Country music

Billy Joe Shaver discusses his career and personal life

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews country musician Dwight Yoakam's new release, Blame the Vain. It's his 18th album.

Rock historian Ed Ward reviews a three-disc release of a Charlie Poole recording from the 1930s. The record, You Ain't Talkin' To Me, is from the Columbia Legacy label. Poole was a banjo-playing pioneer of country music.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews Mercy Now, the new album from singer-songwriter Mary Gauthier.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews the new CD Universal United House of Prayer by Buddy Miller.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews Snakebite: Blacktop Ballads and Fugitive Songs the new CD by Stan Ridgway.

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews the debut CD from country music singer Gretchen Wilson, Here for the Party.

Rock Critic Ken Tucker reviews the new Loretta Lynn CD Van Lear Rose. The CD features Jack White, lead singer and guitarist for the rock band The White Stripes.

Rock Historian Ed Ward listens to some Uncle Tupelo reissues. The group split up in 1994; its members formed Wilco and Son Volt.

She had several hits in the late '50s and early '60s, including "Mean Mean Man," "Let's Have a Party" and "Fujiyama Mama." In the '70s she kept recording music, mostly gospel. She's 65 now and still touring. She's just released her first studio recording in 15 years, Heart Trouble. Guest musicians, including Elvis Costello and The Cramps, join her for several tracks.