Simply Scottish

The Scottish roots of Gospel music and the Clan Houston are explored on this tribute to singer Whitney Houston. Hear an example of the Gaelic psalm singing style that evolved into the “call and response” technique found in gospel music. Learn how the Houston clan made their mark on America, and hear contrasting examples of the song Whitney sang in her first public performance. All this plus music from Capercaillie, John Richardson, Paul Machlis. and more.

Discover the artistic vision and creativity of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artistic muse Margaret MacDonald Mackintosh. Part of the Glasgow Style that influenced art movements throughout Europe, the Mackintosh's collaborative output is still admired and cherished today. Enjoy a great selection of Glasgow-themed music that celebrates this remarkable couple, including songs from Mike Katz, Blair Douglas, and Deacon Blue.

Scotland’s sweets and most popular drinks are the subject of this episode, our third in a series exploring Scottish cuisine. Learn about the sweet treats the Scots savor, including boilings, tablet, macaroons, and other goodies. You’ll also hear from Andrew McDiarmid Sr. about three of Scotland’s most enduring drinks – tea, IRN-BRU, and whisky. Hear music from Alasdair Fraser, Natalie Haas, Niamh Parsons, Runrig, the Old Blind Dogs, and more.

Scotland's most famous poet, Rabbie Burns is celebrated the world over for his Scots and English language poetry. More than just a writer, Burns is part of our social consciousness today and embodies the ideas we continue to hold dear, including the equality of humankind, liberty, and brotherhood. Tune in to learn more about Burns' life, loves, and legacy. Listen to stirring arrangements of Burns' songs from Eddi Reader, George Duff, Phil Coulter, Mae McKenna, Alan Reid & Sylvia Barnes.Visit the podcast section of www.simplyscottish.com for links to Burns books and websites.

Scottish innovation and creativity have benefited the world in many ways. On this episode of Simply Scottish, we look at just three of Scotland's contributions - the inimitable Lulu, the best-selling King James Bible, and the pedal-driven bicycle. Did you know Lulu was barely into her teenage years when she started singing publicly? Or that it took a team of several dozen translators seven years to produce their new English translation of the Bible under King James? And if people considered early velocipedes a thrill, wait until they saw what Kirkpatrick Macmillan came up with! All this plus music from The Silencers, Lulu, Niamh Parsons, and more!

A rags to riches story that typifies the American Dream...tune in as we explore the life of Andrew Carnegie on this episode of Simply Scottish, part of an ongoing series on famous Scots and their contributions to the world. Learn about Carnegie's humble childhood in Scotland and how a combination of hard work, ingenuity, and providence would help him achieve unparalleled success as a businessman and philanthropist during America's industrial age.

What do people in Scotland eat today? What's a Scotch pie? Do restaurants in Scotland serve traditional or modern dishes? Why is shortbread called "short" bread? Tune in to this episode of Simply Scottish, the 2nd in a series exploring Scottish cuisine. Enjoy music from Capercaillie, Phil Cunningham, the Bluebells, and more!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, find out how people in Scotland ring in the New Year! Learn all about Hogmanay - traditions, key events, and more. We'll also take a closer look at Edinburgh Castle, the most visited tourist attraction in Scotland. Hear music from Dougie Maclean, The Band of the Black Watch, Leahy, and others, all on this episode of Simply Scottish.For a full episode playlist and links to previous episodes, visit www.simplyscottish.com.

On this episode of Simply Scottish, explore how Christmas is celebrated in Scotland. We'll look at the history of the holiday and discuss examples of traditions that have stood the test of time. Take a break from the hustle and bustle, sip something warm, and tune in to this special Christmas edition of Simply Scottish.This episode features music from Aine Minogue, Deacon Blue, Robin Spielberg, and Andrew Young.For current and past episode playlists and links, visit the podcast section of www.simplyscottish.com.

On this episode of Simply Scottish, the first of a series on Scots Cuisine, we explore the history and development of Scottish food from medieval times to the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots. You'll find out how the plates of the wealthy and titled differed from those of farmers. We'll take a closer look at Scotland's national dish, haggis, and discuss the characteristics and common ingredients that make Scots cuisine distinct and appetizing.This episode features music from Runrig, Ian Bruce, and Alasdair Fraser.For current and past episode information, including music and resource links, visit the podcast section of our website at www.simplyscottish.com.

On this inaugural episode of Simply Scottish in podcast form, host Andrew McDiarmid speaks with his father, Andrew McDiarmid Sr., about the experience of starting and producing a Scottish radio program in South Texas in 1999. For three years, the father and son duo shared the best of all things Scottish - music, features, commentary, and interviews - with audiences in Texas, northern Mexico, and later Tennessee, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Ontario, Canada. Returning to the airwaves in a new podcast format in 2011, the future looks bright for this entertaining and informative program. Tune in to our first episode and enjoy the best of all things Scottish!This episode features music from The Proclaimers, Florie Brown, and Enya. For current and future episode information, including music and featured links, visit www.simplyscottish.com. Stay updated about new podcasts and prize giveaways by liking Simply Scottish on Facebook!