How Louis Armstrong became the first Black pop star
Author Ricky Riccardi says Armstrong's innovations as a trumpeter and vocalist helped set the entire soundtrack of the 20th century. His new book about Armstrong's early life is Stomp Off, Let's Go.
Once An Underground Currency, Bitcoin Emerges As 'A New Way To Track Information'
The digital currency's value has gone from zero to $120 billion in nine years. Digital Gold author Nathaniel Popper says major banks are looking into the possibilities of its decentralized network.
'Three Billboards' Is a Vigilante-Revenge Thriller That Goes Off The Rails
Frances McDormand is a woman seeking justice for her murdered daughter in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. David Edelstein calls the film "fascinating, then perplexing, then annoying."
Remembering Interdisciplinary Composer Muhal Richard Abrams
Critic Kevin Whitehead says Abrams, who died last week, was "steeped in jazz, but eager to take on a wider world." Abrams was a co-founder of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians.
Brazilian Pianist Nelson Freire Brings An Uncannily Delicate Touch To 'Brahms'
Freire plays tribute to the noted German composer on his new album. Music critic Lloyd Schwartz doesn't always love Brahms, but he loves this recording.
Michael Lewis: Many Trump Appointees Are Uninterested In The Agencies They Head Up
The Moneyball author is writing a series of articles for Vanity Fair about President Trump's picks to lead federal agencies — and the consequences of those appointments.
From Fire Hydrants To Rescue Work, Dogs Perceive The World Through Smell
Dogs can sniff out people, drugs, bombs, cancer and much more. In her book Being A Dog, Alexandra Horowitz explores the mysteries and mechanics of canine noses. Originally broadcast Oct. 4, 2016.
Netflix Adaptation Of Margaret Atwood's 'Alias Grace' Is Uncannily Relevant
Alias Grace tells the true story of an Irish immigrant who worked as a household maid in Canada in the 1850s and was later convicted of murder.
'Lady Bird' Soars With An Intimate Portrait Of Mother-Daughter Angst
The title character of Greta Gerwig's new comedy is a Sacramento high school senior who's in a love-hate relationship with her mother. Critic David Edelstein says Lady Bird is "packed with insight."
A Trio Of Veterans Embark On A Road Trip Together In 'Last Flag Flying'
Director Richard Linklater salutes the courage of our troops while casting a hard eye at the government machinery that sends them into battle. Justin Chang calls Last Flag Flying an elegiac comedy.