Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger traces his musical journey, from his California punk and hip‑hop roots to finding his songwriting voice in North Carolina. He also reflects on folklore, fatherhood and the themes that have shaped his latest record, “I’m People.” Hosted by PBS NC’s James Mieczkowski.

Watch Hiss Golden Messenger perform: youtu.be/iKzDgHcV7HM

From the podcast:
00:00 – Iconic American rock bands
06:07 – MC Taylor's early musical influences
25:58 – Folklore at University of North Carolina
33:18 – The evolution of Hiss Golden Messenger
44:02 – The theme of Hiss Golden Messenger's new album, "I'm Joy"
48:00 – The Shaped by Sound setlist

Shaped by Sound
This PBS NC original series, which spotlights North Carolina’s thriving music scene, features artists from a broad range of genres, including indie rock, hip-hop, R&B, alt-country, jazz, bluegrass and folk. Each episode weaves a visually stunning live studio performance by an NC artist or band with an intimate conversation about their creative journey.

Shaped By Sound is a co-production of PBS North Carolina and the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The series is presented by Come Hear North Carolina.

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