Lil Nas X Embraces Black Queer Sexuality — And Becomes An 'Industry Baby'
NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with New York Times writer Jazmine Hughes about the unique pop stardom Lil Nas X is creating for himself.
Music
Billie Eilish Can't Wait To See The Future
With lyrics poking at the ways young women are scrutinized and exploited, Happier than Ever finds Eilish in some dark corners — but the pop supernova tells NPR she's got lots to feel hopeful about.
Ravi Told George, They Told The World: The Birth Of The Celebrity Benefit Concert
50 years ago, on August 1, 1971, the Concert for Bangladesh, led by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar, raised funds — and awareness — for Bengali refugees. What's the legacy of this landmark event?
Pandemic Lessons: Elaine Welteroth And Jonathan Singletary Talk With Lara Downes
The creative couple, who married in 2020, thrive on gratitude, community and the new approaches they've taken in the wake of the pandemic.
Madonna, 'Open Your Heart (Extended Version)'
On a 35th anniversary edition of True Blue, a 10-minute version of "Open Your Heart" welcomes an intimate connection between the instrumental and Madonna's voice.
Billie Eilish, 'Happier Than Ever'
Billie Eilish released five singles in the long run-up to Happier Than Ever, but saved its best song for the album's drop date.
COVID Era Produces A New Crop Of Solo Records From Jazz Instrumentalists
J.D. Allen's Queen City and Jon Irabagon's Bird With Streams are two very different new albums by outstanding tenor saxophonists.
On The Road Again: Musicians Return To The Stage At Exit Zero
We take you to the Exit Zero Jazz Festival with three sets from: piano prodigy Matthew Whitaker; New Orleans vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa, and master conguero Pedrito Martinez.
Tobacco City, 'Never On My Mind'
Tobacco City's debut album out today — Tobacco City, USA — mixes cosmic country with psychedelic choogle, but "Never On My Mind" ... well, that's where the honky tonk meets the soul revue.
Shame: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert
The South London band, backed by a compendium of violins, horns and more, plays songs from its latest album, Drunk Tank Pink.