Honk And Purr: The Big Bassoon Puzzler
The principal bassoonist of the New York Philharmonic, Judith LeClair, wonders if you can identify a few significant solos in the history of her instrument.
Music & Culture
Sam Smith Follows In Long Line Of Stars To Record James Bond Theme
Sam Smith has recorded the theme song, called "Writing's on the Wall," for the upcoming James Bond movie. He joins artists such as Adele, Madonna and Tina Turner.
Skateboarding Celebrated At Kennedy Center Festival
The Kennedy Center is famous for its opera, ballet and symphony. Last week, officials opened a temporary skateboarding park for amateur and professionals to do their thing to improvised live music.
An Unnoticed 'Happy Birthday' Draft Gives Singers A Simpler Tune
We all know the words to "Happy Birthday to You" — yet the song's still tough for kids to sing. Now, tucked in the notes of the sisters who wrote it, an easier draft of the song has finally surfaced.
'Happy Birthday' Hits Sour Notes When It Comes To Song's Free Use
"Happy Birthday to You" is sung everywhere, but because it's copyrighted, it's rarely heard on TV or in movies. A filmmaker has filed a lawsuit seeking to make the song part of the public domain.
'Wingin' It' Takes Funky On The Road With 'Boz Scaggs
On this week's "Wingin' It," music historian Ashley Kahn shares his favorite road trip song, "Loan Me a Dime," by Boz Scaggs, featuring Duane Allman.
Inspiration Or Appropriation? Behind Music Copyright Lawsuits
Rock superstars Led Zeppelin face a claim that "Stairway to Heaven" was lifted from an earlier instrumental by the band Spirit. But what does it take to prove a song's ownership?
Aretha Franklin Blocks Premiere Of Concert Film 'Amazing Grace'
A documentary about Franklin's famous 1972 live album Amazing Grace has suffered years of delays due to technical and legal challenges. It was to premiere Friday.
Carlos Gardel's Tango-Cowboy Legacy Is 'Reborn And Remastered'
The Argentinian tango singer died in a plane crash 80 years ago, but he remains his country's most famous pop star. Critic Milo Miles considers a new introductory collection of Gardel recordings.
Drum Fill Friday, For Sept. 4
It's "Name That Tune" for careful listeners: Hear a series of drum fills and see if you can match them to the right song.