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This is American Routes from New Orleans, a city of music and songs, many of which have been written about it, often by outsiders. “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans"–music by John Turner Layton and lyrics from Henry Creamer–was published in 1922. “Way Down Yonder” was advertised as "A Southern Song, without A Mammy, A Mule, Or A Moon.” That was a rightful dig at some of the Tin Pan Alley clichés of the day. “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans" has been performed by many: Benny Goodman, the Andrews Sisters, Freddy Cannon, Jan and Dean, and Dean Martin. And now let’s go “Way Down Yonder” and beyond, starting with a fresh version of the old song from New Orleans Jazz Vipers on American Routes.

Growing up in East Texas, Lyle Lovett learned to do chores on the family farm, milking cows and taking care of the horses near the town of Klein. These are things that he still often does today when not on tour. Music, not farming, turned out to be Lyle’s calling, and storytelling songs: his trademark. Today, Lyle Lovett can be found in front of his Large Band spinning some tall Texas tales. You may have even seen him at the movies, acting in Robert Altman films. When I talked to Lyle, he told a story about traveling with his grandma.

Today on Louisiana Considered, we hear about a new opera production telling the story of a French heroine — and honoree of a Mardi Gras parade — Joan of Arc. We also speak with a La. native making her debut with the new Women’s Professional Baseball League.

Each December 24th, along the Mississippi River above New Orleans, families gather around massive bonfires–some shaped as log cabins or animals–to light the way for Santa Claus or Papa Noel. It’s a holiday tradition that goes back to colonial times along what is now called the Côte des Allemands, the German Coast. I caught up with CJ and his young son CJ Jr. who were tending to a big bonfire on the levee in Lutcher, LA.

This is American Routes from New Orleans, a city of music and songs, many of which have been written about it, often by outsiders. “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans"–music by John Turner Layton and lyrics from Henry Creamer–was published in 1922. “Way Down Yonder” was advertised as "A Southern Song, without A Mammy, A Mule, Or A Moon.” That was a rightful dig at some of the Tin Pan Alley clichés of the day. “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans" has been performed by many: Benny Goodman, the Andrews Sisters, Freddy Cannon, Jan and Dean, and Dean Martin. And now let’s go “Way Down Yonder” and beyond, starting with a fresh version of the old song from New Orleans Jazz Vipers on American Routes.

We celebrate the cultural minglings in New Orleans with a visit to the 2019 French Quarter Festival. This week, we’ll hear from Irma Thomas, the late Ellis Marsalis, the Preservation Hall Brass Band, Don Vappie and Evan Christopher, Bruce Daigrepont, Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony, the New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars and Dejan’s Olympia Brass Band.

In a city known for culinary excellence, Brennan's Restaurant stands out as a cornerstone of New Orleans cuisine. Founded in 1946 by Owen Brennan, the restaurant was elevated to international fame by his sister, the visionary Ella Brennan. Today, it's operated by Ralph Brennan, who continues the family legacy. On this week's show, we celebrate 80 years of Brennan's in the Big Easy.

Today on Louisiana Considered, we’ll find out what Donaldsonville area residents think about the new Hyundai steel plant. We also get an update on the Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience in New Orleans, and hear the latest on teacher stipends.

Israel has unleashed repeated military offensives in the Gaza Strip but has never permanently suppressed Palestinian rocket fire. We look at what is, and isn't, different this time.

NPR's Scott Detrow talks with Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, a Democrat, about the questions that Congress is launching about the Secret Service security that allowed a direct line of fire at Trump.