You can celebrate the arrival of 2013 with us from the Levin Music Performance studio at WFMT on December 31 over the air. We decided to present as diverse a group of artists as possible. Joining us will be Los Angeles based singer-songwriter and humorist James Lee Stanley, who has recorded over a score of albums, including tributes to the Rolling Stones and the Doors, as well as collaborating with Michael Smith and Thom Bishop among others. Midnight Special favorites Magpie, who are Greg Artzner and Terry Leonino, returning with their unique blend of original music, including topical songs, and songs of today's best socially conscious songwriters, along with hits from Tin Pan Alley. They are regulars in the Phil Ochs Song Nights tour and are two of the four voices performing When I'm Gone, the Phil Ochs song that closes The Midnight Special. Locally acclaimed, nationally recognized blues singer-songwriter and interpreter Eric Noden teams up with world famous harmonica player Joe Filisko for some high energy foot-stompin' blues, rags and hollers. Finally, one of Chicago's finest cabaret performers, Beckie Menzie teams up with fellow cabaret artist, writer and humorist Cheryl Coons for a trip through the great American songbook and far beyond, including some rollicking originals. Coons received a Joseph Jefferson Award for her work in theater.

The radio broadcast starts at 8 PM with your requests. At 10 PM we go to the studio for the live concert that runs until about 1:15 AM and includes our usual mayhem, Lagunitas beer, wine and champagne toast at midnight.

Our New Year's Eve celebration is underwritten in part by American Airlines.