Enjoy the 44th season of ‘Austin City Limits’

The longest running music program in television history is back for its 44th season Saturday nights at 11 p.m. beginning Oct. 6 on Arizona PBS.

The “Austin City Limits” concert series on PBS provides you with a front-row seat that showcases stars, innovators and highly-anticipated musical debuts from all genres. All shows are taped live at the Moody Theater in downtown Austin.

This season features — among many — the amazing St. Vincent, in a visually and sonically stunning hour, and songwriting legend John Prine, who showcases his acclaimed new release and gems from his catalogue in this, his eighth ACL appearance.

Other artists returning to ACL include singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, who delivers a crowd-pleasing performance in a radiant hour; worldwide superstar Sam Smith who brings along mega-hits and some new songs from his sophomore release; and boundary-pushing country artist Kacey Musgraves, who shines while sharing the stories behind her songs.

“Austin City Limits” continues its legacy of spotlighting music’s finest — including debut appearances from Grammy-winning R&B star Miguel alongside the 2018 Grammy Awards Best New Artist Alessia Cara — along with standout singer-songwriters like soul/R&B singer Anderson East and roots rockers Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real.

“The key to ACL’s marathon success story is our commitment to the best, most original music being created,” says longtime ACL executive producer Terry Lickona. “No matter what gender, genre, style or era, we have always delivered a remarkable mix of compelling, heartfelt and groundbreaking performers.”

Below are the first six performances for season 44:

Oct. 6:  St. Vincent

Oct. 13:  John Prine

Oct. 20:  Sam Smith / Anderson East

Oct. 27:  Brandi Carlile

Nov. 3:  Miguel / Alessia Cara

Nov. 10:  Kacey Musgraves / Lukas Nelson​ & Promise of the Real

Nov. 17:  Janelle Monae

Dec. 15: Khalid / Mac DeMarco

Dec. 31 (9:30 p.m.): Celebrate the 2018 ACL Hall of Fame with host Chris Isaak as Ray Charles, Marcia Bell and Los Lobos are inducted. Performers include Norah Jones, Robert Randolph, Gary Clark Jr. and more.

Jan. 5: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Feb. 9: Americana 17th Annual Honors:  Enjoy this annual ACL tradition featuring performances by Rosanne Cash, John Prine, Brandi Carlile, Buddy Guy, Jason Isbell, kd lang and more.

Full episodes are made available online for a limited time immediately following the initial broadcast, along with past performances.