This week on eTown, we welcome acclaimed songwriter James McMurtry, praised by Rolling Stone as “one of America’s greatest living songwriters.” He plays songs from this new album, The Black Dog and The Wandering Boy out now on New West Records. The album features vivid characters, sharp storytelling and contributions from Sarah Jarosz, Charlie Sexton and more.

Also this week: Nashville-based Erin Rae, whose latest album Lighten Up blends baroque-pop and cosmic Americana. Erin’s music explores self-acceptance and emotional honesty with grace.

eTown host Nick Forster also speaks with Paul E. Scott, CEO of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM), a nonprofit providing affordable healthcare to thousands of working musicians in Austin. Paul shares how HAAM supports artists’ well-being through access, advocacy and community care.