Songs We Love: The Higher Up, 'Cigarettes (Feat. Jannel McLean)'
MC Mark Scott uses his nicotine addiction as a springboard to talk about anxiety, depression and an intensifying existential crisis.
Music & Culture
These 250-Plus Violins Are About To Be Owned By The U.S. Government
American-made violins are often regarded as inferior to European ones, but guitarist David Bromberg knows their value. So does the Library of Congress, which is acquiring his impressive collection.
Kanye West May Branch Out Into Furniture Design
The rapper tells the BBC that he would like to design furniture. In fact, he has a specific notion: He wants to team up with IKEA. He'd like to design a minimalist set for college dorms.
On His New Album, Will Downing Pays Tribute To Mothers Of Soul
The R&B singer speaks with guest host Ray Suarez about the female artists who inspired his latest album and how he made their songs his own.
Young The Giant Touches On Immigrant Background In 'Home Of The Strange'
NPR's Ailsa Chang talks with Sameer Gadhia of the Southern California band Young The Giant about the band's immigrant history ,and what they wanted to say about American identity in their new album.
How Can We Stop Sexual Assault At Music Festivals? One Group Says, Start By Educating
NPR's Ailsa Chang talks to David Huggins, the domestic abuse coordinator of the Isle of Wight Council in the U.K., about efforts to stop sexual violence at music festivals.
Pump Up The Jams: What's Team USA Listening To?
What kind of music gets Olympic athletes pumped up when they're working out? Taekwondo competitor Paige McPherson talks about what gets her going.
A Rough Guide To Brazilian Music
During the Olympics, the world will likely be hearing a lot more Brazilian music. Betto Arcos, host of the podcast Cosmic Barrio, gives an introduction to some of Brazil's musical traditions.
A Parting Gift — With Legs — For Marin Alsop At The Cabrillo Festival
After 25 years directing the contemporary music festival in California, Marin Alsop bids farewell with Lola Montez Does the Spider Dance, a new piece composed for her by John Adams.
25 Years Marks The Final Season At Cabrillo Festival For Contemporary Music
It's the 25th and last season at the Cabrillo Festival for Contemporary Music for Marin Alsop, and composer John Adams has written a piece in her honor. NPR's Scott Simon reminisces with the Maestra.