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.
How The Boer War Helped Winston Churchill Become The 'Hero Of The Empire'
Author Candice Millard argues that Churchill's battlefield coverage and daring escape from capture while serving as a correspondent for a British newspaper were turning points in his life.
Deer Tick Demonstrates Its Ambition And Range On 2 New Albums
The Rhode Island quartet is back with two new albums, titled Deer Tick Vol. 1 and Deer Tick Vol. 2. Critic Ken Tucker says first is largely acoustic, while the second features a louder electric sound.
'Battle Of The Sexes' Revisits Billie Jean King's Historic Win Against Bobby Riggs
Emma Stone stars as King in a breezy new film that carries us back to '73, and the heyday of the women's lib movement. Critic John Powers says the message of Battle of the Sexes still resonates today.
Jazz Pianist Harold Mabern Is In Full Command On 'To Love And Be Loved'
Mabern has worked as a pianist for more than half a century. Now he brings brings his confident style and sense of musical history to his latest album, To Love And Be Loved.
Pioneer Billie Jean King Moved The Baseline For Women's Tennis
King's 1973 exhibition match with self-proclaimed male chauvinist Bobby Riggs is now the subject of the new film, Battle of the Sexes. The 20-time Wimbledon champ spoke to Fresh Air on Sept. 12, 2013.
'Trophy' Reveals The Convoluted Economics Of African Big Game Hunting
Shaul Schwarz's new documentary explores the complex relationship between hunters and conservationist. Critic David Edelstein praises the "tangled sympathies" Trophy elicits.
'Cuz' Examines The Tragic Life And Death Of A Young Black Man In LA
Danielle Allen's memoir centers on her cousin Michael, who was sentenced to a long prison term for carjacking when he was 15. Three years after his release, he was found shot to death in a parked car.