Cuba: While The Politicians Argued, The Musicians Jammed
The musical exchange between the United States and Cuba goes back to the 19th century. Thankfully, the two countries' political standoff never filtered down to musicians.
Music
R. Kelly Pleads Not Guilty To Latest Charges
At an arraignment in Cook County, Ill. court on Thursday morning, the embattled R&B singer entered a not guilty plea on 11 felony charges.
First Listen: Bill Callahan, 'Shepherd In A Sheepskin Vest'
On his first album in six years, Bill Callahan ruminates on domesticity, devotion and mortality in his conversational baritone.
First Listen: Calexico And Iron & Wine, 'Years To Burn'
Sam Beam and Calexico's first album-length collaboration since 2005 feels most of all like the work of a complete, cohesive band — a group of old friends who've gathered to sing in a single voice.
Norah Jones Turns Fame Into Freedom
For her latest release, Begin Again, Jones ditched the album format in favor of a collection of seven singles that would allow her to sprawl out musically.
First Listen: John Luther Adams, 'Become Desert'
The composer's musical evocation of the desert is an expansive journey in symphonic stillness, and a sequel to his Pulitzer-winning Become Ocean.
Tomberlin: Tiny Desk Concert
Tomberlin is the daughter of a Baptist pastor, grew up singing in the church and, since her teens, has questioned her own beliefs in God and faith. Her songs are delicate and vulnerable.
First Listen: Kate Tempest, 'The Book Of Traps And Lessons'
The London rapper, poet and spoken word artist rips your heart out, offers an assessment, and then returns it with the tools to determine what needs to be done with it.
Make Room For Raveena
On her debut album, Lucid, the 25-year-old singer mashes up contemporary R&B with traditions from the South Asian diaspora. "I just think there's room for more stories."
The Thistle & Shamrock: The Scottish Traditional Music Hall Of Fame
Host Fiona Ritchie is joined by the well-loved singer of Scottish traditional and contemporary songs, Christine Kydd.