Episodes

  • Blues is the Truth 739

    Blues is the Truth 739
    Jan 31 2025
    🎙️ Blues is the Truth – A New Episode Full of Legends and Rising Stars! 🎶

    Join Ian McHugh for another electrifying episode of Blues is the Truth, packed with the finest blues from across the decades. With regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, there’s always something fresh, familiar, and full of soul.

    We’re also celebrating some exciting news – Blues is the Truth has been longlisted for UK Blues Awards Radio Presenter of the Year! A huge thank you to everyone who listens, shares, and supports the show. Your love for the blues keeps this music alive!

    This week’s episode is stacked with incredible talent. We’ve got the unmistakable grooves of Johnny Guitar Watson and the raw energy of Mitch Ryder, alongside the legendary guitar work of Eric Clapton and Kai Strauss. The show brings soulful power from Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, deep blues from Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues, and masterful storytelling from Steve Howell and the Mighty Men.

    There’s also a modern edge with the John Mayer Trio, alongside transatlantic brilliance from Guy Verlinde & Tom Eylenbosch and the classic drive of The Backbone Blues Band. The high-energy blues-rock of Alex Lopez Express and Big Al and the Heavyweights will get your feet moving, while Joss Stone and Heavydrunk & Watermelon Slim bring deep, soul-drenched emotion.

    We keep the guitar fireworks going with JW Jones and the feel-good sounds of Elvin Bishop’s Big Fun Trio, while The Fabulous Thunderbirds remind us why they’re still at the top of their game. And, of course, it wouldn’t be Blues is the Truth without a nod to the past, featuring the legendary Muddy Waters, the unmistakable voice of Dave Kelly, and the modern mastery of The Cinelli Brothers, Rees Shad, and the incredible Tedeschi Trucks Band.

    With a lineup like this, you won’t want to miss a second!

    If you love the blues, help us spread the word—like, share, rate, and subscribe. Let’s keep the blues alive together!

    #BluesIsTheTruth #BluesRadio #UKBluesAwards #BluesMusic #ListenNow
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 738

    Blues is the Truth 738
    Jan 24 2025
    🔥 New Episode of Blues is the Truth! 🔥

    Get ready for another jam-packed episode of Blues is the Truth, where we bring you the best of blues, soul, funk, and more. This week’s show is stacked with incredible artists like Tim Penn and the Second Line, McKenna Moonah Blues Duo, Dave Ferra, Dom Flemmons, Guy Verlinde, and Tom Eylenbosch, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Untouchables, Lucas Haneman, Northsyde, Dave Specter, Melon Jelly, Georgie Bonds, Andres Roots, Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, Robert Hokum and the Guv’nors, Andreas Diehlmann Band, Curtis Salgado, Vinyl Paradise, Alfie Smith, Eric Clapton, Mississippi MacDonald, and Steve Bailey.

    We’ll have all your favorite regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same, plus a whole bunch of deep cuts, classics, and fresh new music from the blues scene.

    Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review on your podcast platform of choice—your support helps keep the blues alive!

    🎧 Tune in now and let the music do the talking!
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 737

    Blues is the Truth 737
    Jan 18 2025
    The latest episode of Blues is the Truth is here, and normal service resumes with two hours of phenomenal blues that will keep your soul singing and your feet tapping. Hosted by the ever-passionate and knowledgeable Ian McHugh, this week’s show is packed with incredible music, the usual fan-favorite features, and a lineup of artists that truly defines the spirit of the blues.

    This episode shines a spotlight on the brilliant Tomislav Goluban and the powerhouse sounds of Crooked Eye Tommy, both delivering unforgettable performances that will leave you hitting replay. Alongside them, you’ll hear classics and contemporary gems from legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Muddy Waters, and Buddy Guy, and the deep grooves of Little Walter, Peter Green, and Otis Spann.

