Common Chords Podcast

No Map, No Fear: Lois Pryce’s Solo Ride Across Iran

Lois Pryce is a reporter for the BBC, the author of several internationally acclaimed books, and, quite literally, a globe-trotter on two wheels. She’s traveled the world solo by motorcycle, including epic rides from London to Cape Town and across Iran; journeys that are nothing short of mind-boggling. While Lois is also a banjo player, in this episode I really wanted to focus on her global adventures. Her stories are riveting, and she speaks about her travels with such excitement and passion that it’s impossible not to get swept up in them. If you’re into stories about fearless exploration, cultural discovery, and bold curiosity, this one’s for you.

The Voice of the Bakiga: Joe Kahiri’s Story

Joe Kahiri, a proud son of Uganda, embodies the spirit of a true African renaissance man. Acclaimed for both his music and his award-winning acting, all of his creative work is deeply rooted in the small community where he was raised. In this episode, Joe introduces us to the Bakiga people of Uganda, offers a glimpse into the life of a professional musician in East Africa, and joins Ben in a heartfelt reflection on the importance of reconnecting with our favorite music in solitude.

David Lübke: The Bard and the Bundesrepublik

David Lübke is a German folk singer with a mastery of both the banjo and guitar that matches his deeply introspective songwriting. He also happens to write songs almost exclusively in German, celebrating and reviving the 19th and early 20th century traditions of songs about democracy and peace that are often forgotten. We met David on an early European tour and fell in love with his infectious energy and love for music, alongside his ability to see beauty in the world around him. This episode takes some amazing twists and turns, including David’s hilarious and sweet adventure hitchhiking to the Clifftop Festival on his first trip to the US and our magical collaboration at the Rudolstadt Festival in Germany in 2024.