‘Nothin’ But The Blues’ celebrates 25 years on WMKY
Paul Hitchcock knows the blues, particularly “Nothin’ But The Blues,” a blues program he’s hosted for 25 years on Morehead State Public Radio (WMKY, 90.3FM).
The program originated in 1992 as a one-hour program airing Friday nights at 11 p.m. It evolved to two hours in 1994 moving to its current home on Saturday nights. In 2000, the program expanded to its current timeslot from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Through the years, “Nothin' But The Blues” has remained focused on the best in current and classic blues in all styles.
“Blues embodies every human emotion,” said Hitchcock, MSPR general manager. “You don’t have to be sad to appreciate the blues.”
Regular segments on the program include new album spotlights, festival and music news, Blue Chip Blues Tune and Soul Survivor.
Hitchcock has interviewed several musicians for the program including Elvin Bishop, Rory Block, Michael Burks, “Bowling Green” John Cephas, Deborah Coleman, Sue Foley, Dr. John, Greg Martin (Kentucky Headhunters) and Kim Wilson (Fabulous Thunderbirds).
In 1997, Mojo the Blues Cat was introduced as the official mascot of Nothin' But The Blues. T-shirts were designed featuring Mojo playing guitar, drums and singing the blues.
Hitchcock also helped to bring blues talent to the area by scheduling performers for the Americana Crossroads Live and Sundown at Moonlight Concert Series. He also was one of the organizers of the Cave Run Rock 'n Blues 'n BBQ Festival and Col. Bill Williams Greenup Heritage Music Festival.
“I love hosting the blues, it’s something I look forward to each week,” said Hitchcock. “Blues has been the backbone for many forms of music and I enjoy featuring the diverse styles of blues on the program.”
To celebrate 25 years of the program, Hitchcock will be spotlighting 25 albums that have inspired him through the years.
“The blues continues to evolve, but the roots of music remain the same,” said Hitchcock.
Serving more than 20 counties throughout eastern Kentucky, Morehead State Public Radio (WMKY) broadcasts at 90.3FM and online (www.wmky.org) from the campus of Morehead State University.
Questions or comments can be directed to Hitchcock at 606-783-2334.
