Think all the glamour is in Hollywood? This week on American Routes we’re going to the movies. John Sayles, writer-director of such classic films as “Lonestar” and “Matewan” talks about how he uses music to evoke emotion. Quebequois director Andre Gladu shares his documentary vision and stories of following music along the Mississippi and French Louisiana. Plus composer Thomas Newman takes us behind the scenes of Altman’s “The Player,” Disney’s “Wall-E” and more.

In this Valentine’s special we explore the various types of love expressed in song—from puppy love to animal attraction, part-time love to enduring love, breaking up and making up and everything in between. We’re joined on our quest by three performers well acquainted with the genre: Randy Newman, author of love songs both ironic and authentic; Rev. Al Green, a man who has addressed love both sacred and secular throughout his career; and Joan Baez, who talks about her favorite love songs—some written for her. Plus, an irresistible mix of love songs including Fats Domino, Billie Holiday, Bob Dylan and more that you can’t help but fall for.