Songwriter James McMurtry is highly admired by listeners and peers alike for his astute observations and ability to develop characters while painting scenery with just a few, well-chosen words. This week's Song of the Week is McMurtry's "State of the Union," which depicts a family's inner-conflicts, long-standing grudges and stubborn optimism.
"We're all in the family/The Cursed and the Blessed/It's the State of the Union I guess."
You'll hear the rest of James McMurtry's set, as well as performances from Inara George, The Low Anthem and John Moreland, on this week's broadcast. Find out where you can listen on a station in your area here, and be sure to subscribe to the podcast below so you never miss a song.
UPDATE: You can hear McMurtry's entire set, including songs not heard on the radio broadcast, at NPR Music. Scroll down to listen.
