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Radio Bristol Highlights 10 Years of Farm and Fun Time with New Vinyl Compilation

BRISTOL, Tenn.-Va. (June 11, 2025) – Radio Bristol, a vital voice in the Appalachian region and a tastemaker in both the music and community spheres, is excited to mark its 10th anniversary with the release of “10 Years of Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time,” a special 12-song vinyl collection. The unique compilation features live performances from Farm and Fun Time, the beloved show that began as a modest, low-power FM broadcast and streaming platform. Over the years, it has captured the hearts of fans across the country, growing into a nationally syndicated, Emmy-nominated series available on more than 140 PBS channels across the U.S. The album celebrates a decade of incredible music, community, and unforgettable moments from the program.

Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time has grown tremendously over the course of 10 years,” said show host and creator Kris Truelsen. “We have had the privilege of hosting a plethora of the world’s leading artists over the past decade while also providing a platform to support artists from our region. This record highlights a few of our favorite performances through the years and serves as a big ‘thank you’ to our sustaining members who help keep Radio Bristol—a community supported radio station—on the air.”

Track Listing:

  • “Take This Hammer”  Willie Watson
  • “Lines In The Levee” Town Mountain
  • “Would You Like To Get Some Goats?” Melissa Carper
  • “You Might Think” Sons of the East
  • “Love and Chains” Viv and Riley
  • “Back to Square One” Sierra Ferrell
  • “Think I’ll Stay” Jesse Daniel
  • “Kitchen Floor” S.G. Goodman
  • “South Dakota Wild One”
    The Deslondes
  • “Duane Allman” Amy Ray Band
  • “Human” Alexa Rose
  • “Happy Pills” Palmyra
Graphic image of album "10 Years of Radio Bristol's Farm and Fun Time"

The album features a selection of performances from Farm and Fun Time, recorded before a live audience, and preserves the authentic energy and spirit of the show. Sierra Ferrell appears with a previously unreleased original song, joined by standout contributions from Amy Ray of The Indigo Girls, Willie Watson, S.G. Goodman, Sons of the East, and Town Mountain, to name a few. Many of the featured artists have ties to Bristol and Central Appalachia, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

“10 Years of Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time” is not for commercial sale, it is part of a limited edition incentive package for Radio Bristol’s annual fund drive campaign, slated for June 18-19. The package is exclusively for donors who join the station’s Radio Bristol Record Breakers membership program during the fund drive, while supplies last. To become a Radio Bristol Record Breaker, a one-time donation of $300 or a monthly donation of $25 for one year is required.

"10 Years of Radio Bristol's Farm and Fun Time" album cover. "10 Years of Radio Bristol's Farm and Fun Time" album back cover.

The album is pressed onto brilliant blue-colored vinyl, made by Citizen Vinyl, based in Asheville, N.C. Radio Bristol Record Breakers also receive a graphic tee and stickers designed by artist Kelley Wills of Brain Flower Designs, a membership to the Birthplace of Country Music’s 1927 Society, and more. To become a Radio Bristol Record Breaker, visit https://birthplaceofcountrymusic.org/radio-bristol-wbcm/support/.

Radio Bristol broadcasts from inside the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, in Historic Downtown Bristol, Va.-Tenn. The station launched the monthly Farm and Fun Time as a radio show in April 2015 prior to its transition to television.

Radio Bristol’s weekly lineup features a wide range of unique and original programming, spanning various music genres, all rooted in country and American roots traditions. To listen live to Radio Bristol’s programming, tune into 100.1 FM in the Bristol area or visit ListenRadioBristol.org, where you will also find archives of your favorite shows. Radio Bristol is also available via the station’s free mobile app.

Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time nominated for an Emmy Award

BRISTOL, Tenn.-Va. (May 20, 2025) – The Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) is proud to announce WBCM Radio Bristol General Manager Josh Littleton is nominated for an Emmy from the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for his work on the station’s popular “Farm and Fun Time” show. Littleton, the program’s audio engineer, is nominated in the category of Audio Recording, Mixing & Design.

“Congratulations to Josh and Radio Bristol on this well-deserved Emmy nomination and a remarkable 10 years on the air,” said BCM Executive Director Melissa Roberts.” From the beginning, the entire Radio Bristol team continues to exceed expectations in their commitment to community connection and innovation. We couldn’t more proud of what Radio Bristol has become and where it’s headed.”

