The Life of a Musician
The Life of a Musician is a stripped down "real" acoustic interview and performance with some of the best musicians in the country. The show provides one-on-one conversations and performances with no scripts, just an insight into the musician's life and behind the scenes stories. Each episode is filmed on location with the artist in an intimate setting.
- 2022-2025
- 3 seasons
- Blue Ridge PBS
- Music
The Life of a Musician is a stripped down "real" acoustic interview and performance with some of the best musicians in the country. The show provides one-on-one conversations and performances with no scripts, just an insight into the musician's life and behind the scenes stories. Each episode is filmed on location with the artist in an intimate setting.
Season 3 Episode Guide
10 Episodes 2025
Episode 1
Vince Gill: Part 1
Sat, May 3, 2025
In Part 1 of this two-part special, Vince Gill joins host Brandon Lee Adams for a heartfelt jam session filled with laughs, humility, and unforgettable bluegrass stories. From his teenage years with Bluegrass Alliance to his deep respect for harmony and authenticity, Vince opens up about the early roots that shaped his iconic career.
Episode 2
Vince Gill: Part 2
Sat, May 10, 2025
In Part 2, Vince Gill dives deeper into the emotional core of his artistry, performing intimate renditions of fan favorites. With tales of songwriting with Guy Clark and reflections on music's power to heal, this is a rare, raw look at a legend who still sings like he's got something to say-and the soul to say it.
Episode 3
James Nash
Sat, May 17, 2025
Live from MerleFest, genre-bending guitarist James Nash joins host Brandon Lee Adams for a spontaneous, soulful jam. With no script, no rehearsal, and plenty of laughs, the two dive into musical freedom, right-hand wizardry, and what it means to play from the heart. Featuring fresh takes on Shady Grove and an original tribute to Jerry Garcia.
Episode 4
Roy Bookbinder: Part 1
Sat, May 24, 2025
From Doc Watson to Ray Charles, Roy Book Binder takes host Brandon Lee Adams on a no-holds-barred journey through decades of American music. With wisdom, wit, and finger-picking flair, Roy shares stories of blues legends, recording lore, and the origins of Bookaroo. Filmed live at MerleFest, it's one for the books.
Episode 5
Roy Bookbinder: Part 2
Sat, May 31, 2025
In Part 2, Roy dives deeper into his one-of-a-kind musical legacy-from medicine shows and moonshine to the blues' Appalachian connections. With soulful performances and tales too good to make up, Roy brings his world to life through original songs, road stories, and his enduring philosophy: never stop doing what you love.
Episode 6
Darin & Brooke Aldridge
Sat, Jun 7, 2025
At MerleFest, host Brandon Lee Adams sits down with bluegrass stars Darin and Brooke Aldridge for a heartfelt episode filled with stunning harmonies, soulful stories, and original songs. From their Grand Ole Opry dreams to writing sessions with Byron Hill, the duo shares wisdom, laughter, and unmatched musical chemistry in this intimate, acoustic performance and conversation.
Episode 7
Billy Litz
Sat, Jun 14, 2025
At the Church of the Perpetual Boogie, host Brandon Lee Adams shares an honest, soulful session with Billy Litz-singer, songwriter, trumpet player, and frontman of Hustle Souls. They talk family, craft, and the grind of indie artistry while delivering standout performances full of wit, wisdom, and emotional punch. It's raw, human, and beautifully real-just like Billy's music.
Episode 8
Brianna Harris
Sat, Jun 21, 2025
Filmed at Station West in Nashville, this episode of The Life of a Musician features rising singer-songwriter Brianna Harris. With stunning guitar work and soul-stirring originals like "Clyde" and "Sarah," Brianna blends Appalachian roots with poetic storytelling. Host Brandon Lee Adams joins her for an intimate session that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Episode 9
Matt Crowder
Sat, Jun 28, 2025
Filmed at The Woods on Cabell Street in Danville, VA, this episode of The Life of a Musician features singer-songwriter Matt Crowder. With honesty and humor, Matt shares songs full of grit, soul, and hard-earned truth-like the poignant "Old Truck That Runs" and the rousing "Don't Call Me Outlaw." A deep-dive into real-life songwriting with a true road warrior of the stage.
Episode 10
Jesse Smathers
Sat, Jul 5, 2025
Filmed at Constance's Cabin at Bachelor's Hall in Danville, VA, this episode of The Life of a Musician features Jesse Smathers of Lonesome River Band fame. From original tunes like "Sing Darling Sing" to timeless mountain melodies, Jesse shares authentic string-band storytelling, Appalachian rhythm, and warm front-porch picking in a deeply rootsy and resonant set.