country music

The longstanding conventional wisdom is that what we call "hillbilly music" originated in Western Europe. But the truth, as many scholars and musicians have been preaching for years now, is that country music is intimately tied into the experience of African Americans. We talked to a music scholar about the often overlooked influence of Black musicians on the country genre.

Guest host Colin Jackson talks with a Gongwer News Service reporter about the new budget passed by the Michigan Legislature. Also, some summer gardening tips for home gardeners during hot spells. Plus, join us as we track influences to country music.