Radio Bristol’s “Farm and Fun Time” is a high-energy television and radio program that features nationally-touring roots music artists and thoughtful segments that celebrate our diverse Appalachian culture. The show broadcasts and streams before a live audience each month, either from its home base at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum or the historic stage at Paramount Bristol.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Josh and the tireless work he has put into making ‘Farm and Fun Time’ the highest of quality,” said Radio Bristol Program Director and show host Kris Truelsen.” With 10 years behind the scenes, Josh has been instrumental in making this show a success. This nomination couldn’t be more deserved.”
Winners will be announced at the 67th Emmy Awards Gala on June 21. The program will stream live from the website at www.capitalemmys.tv starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Radio Bristol’s “Farm and Fun Time” is now available for viewing on 143 PBS channels in 80 markets nationwide and made possible by Eastman Credit Union, Toyota of Bristol, Virginia Tourism Corporation, WCYB-TV, and the City of Bristol, Tenn, with captioning provided by Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards. The program broadcasts live on WBCM Radio Bristol at 100.1 FM in the Bristol area with streaming available on the station’s Facebook page, at ListenRadioBristol.org and through the station’s free mobile app.

Radio Bristol 10th Anniversary Celebration with The War & Treaty, Madeline Edwards on Juneteenth

BRISTOL, Tenn.-Va. (May 19, 2025) – Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Radio Bristol celebrates its 10th anniversary in style, bringing together the inspirational sounds of The War & Treaty – Americana’s beloved powerhouse husband-and-wife duo – for a special Farm and Fun Time filled with joy, positivity, and musical magic. Join the celebration at 7 p.m. ET, June 19 – the Juneteenth holiday – at Paramount Bristol as these chart-topping guest stars ignite the stage with their signature blend of Americana, soul, and pure heart.

CMT “Next Women of Country” nominee Madeline Edwards will also take the spotlight. The artist has been heralded as “a one-to-watch vocalist with charisma to burn” by Rolling Stone, and adds her captivating and genre-defying songwriting into the mix. Radio Bristol’s very own Kris Truelsen will be hosting the evening, joined by his stellar Farm and Fun Time House Band, ensuring the night is packed with the perfect blend of music heritage, good vibes, and uplifting entertainment.

In honor of 10 years on the air, representatives from the twin cities of Bristol will present Radio Bristol with a special proclamation. Radio Bristol will also take time recognize on-air talent – many of them volunteers – for their service to the community-supported station.

Founded in 2014 by Michael and Tanya Trotter, The War & Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying acts in American music. Recently earning their first GRAMMY nominations for Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song for “Blank Page,” they also received their first Duo of the Year nomination from the Country Music Association, Vocal Duo nomination from the Academy of Country Music, plus recognition by the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Americana Music Association, including earning AMA Duo/Group of the Year for the second straight year.

The War & Treaty has captivated audiences across the globe from North America to Europe, Australia and beyond, while headlining their own shows and opening for a diverse group of living legends –  Al Green, Brandi Carlile, Chris Stapleton, John Legend, Lauren Daigle, Jason Isbell and Van Morrison among them.

Born in California and raised in Houston, Texas, Edwards has the ability to push genre boundaries while staying rooted in heartfelt, deeply personal songwriting. She first gained widespread recognition with her breakout performances in 2021, leading to critical acclaim for her debut album “Crashlanded” and national television appearances. She has since shared the stage with some of music’s most iconic artists, performing alongside Alanis Morisette and joining Chris Stapleton on tour, further cementing her reputation as one of the most compelling new voices in modern music.

Radio Bristol Program Director and host Kris Truelsen has spent the better part of two decades touring across the country, honing his craft as a songwriter and performer. With his latest project fronting the Farm and Fun Time House Band, he leans into the rock ‘n’ roll side of country music. It’s rowdy, loose and unmistakably Kris. The band features an all-star lineup including Nick Lawrence (guitar), Rebecca Branson Jones (pedal steel), Sarah Griffin (bass), and Levi Trent (drums).

Tickets to Farm and Fun Time may be purchased online through the Events page at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org at ParamountBristol.org or through the Paramount Bristol box office.

Farm and Fun Time is a celebration of Appalachian music and culture. The program, edited for television, now airs on more than 70 PBS stations nationwide. The program is made possible by Eastman Credit UnionToyota of BristolVirginia Tourism Corporation, WCYB-TV, and the City of Bristol, Tenn, with captioning provided by Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards. The program broadcasts live on WBCM Radio Bristol at 100.1 FM in the Bristol area with streaming available on the station’s Facebook page, at ListenRadioBristol.org and through the station’s free mobile app.

