Michael Mwenso on “Message Music” with host Stephen Kallao

Michael Mwenso is back with another installment of “Music Message!” On this episode, he spotlights black artists in country music, talking about everything from the blending of country, gospel, and blues on the radio to code switching. Joining host Stephen Kallao, Michael tells stories about how this music connects to his own life, even talking about a time he snuck into a Ray Charles soundcheck. Plus, Michael shares some music from the influential artists who helped integrate the genre, including Charley Pride and Linda Martell.

*Shawn Colvin “Steady On” Steady On
Mwenso & the Shakes “No Regrets” Emergence
Ray Charles “Take These Chains From My Heart” Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, Vols 1&2
Charley Pride “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me)” The Essential Charley Pride
Linda Martell “Then I’ll Be Over You” Color Me Country
Jade Bird “Open Up The Heavens” Different Kinds Of Light
Cage The Elephant “Ready To Let Go” Social Cues
The Lone Bellow “Dried Up River” Half Moon Light (Deluxe Edition)
Lake Street Dive “Hypotheticals” Obviously
Aubrie Sellers “Drag You Down” Far From Home
Jade Jackson “Good Time Gone” Gilded
Bleachers “Stop Making This Hurt” Take The Sadness Out Of Saturday Night
Hiss Golden Messenger “Sanctuary” Quietly Blowing It

Hour Two
*Dire Straights “Expresso Love” Making Movies
Orla Gatland “You’re Not Special, Babe” Woman on the Internet
Phoenix “1901” Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Japanese Breakfast “Kokomo, IN” Jubilee
Whitney “No Matter Where We Go” Light Upon The Lake
Tori Amos “Past The Mission” Under The Pink
The Record Company “How High” Play Loud
Heartless Bastards “How Low” A Beautiful Life
ACE “How Long” Five A Side
Ray Lamontagne “How Come” Trouble
Love Spit Love “How Soon Is Now” The Craft
Sam Evian “Easy To Love” Easy To Love
Fleet Foxes “Can I Believe You” Shore
Rachael Yamagata “Worn Me Down” Happenstance

*Optional Song