The Rural Blog

A digest of events, trends, issues, ideas and journalism from and about rural America, by the Institute for Rural Journalism, based at the University of Kentucky. Links may expire, require subscription or go behind pay walls. Please send news and knowledge you think would be useful to benjy.hamm@uky.edu.

The Rural Blog

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The 'rock-and-roll president' may surprise you

J. R. 'Robbie' Robertson, who 'turned old American folklore into modern myths' with The Band and others, dies at 80

Singer Tina Turner, native of tiny Nutbush, Tenn., dies at 83

Willie's 90th birthday bash covers a century of American music, whose course he changed by moving back to Texas

Jerry Lee Lewis, an energetic founder of rock 'n' roll, is dead

Bluegrass legend Dean Webb, influence on many, dies at 81

Leon Russell, who played classical, rock, country, blues, soul, gospel, jazz and more, dies at 74

'Americana' music gains popularity and recognition

How often is your state named in popular songs?

Eagles frontman Don Henley revisits rural east Texas roots as inspiration for new solo album

USA Today lists best festivals in the U.S.; many promote tourism in rural areas

Internet radio station gives worldwide exposure to aspiring musicians of Appalachia

Phil Everly, influential harmonist and songwriter of early rock, and country too, dies at 74

Tennessee songwriting festival renews this week

Farm Aid concert shines spotlight on family farms

Tim McGraw's 'Southern Voice' is a song, a theme, a message and a lesson that all need hearing