World Cafe Next: Karl Blau
Hear two songs from the Pacific Northwest singer-songwriter's new album, produced by Tucker Martine.
Music
Remembering African Singer And Style Icon Papa Wemba
One of the biggest stars to emerge from contemporary Africa, the Congolese singer made a huge impact on international high fashion as well as music.
Before Diving Into The Raging Flood Of New Beyoncé Thinkpieces, Read This
Beyoncé did a thing over the weekend, which means there are a million thinkpieces on the Internet today — on blackness and feminism and celebrity — for you to wade through. But start here.
Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds: Tiny Desk Concert
The New York band's punchy horn section, bluesy vocals and uniquely transformative harmonica solos instantly demand attention.
Beyoncé Surprises The World Again With New Visual Album 'Lemonade'
Surprise has become a signature move for the superstar, who dropped her sixth studio album during an HBO special Saturday. It follows a sweeping narrative arc of rage to redemption.
Songs We Love: Nite Jewel, 'Kiss The Screen'
Ramona Gonzalez crafts a communal experience out of a moody song built for intimate, lone listening.
John Metcalfe Feat. Rosie Doonan, 'Wrapped'
The composer's new song and video deliver an emotional punch with simple musical beauty.
Beyoncé's 'Lemonade' Is Defiant In The Midst Of Upheaval
The story she's telling this time, that of a woman wronged, is universal, but the way she's delivered it is a crystal-clear representation of the black female experience.
Still Would Stand All Time: Notes On Prince
No black artist who came before him aggregated so many diverse people in the service of anti-normativity and perverse polymorphism; the world is a better and richer place for it.
How Minneapolis Is Mourning Its Purple Son, Prince
The musician's hometown is mourning with solemn vigils, music-filled scenes and plenty of questions about how the artist died.