Why do we musicians use alter egos?
Musician Sturgill Simpson says he's releasing a new album under a new name: "Johnny Blue Skies." We look — and listen — to some of music's other notable alter egos, such as Ziggy Stardust.
Music & Culture
Meghan Trainor on new album 'Timeless' and 10 years of 'All About That Bass'
NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Meghan Trainor about her new album, "Timeless." The singer-songwriter is also celebrating the 10th anniversary of her breakout hit, "All About That Bass."
Tems remakes R&B in her image with ‘Born in the Wild’: 'I really want to feel it in my chest!'
The Nigerian singer-songwriter has become one of the most sought after voices in popular music. Her debut album processes the risks and epiphanies it took to get here.
Saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin on creating a mood and facing your fears
To celebrate Black Music Month, acclaimed American saxophonist and jazz musician Lakecia Benjamin joined NPR for a Tiny Desk Concert.
Tierra Whack: Tiny Desk Concert
The Philly rapper gave playful, grade school shenanigans in her Tiny Desk featuring a surprise guest.
The Thistle & Shamrock: Quarter Days
Explore the rhythms of days gone by when the agricultural year marked the passage of time.
T Bone Burnett tackles an old childhood nightmare on 'The Other Side'
The acclaimed producer's latest album is a country blues affair inspired by a sinister dream.
New Music Friday: The best albums out June 7
NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Hazel Cills shepherd you through the many huge albums out today, including new records by Kaytranada, Charli XCX and so much more.
Featured albums:
- Kaytranada, 'Timeless'
- Charli XCX, 'brat'
- Pedro the Lion, 'Santa Cruz'
Other notable albums:
- Tems, Born in the Wild
- Angelica Garcia, 'Gemelo'
- Alisa Amador, 'Multitudes'
- Peggy Gou, 'I Hear You'
- Marina Allen, 'Eight Pointed Star'
To see the entire list of June 7 releases and stream our New Music Friday playlists, visit nprmusic.org.
Featured albums:
- Kaytranada, 'Timeless'
- Charli XCX, 'brat'
- Pedro the Lion, 'Santa Cruz'
Other notable albums:
- Tems, Born in the Wild
- Angelica Garcia, 'Gemelo'
- Alisa Amador, 'Multitudes'
- Peggy Gou, 'I Hear You'
- Marina Allen, 'Eight Pointed Star'
To see the entire list of June 7 releases and stream our New Music Friday playlists, visit nprmusic.org.
As African pop crests again, women are leading the second wave
Released in a span of three months, the new albums by Ayra Starr, Tems and Tyla are not merely career-making for the artists, but ground-shifting for the pop music of the continent.