This week, eTown is visited by the Blues. From Texas comes Grammy award winner, Ruthie Foster, who brings her seasoned song-craft and soulful vocals. And from Alabama comes Early James with his distinct vocalization and energetic guitar playing. Also, Nick has a chat with former Colorado Senator Tim Wirth to discuss the United Nations and its contributions and importance in world politics.

A storied path defines Ruthie Foster, with a sound shaped by a Texas upbringing. After early stints with the Navy band Pride and within New York’s songwriting circles, she chose an independent path that led to a remarkable run of acclaimed albums and five Grammy nominations. Her latest release, Mileage, won the 2025 Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album, marking a milestone for both Ruthie and Sun Records.

From Alabama comes Early James, a songwriter whose raw, expressive voice sits comfortably between folk, blues and noir-tinged Americana. His new album, Medium Raw, produced by Dan Auerbach, captures his gift for vivid storytelling and emotional grit. The record’s lived in sound showcases James at his most compelling. The New York Times described his sound as “the missing link between Townes Van Zandt and Tom Waits.”

Longtime public servant Senator Tim Wirth is known for early leadership on climate policy and global cooperation. After two decades in Congress and the Senate, he became the first Undersecretary for Global Affairs at the State Department before leading the United Nations Foundation for fifteen years, advancing work on climate, refugees and international development.