This week, we’re traveling to summer attractions across Appalachia. Like a bus that sits on a rock at the West Virginia confluence of the New and Gauley rivers. Also, one person’s weedy nuisance is another’s “golden” treasure. So says a North Carolina fiber artist. And, we spill the tea on a classic roadside attraction.
On this episode, Stephen Wilson Jr. makes his Mountain Stage debut. Originally from rural Southern Indiana, Wilson describes his sound as “Death Cab for Country” and continues his rise as a prominent star in the music world with a unique sound that combines country, grunge and indie rock.
Our Song of the Week is “Billy” by Stephen Wilson Jr., a song that unapologetically embraces his roots. You can find this song on his debut album Son of Dad.
Tune in to one of our 270+ affiliate stations starting Friday, Jan. 2 to hear Wilson’s full set, plus live performances by roots music mainstay Oliver Wood, folk singer-songwriter Dar Williams, Nashville folk-pop group TopHouse, and experimental indie folk band Cloud Cult.
Mark Carter and Stephen Wilson Jr. with a declaration proclaiming Stephen Wilson Jr Day. Stephen Wilson Jr.Oliver WoodTopHouseDar WilliamsCloud CultGroup Photo with Kathy Mattea
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This week’s encore broadcast of Mountain Stage is a Five Favorites edition featuring a collection of favorite sets from 2023, chosen by our host Kathy Mattea. We'll hear performances by Jason Isbell, Catherine Russell, Karla Bonoff, The High Kings, and Jennifer Hartswick Band.
On this week’s encore broadcast of Mountain Stage, CBS Sunday Morning correspondent Conor Knighton joins us as guest host to welcome The Baseball Project, The Minus 5, Bob Mould, Chris Stamey, and Loose Cattle.
This week’s encore broadcast of Mountain Stage was recorded live at the WVU Canady Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. Guest host David Mayfield welcomed Chuck Prophet & His Cumbia Shoes, The SteelDrivers, Basia Bulat, The Wildwoods, and Taylor Rae.
Our Song of the Week is “Suitcase Song,” performed by stylistic chameleon Nellie McKay. Originally featured on Nellie’s 2004 debut album, Get Away from Me, “Suitcase Song” was rereleased on Gee Whiz: The Get Away from Me Demos, in 2025.