The Real Americana with Louise & Blair

A deep dive into Bruce Springsteen’s stark 1982 masterpiece Nebraska. Blair and Louise explore the album’s haunting stories, its legendary 4-track cassette recording, and the new film Deliver Me From Nowhere. Featuring four tracks from the album: “Mansion on the Hill,” “Atlantic City,” “State Trooper,” and “Nebraska.”

We continue our deep dive into Blair’s album Sunday River - this time the “people” songs. We talk album launch week, a new review, and play "Len" and "Señor Senior"- songs inspired by Blair’s grandfather Len Morgan and the legendary local musician Blair Allchurch (Blair Senior). We sign off with ""Beckenham Blue""

It’s an exciting time on The Real Americana with Louise & Blair! Blair’s new album Sunday River is out on vinyl, CD, and streaming and this week we dive into the songs inspired by places. From Denniston to Sunday River (Ōtautahi) and Lisbon, we chat about how these songs came to life, the new Sunday River video, and what goes into turning places into music

This episode of The Real Americana celebrates Ry Cooder, a uniquely influential musician and producer. From Tattler to Little Sister and Paris, Texas, he has crossed genres and borders, collaborating with artists worldwide. Through it all, Ry Cooder has remained true to himself: a slide guitarist like no other, a collaborator without borders, and a storyteller who keeps reminding us that music is bigger than categories.

This week on The Real Americana with Louise & Blair, we shake things up with a show of surprises. Instead of a theme, we spring songs on each other and share first reactions, stories, and laughs. Featuring tracks from Eels, Jason Isbell, and The Rolling Stones, it’s a fresh spin on our Americana journey-unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable

For our fourth show, we celebrate the timeless voice of Emmylou Harris, a cornerstone of Americana music. From the heartfelt tribute of “Boulder to Birmingham” to the harmony magic of Trio’s “To Know Him Is To Love Him,” and the haunting beauty of “Sweet Old World” from Wrecking Ball, we explore the songs that showcase her artistry, collaboration, and enduring influence.

Louise and Blair explore the songs and stories of John Prine, a master of wit, warmth, and storytelling (in Blair’s opinion!). Featuring classics like 'Angel From Montgomery,' 'Hello In There' (Eddi Reader’s cover), "You Got Gold" and Blair’s own tribute 'John & Warren,' inspired by Prine’s enduring influence.

In this episode, we explore the myth and music of one of Americana’s most influential and tragic figures: Gram Parsons. Though his career was brief, Gram’s impact is lasting. He helped define the Americana sound before it even had a name. Featured tracks: Hot Burrito #1 – The Flying Burrito Brothers Wild Horses – The Flying Burrito Brothers Love Hurts – Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris Emmylou – First Aid Kit

This episode shines a light on Daniel Lanois, the producer and songwriter who has shaped Americana with his atmospheric touches. From “Jolie Louise” and “The Maker” on his debut Acadie to the Neville Brothers’ “Yellow Moon” and Dylan’s “Shooting Star,” we explore his French Canadian roots, early work with Brian Eno, and the creative spark that made Dylan's "Oh Mercy" a landmark.