ENCOUNTER CULTURE PODCAST
Host, Emily Withnall
Emily Withnall is the editor of El Palacio Magazine, a New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs publication dedicated to the art, history, and culture of the Southwest. On her entertaining PodCast Encounter Culture, she shares conversations with a diverse array of insightful and entertaining guests. Her interviews dive deeply into the rich stories that illuminate New Mexico’s multifaceted cultural life. Emily was born in Taos and raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Today, she lives in Santa Fe.
Listen in. // podcast.nmculture.org/
MOZART GABRIEL
Taos Pueblo New Age Rock
Mozart Gabriel Abeyta, a talented musician and singer-songwriter from Taos Pueblo, blends his rich Native American heritage with contemporary sounds. Growing up amidst the vibrant cultural traditions of Taos Pueblo, Abeyta was deeply influenced by Indigenous music and storytelling. He skillfully incorporates traditional instruments and themes into his modern compositions, creating a unique and soulful fusion. Abeyta’s music spans genres, from folk to punk rock, and reflects the commitment to preserving his cultural roots, all while appealing to a broad audience—like with the track “Barcelona,” which blends upbeat lyrics, catchy pop melodies, and fast-paced punk rock. His work not only entertains but educates listeners about the rich history and enduring spirit of the Taos Pueblo community, fostering a connection between generations and social backgrounds.
Rock on. // mozartgabriel.com
50 Years of Wildfire
Michael Martin Murphey
Released in 1975 as part of his album Blue Sky – Night Thunder, Michael Martin Murphey’s iconic song Wildfire became an instant classic, blending folk, country, and soft rock influences. With its vivid imagery of a ghostly horse and lost love, Wildfire resonated deeply with audiences, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a permanent place in American musical history. Murphey’s evocative lyrics and soulful delivery brought an ethereal quality to the ballad, making it one of the most enduring songs of its era. Over the decades, Wildfire has been covered, referenced in pop culture, and cherished by fans old and new. As the song turns 50 this year, it remains a poignant testament to the power of storytelling in music, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come. Murphey still performs live each summer from his ranch in Red River, New Mexico. Book tickets for his Rockin’ 3M Chuckwagon Show.
Go wild. // michaelmartinmurphey.com
