Words That Sing

In Episode 17, Clay explores the enduring songs of Don McLean, beginning with the mystery, memory, and cultural sweep of “American Pie.” Through “Vincent" and lesser know selections, he reveals a songwriter equally at home with history, love, loneliness, and the passage of time.

In this songwriter profile, Clay celebrates Robin and Linda Williams, the beloved Virginia folk duo whose partnership has spanned more than fifty years. Through songs of home, longing, love, loss, humor, and resilience, he explores Robin’s gift for storytelling, Linda’s luminous musicianship, and the personal history that has kept him returning to their concerts for decades. Listen closely to the lyrics: these are songs that speak from one heart directly to another.

A change of pace and a dip into nostalgia: three songs each from two beloved bands whose names have faded but whose sounds haven't — Little River Band and Three Dog Night. Along the way, a memory of leaving one life for another and discovering a musical revolution already underway. Lyrics, harmony, and a little celebration to close.

Join us for another episode of Words that Sing. In this episode Clay's selections are a post-independence day reflection on the songs and words that shape his ideas of who we are and where we have been.

This episode of Words That Sing, features Jackson Browne, one of the great songwriters of memory, longing, conscience, and the road. Browne’s songs have a way of sounding personal and universal at the same time — intimate enough to feel like a confession, but wide enough to hold a generation’s questions about love, loss, justice, and what it means to keep going. Clay reflects on Browne’s gift for making words sing with emotional honesty, moral seriousness, and a kind of restless beauty.

Join us for another episode of Words that Sing with you host Clay Hipp.

In this episode of Words That Sing, Clay explores the idea that music can speak even without lyrics. Moving from “songs that sing” to “notes that speak,” the episode invites listeners to hear instrumental music as a form of expression, memory, mood, and mystery. Featuring reflections on pieces by the Kruger Brothers and John Mackey, this episode is an invitation to listen more slowly and consider what music may be saying beyond words.

Goodness in the World

Three songs by one exceptional band to explore the art of living.

A reflection on a world that feels unsettled—and the songs that help us face it. Featuring American Aquarium, Linda Ronstadt, and more, this episode explores fear, love, and the quiet call to step into the darkness and be the light.