WATCH: MerleFest In Five Minutes
MerleFest is an annual "traditional plus" music festival held in Wilkesboro, North Carolina on the campus of Wilkes Community College.
Arts
If 'Carmichael Show' Topics Feel Uncomfortable, That's Because They're Real
Jerrod Carmichael says that the complicated family debates on his NBC comedy series are inspired by real life. "I grew up in a household that's very argumentative ... in a very healthy way," he says.
3 Generations Of Trauma Haunt 'Ladivine'
Marie NDiaye's unflinching new novel handles heavyweight emotions — guilt, shame, grief, cruelty — with sharp-edged writing and clear-eyed courage. It's an intense read, but an engrossing one.
Legendary Musicians Share The Makings Of MerleFest
Over the years, MerleFest has become an annual homecoming for both music fans and the artists who perform there. Two of the musicians who return every year and who knew the Watsons well spoke with WFDD's David Ford about Doc, Merle, and the festival that bears his name.
Muslim Artists Struggle To Connect With American Audiences
NPR's Kelly McEvers speaks with McClatchy national correspondent Hannah Allam about how Muslim artists are frustrated over how Muslims are portrayed in American media.
'I Wish To Say' Project Sends Personal Messages To Presidential Candidates
One hundred volunteer typists working on old-fashioned manual typewriters will assemble in New York City to take down messages passersby want to send to presidential candidates. It's part of artist Sheryl Oring's "I Wish To Say" project.
'Nurse, Spy, Cook:' How Harriet Tubman Found Freedom Through Food
Tubman's role as a professional cook has often been overlooked. She self-funded many of her heroic raids to rescue slaves through an activity she enjoyed and excelled at: cooking.
Questlove On Prince, Doo-Wop And The Food Equivalent Of The 'Mona Lisa'
In his new book, somethingtofoodabout, The Roots' drummer discusses the artistry involved in creating a great meal. "I'm more obsessed with the journey ... than the destination," Questlove says.
The Mardi Gras Indian Of 'Lemonade'
In "Lemonade," Beyoncé's much-discussed visual album, a girl resplendent in white plumage appears. It's a nod to the pop star's New Orleans roots and loaded with the region's racial history.
Beyonce's 'Lemonade' Turns A Somali-Brit Poet Into A Global Star
Queen Bey reads some of Warsan Shire's writings about love and loss. The young poet also tells stories about refugees and immigrants from Africa, where she was born.