Where the Mountains Sing: A Love Letter to Appalachia | Michael Holstein

Deep in the mountains of Kentucky, Laurel Cove is more than a music festival. It's a celebration of music, community and the people of Appalachia.In this episode of Rugged Revival, we're joined by Michael Holstein, an award-winning filmmaker, director and producer with over 20 years of experience in television, film and music. His impressive career includes productions such as PBS's "In Performance at the White House", "Live at 9:30" and "An Opry Salute to Ray Charles".Michael joins Terry and Lance Rogers to discuss his upcoming documentary, "Where the Mountains Sing", which tells the story of Kentucky's remarkable Laurel Cove Music Festival and the people who make it so special.From the musicians and organisers to the fans and local community, Michael explains why this is about far more than music. It's a love letter to Appalachia, celebrating its people, traditions, authenticity and the extraordinary sense of belonging that brings them together.Discover the documentary: https://wherethemountainssing.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction: Michael Holstein & Where the Mountains Sing01:12 Manchester City, Oasis & Football Rivalries04:31 Michael's Background & Early Life06:46 NASCAR, Racing & Discovering a Hidden Talent11:34 Why Small-Town Music Festivals Are So Special13:28 From College Dropout to Filmmaker20:56 From Law to PBS & the White House Concerts25:58 A Private Beatles Concert with Paul McCartney31:26 The Television Show That Went Disastrously Wrong34:26 How Cole Chaney Introduced Michael to Laurel Cove37:24 Challenging the Stereotypes of Appalachia39:04 Bringing Where the Mountains Sing to Life43:20 Laurel Cove's Impact on Bell County & Kentucky Music50:44 Why the Documentary Is Really About the People53:08 The Trailer, Release Plans & Stories Left Untold57:20 Authentic Music, Artists & Appalachian Identity61:48 Nashville, Commercial Success & Staying True to Your Roots66:36 Giving Back: Appalachian Charities, Education & Amazon Prime71:58 Film Premieres, Future Plans & Final ThoughtsSubscribe to The Rugged Revival. Share it with your friends. Support independent music!Listen to the full podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wnHcgA73o1aiiKaz882vH?si=30aabdaa220a4628Follow The Rugged Revival:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theruggedrevival/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theruggedrevivalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094507520679Website: www.theruggedrevival.comEmail: ruggedrevival@hotmail.com