Americana Podcast

Author: Robert Earl Keen

Americana Podcast: The 51st State is a platform dedicated to sharing and expanding on the Americana genre's roots, reach, and definition. Each episode is told from the point of view of the musicians that have dedicated their lives to it. Robert Earl Keen, Americana pioneer and host, interviews musicians, exploring their unique histories, creative processes, successes, failures, and everything in between.
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Language: en

Genres: Music, Music Commentary, Music Interviews

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Take Me to Church | Meat Church with Matt Pittman
Episode 52
Tuesday, 14 April, 2026

On this episode of Americana Podcast: The 51st State, Robert Earl Keen sits down with Matt Pittman to explore the rhythm, tradition, and storytelling behind barbecue. Born and raised in Texas, Pittman built Meat Church from humble backyard beginnings into a widely followed brand known for its seasonings, classes, and YouTube channel. What started as trial and error became a craft rooted in patience, repetition, and instinct. Together, Keen and Pittman draw parallels between food and music—where the slow burn of a smoker mirrors a steady groove, and tradition provides the structure for creativity. They discuss how barbecue, like songwriting, is passed down, shaped by region, and constantly evolving without losing its identity. In a fast-moving world, this conversation is a reminder to slow down—to listen, to learn, and to appreciate the time it takes to create something meaningful. Because whether it’s a song, a story, or a meal, the best things are built patiently and shared together. Episodes and Bonus content available on YOUTUBE!https://www.youtube.com/@robertearlkeenofficial Donate to the show!https://tiptopjar.com/americanapodcastInstagram@robertearlkeen1Have questions or suggestions? Emailcreatedirector@robertearlkeen.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.