The Roots Music Project w/ Jeremy Baldwin 89.1 WEMU

07/27/2025

Playlist for The Roots Music Project on July 26th, 2025: https://tinyurl.com/mmc5wxbx

07/26/2025

More on Tommy McLain...

His recording of "Sweet Dreams," which was also covered by Patsy Cline, hit #15 in the U.S. in 1966.

07/26/2025

Today on The Roots Music Project: Maria Muldaur pays tribute to Victoria Spivey (w/ help from Elvin Bishop). It is also Mick Jagger's 82nd Birthday, so we'll explore the Blues/Country side of Mick and the Rolling Stones as well. Plus great new releases from Kelsey Waldon, The Wildmans & more. 4-7pm ET on 89.1 WEMU and streaming live at: wemu.org

07/26/2025

Playlist for the Roots Break on July 25th, 2025: https://tinyurl.com/3ff2dp3w

07/25/2025

July 25th is National Wine & Cheese Day and surprisingly I didn't find a lot of quality songs about cheese, but songs about wine are plentiful. Today on the Roots Break we'll have a bacchanal featuring songs of the grape, plus new and vintage Jazz, Roots & Blues. 12-2pm ET on 89.1 WEMU and streaming live at: wemu.org

07/24/2025

R.I.P. Tommy

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of legendary songwriter and Swamp Pop pioneer Tommy McLain, who has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed the news earlier today.

With a recording and performing career spanning more than six decades, Tommy's soulful voice and heartfelt songs left a lasting imprint on roots music. From his chart-topping rendition of “Sweet Dreams” to his deep roots in the rich musical traditions of Louisiana, Tommy remained a vital and beloved figure across generations of music lovers.

Glenn Dicker, co-founder of Yep Roc Records said, "Getting to work with Tommy was definitely a milestone for all of us at Yep Roc and we are forever grateful. He was such a kind and loving soul which flowed through his music to touch people in a beautiful way. I Ran Down Every Dream was an incredible way to cap off a stellar career. We love you, Tommy!"

Tommy’s most recent album, 2022's I Ran Down Every Dream, was his first studio record in over forty years and a triumphant return that reminded the world of his singular voice and songwriting spirit. Featuring collaborations from some of Tommy's biggest fans, including Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, C.C Adcock, and Van D**e Parks, the album was both a celebration of Tommy's Swamp Pop legacy and a bold artistic statement from a performer still chasing transcendence in every note.

We at Yep Roc Records are honored to have released I Ran Down Every Dream and reissue his gospel record Moving to Heaven. It was a privilege to help share his music with the world and witness his artistry shine brighter than ever in his later years. His legacy will continue to inspire us and his fans for years to come.

07/20/2025

Playlist for The Roots Music Project on July 19th, 2025: https://tinyurl.com/44x5uas8

07/19/2025

R.I.P. ML

07/19/2025

Pete Wernick reacts to Hot Rize being inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame...

by Pete Wernick What an honor for Hot Rize to be inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame! Since 1978, the band has been a major part of my life’s work as a musician, writer, producer, and teacher. I feel fortunate beyond words for the partnership that Tim, Nick, Charles, ... Read More

07/19/2025

Saturdays are for music. Tune in to The Roots Music Project to hear new music from The Wildmans and Kelsey Waldon. We'll also continue WEMU's 60th Anniversary celebrations with a look back at Country songs released in 1965 (WEMU's birth year). 4-7pm ET on 89.1 WEMU and streaming live at: wemu.org

07/18/2025

Playlist for the Roots Break on July 18th, 2025: https://tinyurl.com/35szbn5w

07/18/2025

Woodrow Wilson Guthrie (Woody) was born on July 14th, 1912. We'll celebrate this towering figure in American history w/ a set of his songs including tracks from Ry Cooder, The Secret Sisters and Woody himself. Plus even more Jazz, Blues and Roots to keep you company during your lunch. 12-2pm ET on 89.1 WEMU and streaming live at: wemu.org