In the first half of the episode, we talk with Eli Smith of the Down Hill
Strugglers about their recent release “Old Juniper,” traditional songs versus
“covers,” and taking traditional songs and putting new words to them. We visit
about what “Old Time” music is and how Eli and the band got involved with it as
folks who grew up in New York. We also talk about what the term “Americana” means to him.  

The Down Hill Strugglers are:
Walker Shepard - fiddle, banjo, guitar, harmonica, voice
Jackson Lynch - fiddle, banjo, guitar, voice
Eli Smith - banjo, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, Jews harp, pump organ, voice 

The band was co-founded by John Cohen (1932-2019) 

Then we talk with Vanessa Collier about her latest release “Do it My Own Way,”
and its unintentional women-centric focus. We visit with her about her
decision to become a fulltime musician (over playing basketball or cooking!)
We also got to hear more about her special song “Warrior” written for her mom.  

 Check them out here: 

Down Hill Strugglers & Eli:

• Website: downhillstrugglers.com 
• Facebook: The Down Hill Strugglers 
• Instagram: downhillstrugglers 
• Eli—eli_smith_etc 

Vanessa Collier: 

•  Website: Vannessacolliermusic.com 
• Instagram: V_ness_sax 
• Facebook: Vanessa Collier
• Youtube: Vannessacollier33 

 

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