New season of Austin City Limits begins with legendary kick-off
After unlocking much of its series library as a gift to music fans missing the thrill of live performances, Austin City Limits has announced its 46th season will begin this fall. These brand new episodes will air on MontanaPBS as the COVID-induced live music moratorium rages on.
For its season opener, enjoy The Very Best of John Prine on Saturday, October 3rd. The requiem showcases Prine’s signature wit and wisdom, detailing the stories behind the songs and includes a never-before-aired 1987 performance of his classic “Sam Stone.” Prine’s singular talent was revered by generations of songwriters and the retrospective will feature a heartfelt introduction recorded by Americana star Jason Isbell. The episode airs at 10:10pm.
English country soul artist Yola follows on Saturday, October 10th. She will showcase the Grammy-nominated album Walk Through Fire in her debut appearance. The episode airs at 11pm.
Experience Stevie Ray Vaughan: A Retrospective on October 17th. The hour-long special highlights the legendary bluesman’s signature performances on ACL in 1983 and 1989 featuring back-to-back classics including “Texas Flood,” “Voodoo Child” and “Crossfire” from the Austin legend and his band Double Trouble. The episode airs at 10pm.
Also stopping by ACL for the first time, singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright is set for October 24th. Backed by members of North Texas bands Midlake and the Texas Gentleman, he’ll perform career highlights alongside selections from Unfollow the Rules, his first new pop album since 2012. The episode airs at 10:36pm.
And on All Hallow’s Eve, October 31st, ACL presents 50 Years of Asleep at the Wheel: A Retrospective. Take a look at the band’s evolution from the 1970s to the present via highlights from their many show appearances. For 50 years, founder Ray Benson & Co. have been the chief practitioners, conspirators and caretakers of Western swing, carrying the genre’s traditions well into the 21st century, reaching both their contemporaries and inspiring a new generation of artists. The episode airs at 10:18pm.
Please note: check MontanaPBS listings in the case of schedule changes. Air dates and times subject to change.
The longest-running music series in American television history, Austin City Limits showcases popular music legends and innovators from every genre. In addition to being honored by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a rock n’ roll landmark, ACL is the only television program to ever receive the National Medal of Arts, the nation’s highest award for artistic excellence. A spinoff event, the annual Austin City Limits Festival has become a favorite for live music fans around the country. Learn more about the landmark series at www.acltv.com. •