Soundstage Season 7, Episode 1: Counting Crows

Faith Hill: Joy to the World

Idina Menzel

Idina Menzel reached superstardom on Broadway in two career-defining roles—her Tony Award winning performance in the musical blockbuster "Wicked" and in the revolutionary "Rent." Idina’s debut album, I Stand is a powerful collection of new songs. With Idina’s voice and the talent of legendary Grammy winning producer Glen Ballard, the final outcome is an album filled with pop tunes and heartfelt ballads—intimate yet universal stories of life, its challenges, relationships and of course - the subject of love.

Soundstage: B.B. King

BB King

At age 83, B.B. King is still light on his feet, singing and playing the blues with relentless passion. Time has no apparent effect on B.B., other than to make him more popular, more cherished, and more relevant than ever. For more than half a century, Riley B. King - better known as B.B. King - has defined the blues for a worldwide audience. Since he started recording in the 1940s, he has released over fifty albums, many of them classics. He was born September 16, 1925, on a plantation in Itta Bena, Mississippi, near Indianola. In his youth, he played on street corners for dimes, and would sometimes play in as many as four towns a night. In 1947, he hitchhiked to Memphis, TN, to pursue his music career.

Umphrey's McGee

Legendary on the jam band circuit, Chicago-based Umphrey’s McGee has perfected the art of progressive improvisation. Swirling guitars and innovative multi-faceted arrangements keep fans on their toes. With power and finesse, this sextet brings jamming to a new level during this episode of Soundstage. A flair for spontaneity, dazzling musicianship, and an impressive live presence make Umphrey’s McGee a must-see as they perform “Higgins,” "Morning Song," and many others.

Seal

Seal’s one-of-a-kind soaring, husky baritone is perfect for any genre. He’s delighted fans and earned critical acclaim while staying true to classic, honest songwriting in his remarkable two-decade career. And now, he’s done it again with the release of his exceptional sixth studio album Soul. Together with legendary music producer David Foster, Seal adds his signature touch to some of the best soul songs ever created.

Jackson Browne

Rock’s poet laureate Jackson Browne delivers a remarkable performance featuring tracks from his latest recording, Time the Conqueror, as well as hits from his previous 11 studio albums. For more than three decades, Browne has set the standard for singer/songwriters, consistently producing heartfelt, personal lyrics while weaving-in a level of social consciousness which personifies his music. His performance on Soundstage exemplifies this reputation. Browne shines on recent tracks “Time the Conqueror” and “Live Nude Cabaret,” but also nails hits from his earlier repertoire like “Doctor My Eyes” and “Boulevard.”

OneRepublic

Grammy-nominated OneRepublic displays boundless energy throughout this episode of Soundstage while offering up rousing performances of hit singles “Apologize,” “Stop and Stare,” “Say (All I Need)” and “Mercy.” Catch a perfect blend of pop and rock on other featured tracks from their debut CD Dreaming Out Loud, along with a fantastic version of Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy.”

Sugarland

Jennifer Nettles’ voice can hold its own in any setting, but exceeds expectations alongside partner Kristian Bush’s mandolin strumming at the Grainger Studio. During this sensational hour, Sugarland presents a versatile set that gains momentum with each song. “Joey” is heartbreakingly sincere, “Everyday America” reveals strong, twangy vocals while broken-down acoustics give “Stay” a more traditional country sound. Their forte is to effortlessly transition from energetic pop songs to heartfelt, soulful ballads without skipping a beat. The dynamic duo also present older classics like “Baby Girl” and even venture into covers of R.E.M to pay homage to shared Atlanta roots during their set.

Death Cab for Cutie

Death Cab for Cutie performs songs from their new EP The Open Door, 2008 studio album Narrow Stairs and highlights from previous releases.

Billy Idol

Rock icon Billy Idol hits the stage to belt out his classic hits, including Rebel Yell, Dancing With Myself and White Wedding.

Fall Out Boy

Josh Groban, An Evening In New York City

In this Soundstage special event, Josh Groban performs favorites from his best-selling albums in an intimate theatre setting. Taped at Rose Hall at the "Jazz at Lincoln Center" in New York City, this stunning performance includes "Alla Luce del Sole", "You Are Loved (Don't Give Up)", and “February Song”. Special guest appearances by acclaimed jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, trumpeter Chris Botti and violinist Lucia Micarelli.

Michael McDonald - This Christmas