Join writer Mark Kemp as he travels to North Carolina’s High Country, where he meets a guitarist who has carried on the region’s musical identity by teaching students the rich traditions of Appalachian music for five decades.
North Carolina, Noted: Richie Crowder
Join writer Mark Kemp as he travels to western North Carolina to meet a luthier who crafts instruments with backstories as rich as the people who play them.
Beach Music
Join writer Mark Kemp as we turn up the volume on the quintessential sound of summer: beach music. In this episode, we meet the band The Embers, whose classic tunes inspire shag dancers across the state.
Remembering Roberta Flack
Before her voice captivated the world with pop hits like “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” Roberta Flack — who was born in Black Mountain — began her career in eastern North Carolina, teaching and encouraging choral students at H.B. Sugg School.
Memories of Vinyl
Senior Editor Mark Kemp reflects on his earliest memories of vinyl records and how many faithful breakfasts of Post-brand cereal laid the foundation for an extensive record collection showcasing voices and sounds from across North Carolina and beyond.
The Martha Bassett Show
On Thursday evenings at the historic Reeves Theater in Elkin, North Carolina, musician Martha Bassett transports live audiences back to simpler times with a variety show featuring talented local musicians and those who travel in from around the country.
Mariachi in Lincolnton
Join Senior Editor Mark Kemp as he meets the band Grupo Vale during a quinceañero in Lincolnton.
Eastern Gospel: Singing With Faith & Harmony
In this episode of North Carolina, Noted, an all-women’s gospel group sings songs of praise and taps into the spiritual traditions of their ancestors.
