This week on the Earth Eclectic Radio Hour, host Laura Dedelow presents “Winter Lights,” a luminous journey through music that celebrates the season’s diverse traditions. Beginning with Meren King’s playful “Dancing in a Pagan Wonderland” and flowing through Jo-Willow’s evocative “When the Crow Calls,” the first set honors ancient Yuletide customs while embracing contemporary expressions of Earth-centered spirituality. The darkest moment arrives with Sun Ra Arkestra’s profound “Sea of Darkness / Darkness” before Eric Lumiere’s aptly titled “I See the Light” signals the turning point. Bill Summers’ “Umoja” introduces the first principle of Kwanzaa—unity—bridging us to our second set. After a brief pause, we return with Amy Kramer Hawks’ oceanic reimagining of a traditional carol, followed by The Chantress honoring the Holly King who rules winter’s domain. The journey continues with Nicola Conte’s soulful jazz expression “Into the Light of Love” and a second winter crow song from Oklahoma’s Sisteria. As Lea Morris invites us to join in celebration and the.divine.paradox? offers a progressive rock interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s sugar plum fairy, we conclude with Pharoah Sanders’ transcendent “Prince of Peace”—reminding us that across traditions, winter festivals ultimately celebrate the same miracle: light returning to a darkened world, hope rekindled in the human heart.

Listen on our site, Mixcloud, PRX — complete track list

Wishing you a happy solstice, wherever you are!

PS: If you want even more solstice music, check out our Earth Eclectic Extended mix.