In an exclusive C&I interview, Strait talks about the joys of making music with his son, up-and-coming songwriter Bubba Strait, and veteran Music Row tunesmiths Dean Dillon and Jim Lauderdale. And he admits that while he foresees a day when he will hang up his guitar and become a full-time rancher - that day is far off in the distance. "It's great to be able to do something you love for a living," Strait tells C&I. "And believe me, I'm loving it."

Elsewhere in the December issue, now on sale at newsstands everywhere, writer Wolf Schneider interviews Trevor Brazile, six-time winner of the National Finals Rodeo All-Around World Champion title, who's hoping to notch a seventh victory at December's NFR event in Las Vegas. Another rodeo veteran, Western Canadian icon Ian Tyson, talks with writer Jordan Rane about his enduring success as a celebrated Western Revival singer-songwriter. C&I contributor Joseph Marshall III takes readers on a guided trip to a dozen sites across the country held sacred by Native Americans. And husband-and-wife singer-songwriters Joey+Rory kick back for a "Life From" interview at Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame.

But wait, there's more: The December issue also offers C&I's annual Holiday Gift Guide, spotlighting an exciting array of Western-themed gifts ranging from boots and buckles to home furnishings and real estate. And just in time for seasonal entertaining, C&I provides recipes for three types of savory empanadas that will add flavor and flair to your holiday table.

Source: Cowboys & Indians