    Etta James brings her unparalleled vocal power, while Mud Morganfield, Tim Aves and Wolfpack, and the soulful Colin James remind us why blues endures. The raw energy of Tail Dragger, Cesar Crespo and the Pinball’s Blues Party, and Wailin’ Walker will keep you on the edge of your seat, while Bob Margolin and Bob Coritore showcase their collaborative genius.

    With contributions from Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Larry Griffith, Jeff Pitchell, Kai Strauss, and even blues royalty BB King and Lowell Fulson, this week’s lineup spans decades of brilliance. And, of course, there’s a special place for Eric Clapton, whose timeless artistry remains an inspiration.

    Make sure you don’t miss this blues-packed episode! Listen now and join Ian McHugh on this musical journey. And if you love what you hear, don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and review on your podcast platform of choice. Spread the word and help keep the blues alive!
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 736

    Blues is the Truth 736
    Jan 10 2025
    Welcome to the latest edition of Blues is the Truth, kicking off the year with a fantastic lineup of music and the return of all your favorite regular features! Hosted by the ever-passionate Ian McHugh, this episode brings you everything you’ve come to love about the show, from the deep dives of “Blues Driver” to the exciting challenges of “Title Track Tango” and the timeless discoveries of “The Song Remains the Same.”

    This week’s music selection is truly exceptional, featuring tracks from Kai Strauss, Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, Joanne Shaw Taylor, and Robert Cray, as well as collaborations like Tomislav Goluban and Crooked Eye Tommy, and Giles Robson with John Primer. You’ll also hear the legendary Koko Taylor, the soulful Jerron Paxton, and guitar greats like Eric Clapton and Dave Kelly. The lineup continues with GA-20, Pat Donahue, and gems from The British Bluescasting Corporation, John ‘Greyhound’ Maxwell, and Sheryl Youngblood.

    There’s even more to savor, with performances by Jimmie Vaughan, Nick Moss Band, The 2:19, Alice Di Micele, and The Cinelli Brothers. Plus, tracks from Little Georgie and the Shuffling Hungarians, Wailin’ Walker, Breezy Rodio, Al Lerman, and the unforgettable Willie Kent round out this spectacular playlist.

    Make sure to tune in, and don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and review the show—it helps spread the word and keeps the blues alive. Let’s start the year strong, together, with the music that moves us!
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 735 Best of 2024

    Blues is the Truth 735 Best of 2024
    Jan 3 2025
    Join host Ian McHugh for a special edition of “Blues is the Truth,” as he curates a non-comprehensive best-of episode, showcasing standout tracks from the past 12 months. This two-hour journey features selections from artists such as Giles Robson, The Cinelli Brothers, Conolly Hayes, Tab Benoit, Terry Marshall and Friends, The Paul Michael Band, The Milk Men, Rick Estrin and the NightCats, Kid Andersen, Kai Strauss, Robert Hokum, Catfish, Shemekia Copeland, Paul Cook Blues Band with Katie Bradley, Tony Louie, Murali Coryell, Neil Sadler, Colin James, Elles Bailey, Johnny Burgin with Anson Funderburgh, and JJ Grey and Mofro. Additionally, Paul Michael picks two of his absolute favourites in his very own Blues Driver segment.

    Ian McHugh, frontman and guitarist of the band Blues is Truth, has been presenting “Blues is the Truth” for over a decade. He also serves as the compere of the Ealing Blues Festival main stage, bringing his extensive knowledge and passion for blues music to each episode. 

    Tune in to this episode for an eclectic mix that reflects the dynamic landscape of contemporary blues. Don’t forget to share the episode with fellow blues enthusiasts, subscribe to the podcast for weekly doses of blues excellence, and take a moment to rate and review. Your feedback helps keep the blues alive and thriving.

    #BluesIsTheTruth #BestOf2024 #IanMcHugh #BluesPodcast #SubscribeAndShare
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 734 Christmas Special

    Blues is the Truth 734 Christmas Special
    Dec 20 2024
    🎄 Blues is the Truth Christmas Special 🎅

    It’s time to deck the halls with the best blues of the season! Join host Ian McHugh for a two-hour festive celebration filled with music to warm your soul.

