After Thaw, Minnesota Orchestra Returns To Cuba
This week, the ensemble became the first professional U.S. orchestra since 1999 to play in Cuba — 86 years after its first visit to Havana.
Music
In HBO's 'Bessie,' Queen Latifah Stars As Empress Of The Blues
It took Queen Latifah more than 20 years to bring the life of pioneering blues singer Bessie Smith to the screen. "Inhabiting her has inhabited me," she says.
In 'Rhythm,' Bhi Bhiman's Music Isn't Limited By National Borders
Bhi Bhiman had an all-American childhood, but his songs have an international character. He talks with NPR's Scott Simon about his childhood, his politics and his new album, Rhythm & Reason.
B.B. King And The Majesty Of The Blues
The legendary blues guitarist and singer, who died on Thursday, was the most recognizable and accessible icon of a sound that was in flux.
B.B. King's Guitar Name, 'Lucille,' Came From A Near Death Experience
American blues great B.B. King died Thursday in Las Vegas at the age of 89. King played many guitars over the years, and all of them were named "Lucille."
B.B. King, Legendary Blues Guitarist, Dies At 89
The great bluesman was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and toured relentlessly his whole life, wringing peerless emotion out of every note he played.
How Does Trust Happen In Music?
Conductor Charles Hazlewood talks about the role of trust between conductor and orchestra, which he describes as a "miracle."
Country Hit Writer Chris Stapleton Breaks Out On His Own In 'Traveller'
The Nashville songwriter has written countless hits for other artists. Critic Ken Tucker says that Stapleton's debut solo album showcases a wide range of musical styles with a distinctive sound.
Shakey Graves, Lucinda Williams And Sturgill Simpson Lead Americana Awards Nominees
All three musicians picked up three nominations, including album and song of the year. The awards will be presented on Sept. 16 in Nashville.
'The In Crowd': An Audience-Fueled Jazz-Pop Crossover Hit
Fifty years ago in a Washington, DC nightclub, the Ramsey Lewis Trio recorded "The In Crowd," a rare jazz single that landed on the pop charts. Critic Kevin Whitehead says the fans were half the show.