For the love of music, art, and learning

BRISTOL, Tenn.-Va. (April 24, 2025) – For lovers of music and art, the Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) celebrates southern Appalachian spring melodies with a packed calendar in the month of May. Each event takes place at the Smithsonian-affiliated Birthplace of Country Music Museum, located in the heart of Bristol’s historic downtown, with the exception of the spectacular Farm and Fun Time show, which will be held on the grand stage of Paramount Bristol at 7 p.m. ET, May 8. Musical guests The Dead South and Sunny War will perform on the popular WBCM Radio Bristol production, which is recorded live and edited for broadcast on PBS channels across the country. Tickets are on sale now at ParamountBristol.org.

Kicking things off May 1 at 6:30 p.m., travel through time to the Golden Era of radio and experience a rare, live recording of The Stanley Brothers & the Clinch Mountain Boys performing on WCYB Radio’s classic Farm and Fun Time program from the 1940s and 1950s. Thought to be lost forever, this historic gem has been digitally restored from a deteriorating transcription disc. There is no cost to attend the Listening Party and this glimpse into the early days of the group’s legendary career. If you plan to be there, please RSVP through the Events page at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.

Artists and art lovers will have the opportunity to study under celebrated artist, muralist, and instructor Ellen Elmes during a hands-on music and art workshop May 3 at 1 p.m. During the workshop, Ellen will guide participants through the creative process to the accompaniment of live music by singer-songwriter and Radio Bristol show host Ella Patrick. Art supplies are included in the $20 (+tax/fee) registration. Class size is limited so don’t hesitate to sign up. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to take in a special exhibit of Elmes’ work, entitled Ellen Elmes: The Art of Music and Mountains, on display now at the museum.

Toddlers and their grown ups are invited to Museum Storytime on May 2 at 10:30 a.m., where they’ll read along to children’s books about “Highwaymen” Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, followed by a sing-along with Ella Patrick. Held monthly every first Friday in the museum’s Learning Center, Museum Storytime is a “priceless” experience for families. Older children who are interested in learning an instrument may take part in weekly group music lessons with JAM Kids held Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Lessons are priced affordably at $5 a class or $45 for 10 classes.

Local and regional songwriters commune and collaborate every second Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. during the Songwriters Circle, hosted by Mary Munsey of Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia. Every fourth Saturday the East Tennessee Bluegrass Music Association leads bluegrass musicians who just want to get together and jam. Songwriters Circle and Monthly Bluegrass Jams are both no-cost events.

May’s Speaker Session, entitled “Country Music, Comedy, and the Small Screen,” examines the cross-over careers of Tennessee Ernie Ford, Minnie Pearl, and Roni Stoneman and their characterizations of common Appalachian personas. The event is free to attend, but folks are asked to kindly RSVP. If you can’t be there in person, the program will stream live on Radio Bristol’s YouTube channel.

On May 17 eighth-generation Appalachian ballad singer Donna Ray Norton hosts “The Nest of Singing Birds Ballad Swap,” an evening where regional singers explore the legacy of this unique art form through story and song. The name of this program comes from early 20th-century song collector Cecil Sharp’s reference to Madison County, North Carolina’s rich ballad legacy as a “nest of singing birds.” Following Hurricane Helene’s devastation of their hometown, this group of ballad singers has been traveling their regular ballad swap at the Old Marshall Jail to raise awareness of the practice’s fragility and the region it depends on. Registration for the event is $15 (+tax/fee).

BCM May Events Calendar: 

May 1 | 6:30 p.m. | Museum:  Stanley Brothers Transcription Disc Listening Party

May 2 | 10:30 a.m. | Museum:  Museum Storytime on The Highwaymen (Hello, I’m Johnny Cash by G. Neri, A Little Golden Book Biography: Willie Nelson by Jeffrey Ebbeler)

May 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31 | 10:30 a.m. | Museum: JAM Kids Weekly Music Lesson

May 3 | 1 p.m. | Museum: Music & Art Workshop with Ellen Elmes (for adults)

May 8 | 7 p.m.| Paramount Bristol: Farm and Fun Time feat. The Dead South, Sunny War 

May 10 | 2 p.m. | Museum: Songwriters Circle hosted by Songwriters of Highlands Appalachia

May 13 | 7 p.m. | Museum/Online: Speaker Session: Country Music, Comedy, and the Small Screen w/ Erika Barker and Julia Underkoffler

May 17 | 7 p.m. | Museum: Nest of Singing Birds: A Ballad Swap “Love & Murder A Capella” w/ Donna Ray Norton

May 24 | 2 p.m. | Museum: Monthly Bluegrass Jam hosted by East Tennessee Bluegrass Association

For tickets and more information about BCM events or to RSVP to an event, visit the Events page at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.