Play It Again And Again, Sam
We're all seduced by repetition, music research suggests — 90 percent of the music we listen to, we've heard before. Beyond music, this bias toward familiarity holds up in every culture. What gives?
Music & Culture
Musicians, Take Note: Your Instrument May Be Contraband
Tighter regulations on ivory coming in and out of the U.S. could have a profound impact on musicians who travel with antique instruments.
Two Leads, Two Deaths In 18 Hours
In a first for the Metropolitan Opera, Kristine Opolais made two major-role debuts in the space of 18 hours. The Latvian soprano sang leads in Madama Butterfly and La Bohème back to back.
'We Like Struggle': Black Lips On The Will To Entertain
The Georgia rockers have endured high school expulsion, the death of a bandmate and countless other challenges — and soldiered on. Kelly McEvers speaks with founders Cole Alexander and Jared Swilley.
Carlene Carter Carries The Heavy Burden Of History Lightly
The country singer treats the classic songs on her new album like living, vital pieces of art that can withstand being taken apart, thought about and re-imagined.
The High Voice Of The Low Anthem Breaks Out As Arc Iris
The eclectic approach of Jocie Adams' former band is amply present in her solo debut. Arc Iris showcases Adams' unique singing voice and supports it with cello, banjo, brass and more.
Jon Langford Sings Our Impulse To Destroy
The Mekons and Waco Brothers veteran often places his left-wing politics front and center in his music and his art. Here Be Monsters has a way of mixing pretty melodies with harsh criticisms.
Dance Music Legend Frankie Knuckles Dies At 59
The iconic DJ is credited with helping popularize the style of mixes and remixes known as house music. The cause of death is still unknown, but he suffered from diabetes.
First Listen: Yasmine Hamdan's 'Ya Nass'
NPR Music's Bob Boilen and Anastasia Tsioulcas talk about Lebanese artist Yasmine Hamdan and her new album, Ya Nass.
Fight Sound With Sound: Grateful Dead's Arena Combat
In 1974, sound engineer Owsley Stanley crafted a superior live experience with an enormous conglomeration of amps and speakers called the Wall of Sound. Dave's Picks Volume 9 captures this era.