DJ Profiles: Taylor Austin

A crusader for classic country. A folk, rockabilly, and Ameripolitan polyglot. His love of country may only be matched by his love of good ol’ fashioned radio. His name is Taylor Austin, and from 9am to noon on Wednesdays you can hear his show, ‘Cousin Early’s Late Night Country Show for Anytime.’

Taylor’s passion for radio started when he was invited to help WVTC, Vermont Tech’s student-run radio station, during their 24 hour vinyl-thon. It was during the marathon’s home stretch when the station realized they didn’t have enough vinyl. Songs began to repeat. Desperate eyes scanned the room, searching for unopened sleeves and unplayed B-sides. In such times, true heroes rise from the masses, and Taylor offered a helping hand. He rushed home, and filled four boxes with records, which amounted to only a sampling of his over 5,000 vinyls.

Suffice it to say, the crew at WVTC were impressed, and Taylor was offered a spot on the team. His work as a DJ has since led him to the Big Heavy World studio, where he broadcasts classic country, Ameripolitan, and folk music. You can hear artists and bands like Dale Watson, Sarah Shook and the Disarmers, The Countryside of Harmonica Sam, and one song per day by Vermont’s own Starline Rhythm boys. Think steel guitar, a healthy dose of twang, and unique originals chock full of imaginative storytelling. Nothing but three chords and the truth.

Photo by James Lockridge.

Text by Luke Vidic.