Hard To Categorize: Joseph C. Phillips' Album 'Changing Same' Is Out Tuesday
Joseph C. Phillips Jr. creates music that sounds classical, funky and sometimes cinematic. He deconstructs his compositions for NPR's Rachel Martin.
Music & Culture
10 Years After Katrina, New Orleans' Brass Bands March On
One of New Orleans' signature traditions is the second line — the weekly brass band parades. But after Hurricane Katrina, a lot of people worried the tradition would become history.
Drum Fill Friday, With Shaun Fleming Of Foxygen And Diane Coffee
Our special guest picks the fills. You match them to the right song. Simple as that.
'8 CDs For A Penny' Company Files For Bankruptcy
The parent company of Columbia House, the music-subscription king of the '80s and '90s, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Two NPR music editors remember the good and the bad.
A Witness To History: Guest DJ Arturo O'Farrill
Alt.Latino talks to a bandleader with deep roots in Cuban music and a role in current events. O'Farrill just released a new album called Cuba: The Conversation Continues.
A Rational Conversation: Does Anybody Even Have Time For An 80-Minute Album?
In a musical environment that prizes economy and the listener's ability to shuffle, skip and create playlists, is there still a place for ambitious, sprawling albums meant to be consumed all at once?
Stop The Foreign Music! African Pop Stars Ask For Government Help
Musicians in Kenya want a law forcing radio stations to play 70 percent local music. Nigeria and South Africa have similar rules. But this kind of protectionism could backfire.
Syrian Rockers, Fleeing War, Find Safety And New Fans In Beirut
Members of a Syrian indie rock band escaped their country's bloodshed and have become a mainstay of Beirut's music scene. "In spite of all the deaths," the band sings, "you are still alive."
Cumberland Caverns: A Subterranean Concert Venue In Tennessee
Ever wanted to see Jason Isbell, Shovels & Rope or Billy Joe Shaver 333 feet underground? You'll have to take a hike.
'Is It Rolling, Bob?': Remembering Producer Bob Johnston
Producing albums for Johnny Cash, Leonard Cohen and most crucially, Bob Dylan, Johnston helped give shape, heft and durability to some of the most transformative music of the past five decades.