Up On the Ridge

On air

8:00 AM – 11:00 AM · ET

WBGJ · North Carolina

Bluegrass

About the show

Ron Ackerman is a prominent, deeply dedicated figure in the bluegrass community who has spent decades promoting, broadcasting, and protecting acoustic roots heritage. Ron’s life story is one of service and passion; he is a proud veteran who served a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. His intense love for bluegrass truly ignited during his travels, leading him to transition from an avid fan recording online shows to a major regional industry leader. Ron famously served as the President of the North Carolina Bluegrass Association for four years, organizing benefits, booking talent, and advocating heavily for local musicians. In September 2015, Ron brought his massive industry knowledge to the airwaves. He became a foundational radio personality for The Bluegrass Jamboree network and is highly sought after by global syndicates. Driven by his personal motto—"Hear the music through the trees"—Ron pulls double programming duty, hosting his flagship show Up On the Ridge alongside his highly popular companion broadcast, Off The Beaten Path. On-Air Style & Sound Ridge Runner Community: Listeners of Up On the Ridge proudly call themselves "Ridge Runners". Ron builds a highly interactive, tightly-knit weekly community where audience member song requests drive the soul of the playlist. A World View Format: Ron rejects narrow formulas, choosing to treat listeners to an expansive look at the genre. The musical rotation masterfully weaves between traditional hard-driving bluegrass, contemporary hits, progressive styles, and acoustic instrumentals. Bluegrass Gospel Blocks: Mirroring his deep roots in southern music culture, Ron anchors his broadcasts with a beautifully curated selection of soulful bluegrass gospel music. Good Music, Off the Stage: True to his second hit show, Off The Beaten Path, Ron loves to hunt down hidden gems, independent artists, and raw, front-porch picking sessions that prove "good music isn't always on a stage".