He doesn't have the kind of sonorous voice associated with radio announcers. He's never been to broadcasting school. He doesn't even have a made-up DJ name. But Chris Thile, the host in waiting for "A Prairie Home Companion," has all the tools to succeed Garrison Keillor. Mandolin master Thile is smart, clever, versatile, funny, adventurous, hip, youngish (35), theatrical and quick (with both his tongue and fingers). Not only has he earned a MacArthur "genius grant" and four Grammys, but he commands such widespread musical respect that he can just call Paul Simon and get him to play live on the radio in St. Paul.

Best of Minnesota 2016

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