Join us and hear our listeners’ predictions for the upcoming year, and song picks to match — plus a few all-star dedications to boot, including Tom Waits and others. Plus we visit a local prognosticator for a professional opinion on what the upcoming year has in store.

Here at American Routes we don’t care if you’ve been naughty or nice—we have a present for everyone. So stoke the fire and mix up a nice hot toddy as we play Santa and deliver two hours of great holiday and seasonal music. We’ll also bring you a live recording of the Zion Harmonizers, coming to carol at the studio. And don’t bother keeping the receipt—we’re sure you’ll want to hang onto this one.

Beat the heat with the gospel shouts of the Blind Boys of Alabama! The five octegenarian singers talk about the deep faith that keeps the music going.  Plus the unique harmonies of Native American trio Ulali, and a tribute to the late zydeco accordionist Boozoo Chavis.

American Routes goes from Texas roadhouses to Zydeco dancehalls with two men known for their live performances, Delbert McClinton and Buckwheat Zydeco. Harmonica player, vocalist and songwriter Delbert McClinton has gone from backing up Jimmy Reed and Howlin’ Wolf in the 1960s to top-40 success. But he never stops delivering what his fans want—sweaty, country-tinged rhythm and blues shows. Stanley Dural, Jr., better known as Buckwheat Zydeco, grew up hearing traditional accordion from his father from the very beginning, but preferred soul, funk and R&B. Now he’s known for mixing them all together for high-energy shows across southern Louisiana and the world. All this plus great music from Lightnin’ Hopkins, Emmylou Harris, Fats Domino and more.