Episode 18: Railroad Bill

Step into the shadowy crossroads where folk music meets true crime with Some Dark Holler: A Murder Ballad Podcast. Hosted by folk singers and performers Amelia Cormack and Allison Guinn, this podcast resurrects the ancient tradition of the murder ballad-those haunting narrative songs that served as the original, chilling form of tabloid news long before modern media. Each episode is a deep dive into a specific song, where the hosts first perform the traditional ballad in its raw, melodic form, letting the old tunes and grim tales set the atmosphere. Then, they pull back the curtain to investigate the real history and true crime stories that likely inspired the lyrics, weaving together musical analysis and historical research. The result is a uniquely atmospheric listen that feels part concert, part detective story, exploring why these dark tales of love, betrayal, and violence have captivated listeners for centuries. It’s for anyone fascinated by the roots of storytelling, the eerie persistence of folklore, and the unsettling truths behind the melody. Find Some Dark Holler wherever you get your podcasts.