Stay ConnectedDr. Stephen Sloan of Baylor’s Institute for Oral History and Department of History explores the people, places, and stories that have shaped Waco, Texas.
Through interviews, local-history insights, and narrative storytelling, the podcast highlights both well-known events and lesser-told community histories—helping listeners learn more about Waco and its place in broader Texas history.
In this episode explore the remarkable story of Waco-born Hank Thompson, the “King of Western Swing,” whose talent and determination took him from local radio to national stardom. His signature song, “The Wild Side of Life” embodies his innovative sound with the legendary Brazos Valley Boys.
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Born in Waco in 1937, folk singer Carolyn Hester became a major figure in the 1960s folk revival, recording an influential early version of “The House of the Rising Sun” in 1961 that helped establish her reputation as the “Texas Songbird.”
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Waco History Mixtape: Whacko from Waco by Billie Joe Shaver
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The Crush Collision March by Scott Joplin was a live performance with a twist. It was a backing track of a spectacle of purposely crashing two trains together, all in Waco.
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Ol' Man River was featured in the original stage production Show Boat (1927) by Waco Native Jules Bledsoe, and has been covered multiple times since.
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As the first episode of the Waco History Mixtape, Across the Brazos by Billy Walker, a song previously used on our regular format, was the best choice.
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Join Stephen Sloan and guest host Jim Benninghoff will discuss history and build a playlist of great Waco artists and iconic songs about Waco!
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Join Stephen Sloan and Rick Tullis as they cap off the year's journey of covering 175 years of Waco history with a final live show! Location at Vitek's BBQ March 19th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM.
Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-waco-history-podcast-live-show-at-viteks-bbq-celebrating-175-years-tickets-1982219123759
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Between 2000 and 2025, Waco underwent steady transformation driven by demographic growth, shifting economic patterns, and evolving civic priorities. The city moved beyond late-20th-century challenges and reemerged as a regional center for education, health care, and culture. Expanding institutions and rising population anchored public life as Waco’s identity matured, marking a new chapter in its modern history.
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