Panhandle Country

On air

Tuesdays · 11:00 AM · EST

WHUP

About the show

Becky Johnson—widely revered across the acoustic music community by her iconic moniker, "Mrs. Bluegrass"—is a highly accomplished and deeply knowledgeable roots music authority. Based in North Carolina, Becky has spent decades serving as a dedicated preservationist, writer, and trusted on-air personality. Her deep, lifelong devotion to the genre has made her a beloved staple of the local arts scene, where she uses her immense expertise to give independent acoustic musicians a powerful voice. Becky brings her signature warmth and unrivaled musical collection to the airwaves every week as the creator and host of Panhandle Country on WHUP 104.7 FM in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Since the station's founding by Hillsborough Community Media, Becky’s Tuesday morning slot has served as a critical cultural anchor for listeners looking to break past generic radio formulas. On-Air Style & Sound A Roots Music Crossroad: True to the show's inclusive philosophy, Becky masterfully bridges the gaps between genres. Her playlists form an eclectic, high-energy crossroad where Traditional Bluegrass, Country & Western, and high-octane Rockabilly meet. Old, New, Borrowed & Blue: Adhering to her signature on-air curation style, Becky hand-selects every single track to deliver a perfect, dynamic balance of timeless vintage oldies, brand-new chart releases, unique acoustic covers, and soulful country blues. Authentic and Unfiltered: Becky runs a strict "real stuff only" broadcast. Listeners can expect to skip the polished commercial pop, tuning in instead for raw, honest songwriting and top-shelf string instrumentation. The Neighborhood Vibe: Driven by Becky’s friendly, seasoned delivery, the show treats global streaming audiences and Piedmont region locals alike to a relaxed, cozy atmosphere that feels like hanging out on a front porch.