Music Lists

'Love For Sale': A History Of Pop Music That's As Personal As It Gets

7:57am October 15, 2016

NPR's Scott Simon talks to music critic David Hajdu about his new book, "Love For Sale," in which he chronicles the 100-plus year history of American pop music.

Bruno Mars has released the first single, "24K Magic," from his upcoming album of the same name.

Music & Culture

10 Songs For An Anxious Moment: A Fall Pop Playlist

1:54pm October 13, 2016

by Ann Powers

As summer turns to fall, the boldfaced names returning to the world of pop might not be offering explicitly political songs, but each makes a big statement in its own way.

Frank Sinatra and then-presidential candidate John F. Kennedy in February 1960.

Music & Culture

The Long, Strange History Of Campaign Endorsement Songs

1:31pm September 26, 2016

From "Nixon's The One" To "El Corrido de Hillary Clinton," an odd subgenre of music raises its head every four years: the endorsement song. It's part commercial jingle, part aspirational anthem.

Music & Culture

Heavy Rotation: 10 Songs Public Radio Can't Stop Playing

7:49am September 24, 2016

Hear new songs by Amanda Shires, The Minders, Izo FitzRoy and more in a mix curated by public-radio hosts across the country.

Music & Culture

World Cafe's 10 Songs For Sweater Weather

2:55pm September 22, 2016

by Bruce Warren

Feel the autumnal vibes with a playlist that'll get you in the mood for the changing seasons.

"Jack [Rose] transcended the shadow of [John] Fahey, and I think that's really difficult to do," Steve Gunn says. "It was undeniable when he played — people paid attention."

Music & Culture

'A Real Little Taste Of Heaven': Visionary Guitarist Jack Rose In 11 Songs

9:40am September 20, 2016

by Laura Snapes

To celebrate new reissues of his work, friends, fans and peers share favorite songs and memories of the musician whose influence on American Primitive Guitar has grown to monumental heights.

Chicago house icon Larry Heard has made some of the most memorable dance tracks of the past 30 years.

Music & Culture

Classic Dose: Larry Heard

10:41am September 16, 2016

by Andy Beta

Larry Heard, the producer behind Kanye West's "Fade," changed the course of dance music 30 years ago with a handful of singles. Andy Beta speaks to the house legend about his unexpected renaissance.

Music & Culture

Heavy Rotation: 10 Songs Public Radio Can't Stop Playing

2:51pm August 23, 2016

Let a panel of 10 public-radio hosts recommend you some new music, including songs by Warpaint and Noname, plus a premiere from Tom Brosseau.

Music & Culture

Alt.Latino Shares New Favorites

8:39am August 14, 2016

Felix Contreras and Jasmine Garsd of NPR's Alt-Latino join NPR's Rachel Martin to talk about an album that Contreras already thinks is his favorite of the year, as well as some other great tracks.

Music & Culture

5 Musicians Pick Their Favorite Herbie Hancock Recordings

4:19pm August 09, 2016

by Simon Rentner

He's never been afraid to tap the current musical zeitgeist — and has reached new listeners each time. Ron Carter, Lionel Loueke, Flying Lotus and others share tracks by their friend.