NPR Music's 25 Favorite Albums Of 2020 (So Far)
How can it be possible that we're only halfway through the year? Here are 25 albums from 2020's first six months that are worth holding onto for the next six, and beyond.
Music Lists
We Insist: A Century Of Black Music Against State Violence
These songs take on some of the ugliest stories in our history and reflect the commitment of Black musicians to telling the truth of how Black people have been wronged, and survived, and fought back.
A Different Kind Of Pride: Perspectives On 50 Years Of Celebration, Part 3
We asked writers in the LGBTQ+ community to reflect on the relationship between celebration, protest, music and LGBTQ+ activism. Raquel Gutiérrez shares music that showcases Pride's political power.
A Different Kind Of Pride: Perspectives On 50 Years Of Celebration, Part 1
This year, Pride feels a little different. We asked music writers in the LGBTQ+ community to reflect on the changing relationship between celebration, protest, music and LGBTQ+ activism.
How Queer Tastemakers, Movers And Shakers Shaped The Music Of New Orleans
No single lineage can contain New Orleans music. But one central thread is the legacy of queer performers and tastemakers — from Bobby Marchan to Big Freedia — who steered the sounds and the scenes.
Love In Abundance: A Guide To Women's Music
Women's music is music written by, for and about women (and, more often than not, women who love women). Our starter kit includes music by Cris Williamson, Ferron, Toshi Reagan, Ani DiFranco and more.
Queer As Punk: A Guide To LGBTQIA+ Punk
"Queer punk" might be redundant if making over-the-top statements at the top of your lungs isn't precisely what makes punk "punk" and queer "queer." Here's a guide to the genre's history and legacy.
A Not-At-All Exhaustive LGBTQIA+ Country Playlist
These music makers have wildly different relationships with genre and cultural conventions. They don't look or sound alike or share the same aims or aspirations. That's the point.
This Is How I Feel: A Playlist By Young Black Listeners
Music has always been a vital part of protest and social justice. We asked our young Black listeners: Is there one song that's helping you address your feelings right now?
KCSN's Byron Gonzalez Defines Latin Alternative
The Latin Alt program director Byron Gonzalez shares songs from a few of his favorite artists making music outside the Latin mainstream.