A heavy winter snowstorm in Washington prompted a flurry of songs about the chilly season and snow in particular. We pause to play tiny violins for the imprisoned insurrectionist on the one-year anniversary of their treason (“In the Jailhouse Now,” “Jailhouse Tears”). The New Year’s Day release of 400,000 recordings before 1923 into the public domain inspired a set of important, nearly century-old sides from early black recording artists, the first country record, and the tune that launched Jolson’s career. A celebration of Elvis Presley’s impending 87th birthday, and the 75th anniversary of David Bowie’s birth — both coming Saturday. And closed with Fela Kuti. Listen to the whole show here. Here’s what I played on the radio today:
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