There’s a heaviness when you listen to Andy Thomas’ latest album, “Highway Junkie.” Not only from the swamp rock meets honkytonk melodies, but also the underlying tone and hard truths of this whirlwind journey of a singer-songwriter pushing into the next phase of his promising career. 

“It’s crazy when you set everything aside and put your mind to something,” Thomas said. “I’m a hard worker, and this album is a product of that.” 

At age 51, acclaimed blues rocker Patrick Sweany has performed over the decades at seemi­ngly at every venue from coast-to-coast and beyond. Through it all, one sentiment still rings true in his heart — “The whole thing is luck and trying to show up as much as possible.” 

Americana/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 3, at the Meadowlark Motel in Maggie Valley. 

When it comes to the vast, vibrant landscape of American blues guitarists, few six-string aces have had as varied and as illustrious a career over the last 30 years as that of Jimmy Vivino. 

Americana/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Sylva and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Franklin. 

Americana/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City.

Renowned blues act Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’Blues appears at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Peacock Performing Arts Center in Hayesville. 

Classic rock icons ZZ Top will perform at 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.

Formed in 1969 in Houston, ZZ Top is a legendary rock band known for its distinctive blend of blues, rock, and boogie.

Americana/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at Whiteside Brewing in Cashiers. 

Popular blues/folk singer-songwriter Heidi Holton will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, June 13, at The Scotsman Public House in Waynesville.