Musicians' Spotlight

Jazz composer and guitarist Julian Lage began his performance career at six, and soon was featured in an Academy Award-winning documentary, "Jules At Eight." Now in his early twenties, Lage has worked as a side man and has released two critically acclaimed solo CD's.

James McMurtry, who's been called "America's fiercest singer songwriter," makes his first appearance on Musician's Spotlight. Drawing on a twenty-five- year career, there's rarely a dull moment in a conversation that covers music, turkey hunting and "camo" hats.

In the second part of this two-part program, Chris Hillman and long-time collaborator Herb Pedersen continue their conversation with host John Floridis, discussing The Desert Rose Band and their current duo. Chris also recounts of the loss of his friend and bandmate, Graham Parsons.

Chris Hillman is a founding member of The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Manasas and The Desert Rose Band. In the first of a two-part program, Hillman and his long-time collaborator, Herb Pedersen, recall first-hand various moments from country-rock history.

Renowned pianist and jazz keyboardist; multiple Grammy and Oscar award-winning composer of film scores; conductor; arranger; producer. Dave Grusin's half-century in music has been remarkably deep and broad, and he remains passionate about his craft.

For decades, Sonny Landreth has brought his swampy, explosive blues to audiences around the world. A virtuoso slide guitarist and singer, the Mississippi-born musician now hails from Lafayette, Louisiana.

Austin, Texas-based singer-songwriter Raina Rose brings an optimistic perspective to her music and extends this attitude to her audience. With a naturalist's eye and an artist's pen, in her songs, Raina lays everything on the line.

Singer-songwriter duo from Missoula release their first e.p.

Hailed for his ability to blend avant-garde jazz and rock music, guitarist/composer Nels Cline was nevertheless on the verge of getting a "day job" when, six years ago, he got a call from the band Wilco. Cline's career has since flourished.

Members of the group Solas join John Floridis to discuss two new projects: a recording that highlights band members Mick McCauley and Winifred Horan; and "Shamrock City," a new Solas CD/DVD project tracing the Irish-American experience in Butte, Montana.