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May 02 - The Blues Music Awards, the Oscars of the blues, descend upon Memphis May 8. We will hear some of the nominees, including Watermelon Slim, Koko Taylor, Nick Moss, Bettye Lavette, and more. Plus, there is a chance for two lucky listeners to get tickets to the event, along with accommodations, and 250 bucks in folding money. Also new music from modern day troubadour Eric Bibb.

May 09 - Jeff Healey was a blind Canadian guitar player. He played the instrument on his lap, which may or may not have been the secret to his speed and explosive sound. Jeff passed on March 2, 2008, after a long struggle with cancer. He was 41. The Radio Hour looks back on his impressive, if all too short career, with rare interview coverage from the Radio Hour archives, and cuts from “Mess of Blues”, his first blues/rock album in eight years, released just a month after he passed away. Plus, new music from young roots player Samuel James.

May 16 - In honor of Mother’s Day, we pay tribute to the Women of the Blues - who mothered it, nurtured it, and let it go. Hear Bessie Smith, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Susan Tedeschi, Bonnie Raitt, Ruth Brown, Sue Foley, Marcia Ball, Shemekia Copeland, and more. In addition, new music from a very classy chanteuse,Catherine Russell.

May 23 - After a long and life-threatening illness, the Queen of the Chicago Blues went back to her roots last year. Koko Taylor’s album is called “Old School”, and is a triumphant shout out to the music that put her where she is today. We chat with Ms. Taylor about her life, and music, and (of course) spin the disc. Also: her old pals Willie Dixon and Hound Dog Taylor. Plus, a new CD from Louisiana roadhouse king, Big Daddy ‘O.