Music & Culture

Independent music venues have been among the hardest hit by the global pandemic, raising the possibility of them being forced to sell.

Financially Vulnerable, Independent Music Venues Worry Of Having To Sell

6:00am August 27, 2020

by Marissa R. Moss

Independent music venues continue to be among the businesses hardest hit by the global pandemic. The corporate behemoths of concert promotion, however, can weather the storm.

The Reminders perform at the Mishawaka Amphitheater in Fort Collins, Colo

Music & Culture

How Colorado's Outdoor Venues Are Reimagining Live Music

2:35pm August 26, 2020

by Robert Leja

Colorado is famous for its summer festivals and world class venues, like the Red Rocks Amphitheater. See how some have found creative ways to keep the music alive during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Music & Culture

Amidst The Pandemic, The New Music Out Of Nashville Never Stops

12:41pm August 26, 2020

by Ann Powers

World Cafe's Nashville correspondent, Ann Powers, talks about the state of Music City and five new releases that she's excited about.

Riley Gale, performing with Power Trip on Nov. 8, 2015 in Austin, Texas.

Music & Culture

Riley Gale, Fiery Singer Of Power Trip, Dead At 34

12:09pm August 26, 2020

by Lars Gotrich

The politically active Gale was beloved among his peers for his generosity, and by his fans for the sheer power of his performances.

From left: Randy Bewley, Curtis Crowe, Vanessa Briscoe Hay and Michael Lachowski. Over two albums and a handful of singles released from 1979-1983, Pylon's music roared with a danceable chaos.

Music & Culture

The Long Tail Of Pylon, According To Pylon

10:49am August 26, 2020

by Lars Gotrich

New bands still sound like Pylon and beloved bands still like the music better than their own. Ahead of a catalog reissue, its three remaining members discuss how it feels to last forever.

Billie Eilish plays a Tiny Desk (home) concert.

Music & Culture

Billie Eilish: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

10:00am August 26, 2020

by Stephen Thompson

Billie Eilish used some of her signature video magic to perform in front of the Tiny Desk from the comfort of her own home.

Electric Lady "was this colorful, vibrant space that encouraged you to use your imagination and and inspired new music," says Lee Foster. It's an atmosphere he continues to cultivate in the studios today.

Music & Culture

50 Years Later, Jimi Hendrix's Electric Lady Studios Is Still An Artistic Haven

9:12am August 26, 2020

On Aug. 26, 1970, Jimi Hendrix opened his legendary studios New York City. He died just three weeks later before he could see its success, decline and rebirth as a palace of hits.

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Music & Culture

Sotheby's Hosts Its First Hip-Hop Auction Next Month

5:56am August 26, 2020

Two of the biggest items include: Biggie Smalls signed crown from his "King of New York" photo shoot — his last ever. And 22 love letters written by Tupac Shakur to his childhood sweetheart.

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Music & Culture

Play It Foward: Lianne La Havas Expresses Her Gratitude For Nick Hakim

4:08pm August 25, 2020

NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with British singer-songwriter Lianne La Havas about her music and the artist she is thankful for, Nick Hakim.

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Music & Culture

Phoebe Bridgers' 'Punisher' Is An Album For The Moment

1:00pm August 25, 2020

Since its release, fans are sharing stories of personal connection to Bridgers' latest album, one that's made many feel less alone in a time of self-isolation.