How K-pop took over the world — as told by one fan who rode the wave
In a new podcast, Vivian Yoon dissects her personal stake in K-pop, and how her obscure childhood passion has evolved into a billion-dollar industry.
Music & Culture
Bon Iver wasn't born in a vacuum — it took an 'Epoch' to form
DeYarmond Edison's Epoch revels in the early alchemic triumphs of Bon Iver and Megafaun members. But the box set also reminds us that no moment of creative inspiration takes place spontaneously.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: Run-D.M.C.'s Darryl McDaniels
McDaniels co-founded Run-D.M.C., the first rap group to have their videos played on MTV, to earn a platinum record and to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. Originally broadcast in 1997.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: LL Cool J
LL Cool J made his recording debut in 1984 when he was 16. He's then, since won two Grammys, had several platinum recordings and starred in NCIS: Los Angeles. Originally broadcast in 1997.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: Chic guitarist Nile Rodgers
Rodgers' "Good Times" guitar groove was later sampled in the Sugar Hill Gang's 1979 hit "Rapper's Delight," widely considered the first crossover hip-hop song. Originally broadcast in 1996.
Remembering classical music commentator Miles Hoffman who died at 71
Miles Hoffman, who died earlier this month, had an infectious love of classical music. He will be remembered for taking the starch out of the seemingly stiff world of classical music.
Noname's 'Sundial' pursues a hip-hop revolution
The Chicago rapper and poet is among the greatest lyricists of her generation. In asking tough questions of the art she practices, her third album reveals a fearless and visionary performer.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: DJ Kool Herc
DJ Kool Herc is considered the first DJ to isolate the breaks --the most danceable beats in a record — and repeat them, to keep the dancers going. Originally broadcast in 2005.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: Grandmaster Flash
Grandmaster Flash was one of the first DJs to make successful records. In 2002, he spoke to Fresh Air about how he discovered that he could use turntables as instruments.
'Fresh Air' celebrates 50 years of hip-hop: Rapper Melle Mel
Melle Mel was the rapper on the 1982 hit "The Message." He spoke to Fresh Air in 1998 about the early days of rap, music with a social message and how the genre and his life had changed.