Letting Go.” She scored a trio of gold albums and notched more than 3 million sales. She sings “Hey Cinderella,” and “Nail and Hammer.” https://www.suzybogguss.com
Robin August
Robin is an actor, dancer, songwriter and instrumentalist, who began her career as a child on the TV show, Mother Goose Club, and was also featured on five episodes of TV’s Nashville in the recurring role of Louisa. Still in her teens, she has also appeared in a Tim McGraw video. When she was twelve, she saw Joan Jett in concert at Ascend Amphitheater, which led to her putting together a Runaways tribute band, consisting of all girls. She performs “All of Our Years.” http://www.robinaugust.com
Alice Wallace
Named the Best Country/Americana artist at the L.A. Music Critics Awards, Alice and her love for music has taken her from Florida, to California, to Nashville. “Playing guitar was less a career necessity than an all-consuming passion,” she says. Holly Gleason of Pollstar adds, “Alice Wallace, whose steady tenor is through with Crystal Gayle’s ache, Linda Ronstadt’s country essence.” She plays “The Blue,” accompanied by Andrew Sovine. https://www.alicewallacemusic.com
About The Venue
The Jo Ann Davidson Theatre at the Vern Riffe Center was named in honor of Jo Ann Davidson, Ohio’s first female speaker of the House of Representatives. It stands across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. https://www.capa.com/venues/detail/riffe-center-theatre-complex
#711: Nellie Clay, Brandon Lee Adams & Brandi Sparks
Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda, from The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, OH
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Nellie Clay
Nellie lives in Okemah, Oklahoma, the birthplace of Woody Guthrie. So it’s no accident that she’s a frequent guest at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa. Taking her music to Alaska, Nashville and now back home to Oklahoma, Nellie writes about love and loss in provocative ways, with her heart always committed to music that heals. The Independent’s Day Podcast says Nellie “possesses a torch and twang, tight-vibrato alto voice that was custom-made for slapback echo, and the aching in her melodies reflects the downtrodden, wandering characters that inhabit her songs.” https://www.nellieclay.net
Brandon Lee Adams
Born in Webbville Kentucky, Brandon Lee currently lives in Virginia. He started to play the guitar at age 8 when his grandfather showed him three chords—G-C-D—and told him to have them ready to play at church the following weekend. “I just took to it,” Brandon Lee says. Soon, Tony Rice became his musical hero and his destiny was determined. His career has led him to playing with Tony Rice, Songs at the Center Artist Carl Jackson, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, and Sammy Shelor. https://www.acousticult.com/interviews/bluegrass-songwriter-brandon-lee-adams/
Brandi Sparks
Brandi found her musical identity in Gulf Shores, Alabama. “Call it mental illness, being an artist, depression, anxiety, or just being human: the constant battle between the light and dark,” she says about her motivation to write music. “Rising above the storms in our mind.” Brandi’s latest album is beYOUtiful Life. https://brandisparksmusic.com
About The Venue
Transformed from a retired high school built in 1915 into a thoroughly modern arts center and performance space, The Peggy R. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington is the home theater of Songs at the Center. http://www.mcconnellarts.org
#712: TBA
Hosted by Singer-Songwriter Eric Gnezda.
(Pronunciations; Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
#713 Compilation Special. Hosted by singer-songwriter Eric Gnezda. Guests, TBA.
(Pronunciations: Gnezda=NEZZ-duh)
Songs at the Center’s season-ending Compilation Special features some of our season's most compelling artists doing great, original material we have never broadcast. All original, and very compelling. You will want to tune in, for our compilation shows always bring strong, positive audience response!
Program Rights
Broadcast Rights:
Unlimited
Rights Dates:
5/31/2021 - 5/30/2024
School Rights:
1 year
V.O.D. Rights:
Yes
V.O.D. Rights Type:
Concurrent w/broadcast rights
Linear Live Streaming:
Yes
Non-Commercial Cable Rights:
Yes
Program Contacts
Contact Type
Viewer
Jack FitzGerald
United States