Tonight at 6 in the Lyric, Thacker Mountain Radio will be producing its weekly performance with special literary guest Jimbeau Hinson, author Jack Sacco and musical guests Bluegrass Appeal and the Harmonious Harmoneers.
“We’ve got reading about Faulkner, discussion of country music and breaking down the traditional stereotypes there, bluegrass music with an Appalachian taste and a local gospel group,” producer Kathryn McGaw said.
“Thacker Mountain is family-friendly and reliably eclectic, so I imagine anyone who loves live performance will find this a treat.”
Jimbeau Hinson is a singer, songwriter and author. Hinson wrote the 1981 hit “Fancy Free” for the Oak Ridge Boys and now writes and performs his own songs as well. His new album, “Strong Medicine,” is an autobiographical journey through his life about love, relationships and being HIV positive.
“Songs have always been my release valve,” Hinson said. “Once I’ve lived through a feeling, written it down and stood before people and let it all out, healing often takes place.”
Jimbeau plans on speaking about his past and playing three songs.
“I intend to let them know who I am and where I come from and touch upon how that happened,” Hinson said.
Hinson also mentioned he plans on using this chance to touch upon a growing problem in America.
“I feel pressed to talk about what nobody is talking about anymore: the rising infection rate of HIV in America and how completely avoidable it is,” he said.
Hinson said he is honored to take his place in such an esteemed local tradition.
“The chance to connect, reach out, open myself up and see what happens is what I am truly most excited about,” he said.
Author Jack Sacco writes a very different type of story. In his book “Above the Treetops,” Sacco paints a picture of the relationship between author William Faulkner and his young neighbor Bobby Little. Looking at history from a new point of view, Sacco will discuss his book and the information he uncovered while writing it.
“Students at Ole Miss are smart, interested people. This show, specifically, showcases lots of different pieces of the South,” McGaw said.
Bluegrass Appeal, a group from Jackson, promises to leave a memorable tune in the heads of the audience. Their CD, “From Dublin to the Delta,” was released in 2011, and the band plans on playing songs from the album.
A more local group, the Harmonious Harmoneers is a gospel group from right here in Oxford. They have been performing their a cappella style of music for over 30 years and plan on giving an animated performance.
“Like every show,” McGaw said, “I’m most excited about the opportunity to showcase amazing talent in a forum that is open to everyone.”
After the show, the Lyric will host a free screening of “Beautiful Jim,” a profile on Jimbeau.
“I hope folks will come out to enjoy the radio show and stay to enjoy the free screening of “Beautiful Jim,” McGaw said. “And, while they’re out, take in the ways that our community works together to create a totally welcoming environment for everyone from students to visitors to locals to artists on the show.”
