Steve Poltz | Santa Cruz, Saul Bellow, and Kidnapping John Prine
In this episode of Americana Podcast, singer-songwriter Steve Poltz is spotlighted for his unique blend of storytelling, humor, and unpredictability that challenges the boundaries of American roots music. Known for co-writing Jewel’s hit You Were Meant for Me, Poltz’s career spans decades and defies easy categorization, blending folk traditions with playful innovation. The episode also features a live performance and delves into how Poltz bridges DIY folk-punk with Americana’s narrative legacy
Americana Podcast · Steve Poltz, Robert Earl Keen
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (chtbl.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
Americana Podcast explores the artists and ideas shaping American roots music, focusing this episode on the genre-defying Steve Poltz. Poltz is celebrated for his originality, blending tradition with unpredictability in a career that spans decades. Born in Nova Scotia and raised in Southern California, he first gained widespread attention as the co-writer of Jewel’s hit You Were Meant for Me. However, his true impact lies in his continual reinvention and subversion of Americana norms. His work reflects the folk tradition’s emphasis on storytelling and community, while also embracing humor, vulnerability, and improvisation. Poltz serves as a creative link between the West Coast’s DIY folk-punk movement and the broader narrative tradition of American roots music. This episode examines how his artistic approach challenges expectations and keeps audiences engaged. Listeners are also invited to watch a live performance of You Were Meant for Me with the Robert Earl Keen Band on YouTube.
Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!
https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial
Donate to the show!
https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcast
@robertearlkeen1
Have questions or suggestions? Email
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.