The history of hip-hop, told through bling
The extravagant jewelry worn by hip-hop artists has meaning beyond the shiny surfaces.
Music & Culture
Tiny Desk Premiere: Gary Bartz
The 83-year-old NEA Jazz Master turns the Tiny Desk into a place of musical worship.
It took decades and other careers before Icelandic musician recorded his songs
Icelandic musician Önnu Jónu Son released an album partly written during a period of loss and addiction, and partly while looking back on his recovery and search for happiness.
Vicky Farewell on her new album 'Give A Damn'
NPR's Ayesha Rascoe talks to Vicky Farewell about her new album "Give A Damn" and turning bedroom, bubble-gum pop into brutally honest reflections on relationships.
Uncovering the story of Sawney Freeman, who may have been America's first Black composer
Sawney Freeman may be America's first Black composer. He was likely enslaved in Connecticut, and his music has been performed there for the first time in two centuries.
Switzerland's Nemo wins Eurovision 2024 in a year of protests
The Swiss singer and rapper was one of two nonbinary artists in the finals at this year's event held in Malmo, Sweden. Meanwhile, protesters called for Israel's disqualification from the contest.
Podcast explores the changing music scene in Austin, Texas
We look at the latest season of the Pause/Play podcast, from KUT and KUTX Studios, which explores how global and local changes are impacting Austin's music ecosystem.
'Wait Wait' for May 11, 2024: With Not My Job guest Chappell Roan
With the release of her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Chappell Roan became a queer pop icon. Her hit songs include "Hot To Go!" but what does she know about to-go food?
'Mother' is DJ and musician Samantha Poulter's new house music album
NPR's Scott Simon asks DJ and musician Samantha Poulter, who performs as Logic1000, about her new album of house music. It's titled "Mother."
Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys is being placed under a legal conservatorship
A Los Angeles Superior Court judge approved the conservatorship Thursday, noting that Brian Wilson suffers from "a major cognitive disorder." Wilson has agreed to the conservatorship.