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Although Steve Earle’s debut novel takes inspiration from the life – and death – of country singer Hank Williams, much of the story comes from his own personal experience as well. We’ll speak with the singer-songwriter(-actor-author) about his recent book and album, both titled “I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive.” Plus, we’ll hear a live solo performance.

Steve Earle often tackles politics and personal demons in his songs, but his new album pays tribute to his mentor: the influential singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt. Earle joins us to talk about a friendship that began with heckling at a nightclub -- and endured after Van Zandt’s death. Plus, Earle ...

Musician Steve Earle gives us his take on this historic moment. Also: Performers Gabriela Montero and Anthony McGill talk about getting the call to play John Williams' piece for the inauguration. Plus: Anne Midgette gives us a review of the inauguration parade performances.

Steve Earle casts a critical eye on the political scene, in a song from his record El Corazon.

The country rocker tells Kurt about how his move from Nashville to New York City inspired his new album, Washington Square Serenade. He also talks about his role on HBO’s The Wire: "a redneck recovering addict, so it required no acting."

Steve Earle performs this song about leaving his adopted home of Nashville with no regrets.

Steve Earle's wife and musical collaborator, Allison Moorer, joins Earle on this love song to their new hometown.

Allison and Steve perform their duet from Washington Square Serenade.

We've touched on a couple of hot-button topics; now, Grammy-winning musician and actor Steve Earle helps tie up the loose ends with a batch of miscellaneous quiz questions.

Markos Moulitsas Zuniga, Daily Kos blogger and author of Taking On the System: Rules for Radical Change in a Digital Era, and Susan Page, Washington bureau chief for USA Today, wrap up the week's events.

Then
Brooke Gladstone, host of WNYC's On The Media, ...

Allison Moorer and Steve Earle perform their duet from Washington Square Serenade.

Steve Earle's wife and musical collaborator, Allison Moorer, joins Earle on this love song to their new hometown.

Steve Earle performs this song about leaving his adopted home of Nashville with no regrets.

Country rocker Steve Earle tells Kurt about how his move from Nashville to New York City inspired his new album, Washington Square Serenade. He also talks about his role on HBO’s The Wire: "a redneck recovering addict, so it required no acting."

Steve Earle casts a critical eye on the political scene, in a song from his record El Corazon.

Singer-songwriter and activist Steve Earle has made several albums of in-your-face songs about the Bush administration and other political issues. But on his latest, "Washington Square Serenade," he's less the political provocateur than a sociological observer. He explains why.