Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, Dec. 30, 2024:
“Austin City Limits” celebrates 50 years on PBS
Fifty years ago, a performance by Willie Nelson was filmed for what would become “Austin City Limits,” the longest-running show of its kind. The series, under producer Terry Lickona, would later define Austin’s eclectic music scene, showcasing a mix of genres and talent before they made it big. Lickona joins the Standard with more.
What ‘Cowboy Carter’ says about Blackness, Beyoncé and country music
Beyoncé’s venture into country music with “Cowboy Carter” has ignited widespread reactions, from fervent fandom to critical analysis. As a Texan, Beyoncé’s exploration of country music has sparked conversations about genre stereotypes and cultural boundaries.
Earlier this year, Taylor Crumpton explored Beyoncé’s defiance of country’s stereotypes for Time magazine. The Dallas-based writer joined the Standard for a conversation.
Bayonne’s beat-driven 2023 LP gets an orchestrated re-working
In 2023 Roger Sellers released his third album as Bayonne: “Temporary Time,” so gently intoxicating that one review described its effervescent effects as “like a glass of champagne, just right.”
In March, the album received a new treatment: a collaboration between Sellers and composer/producer Nathaniel Earl titled “Temporary Time (Orchestrated).” They joined the show for a musically rich chat.
The Jesus Lizard returns with new album and tour
Since forming in Austin in 1987, the Jesus Lizard has been known for its shuddering rhythm section, stinging guitars and the ominous voice of frontman David Yow. Now, after a hiatus and years of sporadic reunions, the band is back with “Rack,” its first album in 26 years.
Frontman David Yow joins the Standard to talk about the influential rockers’ past and present.
This week in Texas music history
This week in Texas music history, an influential Texas music hall closes its doors.
Remembering songwriter, actor and outlaw legend Kris Kristofferson
When Kris Kristofferson passed away in September at 88, fans mourned not just a legendary songwriter, but an iconic figure in country music’s outlaw generation and a prolific actor with nearly 50 films to his name.
Though born in Brownsville, Kristofferson spent much of his life away from the Lone Star State. Yet his Texas roots always shone through, especially alongside fellow Highwaymen like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. Longtime Texas Monthly senior editor John Spong joins the Standard with more.
