Back to the Light

Back to the Light


Latest Episodes

Reissue: New Beats, New Rhythms with Howard Grimes (Hi Rhythm, Al Green, Ann Peebles) - WYXR VERSION
June 21, 2022

Host J.D. Reager revisits his conversation with a Memphis music icon, the late Howard Grimes. They discuss Mr. Grimes' early career as a drummer in the '50s, his work with fellow legends such as Rufus & Carla Thomas, William Bell, Al Green, Ann Peeble

Lack of Direction LIVE from The Green Room with Jason Pulley (Tape Deck, Glorious Abhor, Fugitive Droids)
June 13, 2022

Host J.D. Reager and musician Jason Pulley attempt to provide context for the slightly abnormal (in a fun way) live performance that follows. Most of this episode was recorded live on March 17, 2022 in Memphis, TN at The Green Room in Crosstown Arts.&nbsp

Open Mind and Open Heart with Rico Fields and Ra'id (The Negro Terror)
June 06, 2022

Host J.D. Reager talks to musicians Rico Fields and Ra'id about their respective musical histories prior to Negro Terror, joining forces with the late Omar Higgins, making the documentary Negro Terror: The Voice of Memphis, Omar's unfortunate passing and

She's Always Known with Garrison Starr
May 31, 2022

In honor of the 25th anniversary of her debut album Eighteen Over Me, host J.D. Reager talks to musician and songwriter Garrison Starr about the making of that record and how having a breakthrough hit ("Superhero") changed her life, plus her escape from t

Friend of the Show with James Enck (Turnt, The Long Mynd, A World Away)
May 16, 2022

Host J.D. Reager talks to musician and radio host James Enck about his personal story of recovery, the intertwined nature of the music and alcohol industries, his predilection for musical "torture," doing a show for WYXR, and more. J.D. also spins "So Dis

A Pretty Lucky Guy with Jody Stephens (Big Star, Those Pretty Wrongs)
May 09, 2022

In honor of the 50th anniversary of Big Star's #1 Record, host J.D. Reager talks to surviving member Jody Stephens about the making of that album and how joining the band changed his life. They also discuss his work with Those Pretty Wrongs, Golden Smog,

The Lord's Chords with Chris Milam
May 02, 2022

Host J.D. Reager talks to musician, songwriter and fellow podcast host Chris Milam about his life and career, having mixed feelings about Memphis, overcoming issues with mental health and substance abuse, collaborating with the great William Bell, and mor

LIVE from Midtown Con with Joshua McLane (HEELS, South Point Grocery) and Harry Koniditsiotis (The Switchblade Kid, 5 & Dime Recording)
April 25, 2022

Host J.D. Reager chats with returning guests Joshua McLane (HEELS, South Point Grocery) and Harry Koniditsiotis (The Switchblade Kid, 5 & Dime Recording) live on the scene of the inaugural Midtown Con! This episode was recorded on April 9, 2022 at Bla

Songs & Stories Part 3 LIVE from The Green Room with Graham Burks (Loose Opinions) and HEELS
April 18, 2022

Host J.D. Reager shares an on-stage moment with guests Graham Burks (Loose Opinions) and HEELS. This episode was recorded live on March 17, 2022 in Memphis, TN at The Green Room in Crosstown Arts.

Songs & Stories Part 2 LIVE from The Green Room with Cory Branan and Alicja Trout (Alicja-Pop, River City Tanlines)
April 11, 2022

Host J.D. Reager shares an on-stage moment with guests Cory Branan and Alicja Trout (Alicja-Pop, River City Tanlines). This episode was recorded live on March 17, 2022 in Memphis, TN at The Green Room in Crosstown Arts.