Lee Zimmerman is an accomplished writer, blogger and reviewer. He contributes to several publications but remains most proud of his work with American Songwriter. His book — Americana Music: Voices, Visionaries and Pioneers of an Honest Sound — is published by Texas A&M University Press.
Former Textone Carla Olson and an all-star cast of contributors bring the seminal sounds of the American West to full fruition.
In a career that spans some 60 years, Judy Collins has witnessed the continued rise of modern folk music while remaining as remarkably prolific as ever.
Neil Young defines what it means to be a musical chameleon. Here is Holler's list of some of his best songs.
Archival music effectively replicated by two storied superstars
Defying genre divide, a promising newcomer makes a diversified debut
A member of the famed Carter Family, June Carter Cash claims an important role in establishing the template for traditional Americana and trailblazing a sound that resonates even today.
There’s something assuring about this combination, like the comfortable fit of an old flannel shirt.
Ultimately, Time In The Sun is an album of conflicting attitudes and emotions, but one that also allows hope to persevere.
Retro and relevant, sassy and seductive, Ramblin' Soul gives Melissa Carper solid standing as an essential artist.
With their latest endeavor - a pair of companion EPs consisting of covers - The Dead South probe new environs
A ragtag cowboy explores the highs and lows of the great American West
Drawing inspiration from a love of literature, Pony Bradshaw creates distinct personas and a world of tales on his new album North Georgia Rounder
With his new album, Noah Guthrie creates his own wailing wall
The relentless renegade displays his admiration for an influential icon.
Given his renegade reputation and off-kilter attitude, it’s little surprise that Cody Jinks has gained such a storied stature within the Americana community.
It’s clear that Shane is well-positioned to carve a niche as a popular contemporary country performer; he clearly possesses the energy and enthusiasm needed to do so. Suffice it to say, Backslider offers him the means to keep moving forward.
Say what? A new compilation offers a few good reasons why Say ZuZu may be worth more than a mention.
Two sisters in song continue a journey informed by their encounters in far-reaching travels
21-year-old newcomer makes a formidable impression with his taut and tenacious debut
Yet another outing by America’s most invincible icon, assisted this time by family and friends.
It’s tempting to frame Justin Townes Earle within the darker designs that shadowed his life and career, but his artistic achievements are underscored by a lingering legacy.
See You Next Time invokes the image of an all-night dive bar that offers safe haven for lovers, losers, drifters and dreamers whose hopes and aspirations always remain just out of reach.
Alabama set the precedent for the idea of bands, as opposed to individuals, finding success within contemporary country realms
With their new album, the nu-grass pioneers offer an evocative look at life’s uncertainties.
To those who have watched her rapid ascent to the top ranks of Americana’s elite, Molly Tuttle could be considered something of a phenomenon.
Graham Nash joins Holler to discuss his new photo journal, recalling music, memories and magic.
Jeff Hanna reflects on the changes that have overtaken Music City over the decades, speaking to the recognition the iconic Nitty Gritty Dirt Band have reaped as a result.
Granted, Brown’s good-ole-boy persona never drifts far from the surface, and any number of tracks reinforce that notion. In that regard, The Comeback resonates exactly as intended.
Those familiar with Pride’s work will easily understand why he was so successful. Here is a selective sampling of 15 of his best songs, from a broad catalogue that has stood the test of time.
One of the real joys AmericanaFest has to offer is not only the opportunity to enjoy more familiar fare, but also to discover new up-and-coming performers who are showcasing their music for the first time.
With his second album, Early James offers insight into an unsettled state of mind. Here's Holler's album review of Strange Time To Be Alive.
Longtime Americana staples apply their low-cast vision to a series of standards of the vintage variety
While Bob Dylan isn’t always thought of as curator of country music, he was one of the single most influential early instigators of rock’s crossover to country. Here's Holler's list of his best country songs.
The band’s common love for New Orleans is a bond that forever remains intact, and the varied influences infused in their music continues to reflect that relationship.
It’s the unabashed enthusiasm infused in every song in this set that gives the album an indelible identity. Little wonder then that Bliss is so consistent and contagious.
Disproving the age-old adage that youth is wasted on the young, Billy Strings has built a remarkable reputation as one of today’s best pickers and players.