    This week’s show features holiday magic and stunning performances from blues legends like BB King, Charles Brown, Buddy Guy, James Brown, Albert King, and Ray Charles. Modern blues stars like Joe Bonamassa, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Mike Zito, and Victor Wainwright bring their incredible talent to the mix.

    You’ll also hear unforgettable tracks from Duke Robillard, Benny Turner, Earl King, Roy Milton, Big Harp George, Anson Funderburgh, Fran McGivillray Band, Cash Box Kings, Delta Moon, and Random Earth Project. Adding to the festive cheer are classics by Floyd Dixon, Mabel Scott, Bessie Smith, Lawrence Lebo, Jimmy Durante, and the magical duo of Will Johns and Tramper Price.

    Alongside these festive blues tunes, enjoy your favorite features like The Song Remains the Same and Blues Driver.

    Celebrate the holidays in true blues style—don’t forget to share, subscribe, review, and rate the show to spread the Christmas cheer. Merry Christmas from all of us at Blues is the Truth! 🎶🎁
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 733

    Blues is the Truth 733
    Dec 13 2024
    The latest episode of Blues is the Truth is here, hosted by the brilliant Ian McHugh, bringing you the finest mix of blues from legends and rising stars. Dive into an incredible lineup featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jontavious Willis, Kai Strauss, Joe Bonamassa, and Kilborn Alley. Explore timeless classics from John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins, and Lionel Hampton with Dinah Washington, alongside fresh tracks from contemporary icons like Giles Robson, John Primer, and The Terraplanes Blues Band.

    This week’s episode also highlights unique collaborations such as Ian Siegal meeting Johnny Mastro and Giles Robson teaming up with John Primer. You’ll hear soulful melodies from Marcus Trummer and Fried Okra Deluxe, powerful grooves from Leavin’ Trunk, Jason Ellmore and Hoodoo Witch, and masterful musicianship from Martin MacNeil and Robert Hokum. And of course, no episode would be complete without a nod to the greats, with tracks from Mud Morganfield, Kim Wilson, and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers.

    Regular features include the electrifying Blues Driver, the lyrical exploration of Title Track Tango, and the familiar favorites of The Song Remains the Same. Don’t miss a moment of this jam-packed episode!

    Remember to share the blues love—subscribe to the podcast, rate it, and leave a review. Your support helps keep the blues alive and thriving!
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    2 hrs
  • Blues is the Truth 732

    Blues is the Truth 732
    Dec 6 2024
    This week’s episode of Blues is the Truth, hosted by the ever-engaging Ian McHugh, delivers another fantastic selection of blues tracks, blending classics with the best of contemporary sounds. Packed with soulful grooves, powerful vocals, and unforgettable guitar riffs, this episode is a must-listen for blues enthusiasts.

    Regular features like Blues Driver, Title Track Tango, and The Song Remains the Same return, adding depth and diversity to the show. Among the incredible artists featured this week are Andy Fairweather Low, Shemekia Copeland, Albert Castiglia, Ethan Askey and the Elevators, Professor Louie and the Crowmatix, Eric Clapton, Ollee Owens, Michael Messer, Patrick Sweany, Michael Hurley, Debbie Bond, Oscar Wilson, The Untouchables, The 2:19, Beaux Gris Gris, Fenton Robinson and the Dukes, Bobby Messano, Samantha Fish, Wily Bo Walker, David Vest and Terry Robb, BB King, Delbert McClinton and the Self Made Men, Jimmy Addler, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

    With its expertly curated playlist and Ian’s passion for the genre shining through, this episode offers an immersive journey through the world of blues music. Don’t forget to subscribe to Blues is the Truth wherever you get your podcasts to stay up to date with the latest episodes. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating and review—it’s a great way to support the show and help others discover the music you love!
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    2 hrs