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First broadcast in 1994, Tent Show Radio is a weekly one-hour radio program showcasing the best live recordings from acclaimed music acts and entertainers who grace the Big Top Chautauqua stage each summer in beautiful Bayfield, WI. In the program's nearly 30 year history it has featured artists like Johnny Cash, B.B King, Brandi Carlile, Willie Nelson, Don McLean, and many more. Hosted by celebrated New York Times best-selling author Michael Perry-who weaves stories and humor throughout each episode - Tent Show Radio features performances from renowned national & regional artists, with regular appearances featuring Big Top’s own unique brand of shows that feature songs and stories performed by its acclaimed house band, The Blue Canvas Orchestra.

 

Tent Show Radio is independently produced by Big Top Chautauqua, a non-profit performing arts organization, with a mission to present performances and events that celebrate history and the environment - along with their annual summer concert series - nestled in the woods on the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

Dec 19, 2022

On this week’s episode of Tent Show Radio, savor an hour featuring archived recordings of music legends Richie Havens and Robert Cray. Richie Havens, known for his ragged voice, percussive musicianship, and soulful sensibility, is considered as one of the most influential artists of the 1960’s. From playing Woodstock to Carnegie Hall, Havens had an extensive touring career that lasted up until the year before his passing in 2013. This episode features recordings from Haven's 2009 performance under the tent. Regarded as one of the most commercially and critically successful blues artist of his generation, Robert Cray has remained a dominant force for over forty years due to his soulful and creative guitar work, alongside uniquely blended elements of rock, soul, pop, and traditional rhythm and blues. A five-time Grammy winner, Cray has written and performed with everyone from Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan to Tina Turner and Chuck Berry, has made numerous appearances in TV and film, released 20 acclaimed studio albums and a bundle of live albums that punctuate the Blues Hall of Famers career. This episode features recordings from Cray’s 2009 performance under the tent.

 

ADDITIONAL CREDITS:
Michael Perry, Host
Phillip Anich, Announcer
Matt Jugenheimer, Engineer & Producer

TENT SHOW RADIO IS SPONSORED BY:
Ashland Area Chamber of CommerceBayfield Chamber and Visitor BureauBayfield County TourismThe Bayfield InnCable Area Chamber of CommerceGreen Bay Packers FoundationWisconsin Public Radio