The Art Of The 'Clean Version'
When songs have profanity, sex or drug references removed for broadcast, it's a process known as clean editing — and it can get complicated. Priska Neely spoke with one of the masters of the form.
Music & Culture
'I've Never Found Myself Numb': Boots Feels His Way To Fame
The world met Jordy Asher in 2013, as an unknown producer and songwriter who had helped shape Beyoncé's smash album. This week, he unveils his own debut.
New And Old Sounds From Mexico's Festival Internacional Cervantino
World music DJ Betto Arcos returns from a major performing arts festival in Mexico with music from some of his favorite acts.
Meet The Man Behind The Ben Carson Rap
The Carson campaign recently dropped a rap ad aimed at young black voters. Aspiring Mogul, the rapper behind the track, explains his inspiration — and his reaction to harsh responses on social media.
Early Christmas Ad Melts Millions Of Hearts Online
Telling the story of a young girl's attempts to connect with an old man she spots living on the moon, a Christmas ad from British retailer John Lewis has sparked tears, views, and a bit of criticism.
Remembering Harold Arlen, The Mystery Man Behind 'Over The Rainbow'
Arlen had major hits, won an Oscar and was called "the most original of all of us" by none other than George Gershwin, but he never became a household name.
'Wild Thing': Making Hearts Sing For 50 Years
The iconic rock song "Wild Thing" was written in 15 minutes, 50 years ago, and has since been licensed more than 7,300 times. Chip Taylor talks about the song he wrote that holds a special place in his heart.
Will Colombia Honor A Beloved Musician Who Was Also A Convicted Killer?
Colombian views on violence against women are under scrutiny as lawmakers consider honoring a popular deceased folk musician — one who was convicted of murdering his girlfriend in 1997.
The Day Dylan Got It Right
"Like a Rolling Stone" is a classic today, but it flummoxed a young Bob Dylan in the studio. Newly released outtakes reveal where the song started and how it dramatically transformed.
The Sounds Of James Bond, From The Editors Who Created Them
Karen Baker Landers and Per Hallberg won the Oscar for their sound work on Skyfall. Now they're back with the new James Bond movie, Spectre. NPR's Becky Sullivan talks to the pair about just what a sound editor does.