It's kids who are the stars of the Grammy-nominated Alphabet Rockers
The group uses the beats of hip hop to inspire kids to create social change.
Music & Culture
Roxy Music's Phil Manzanera on the band's 50th anniversary and upcoming world tour
NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Phil Manzanera, the lead guitarist of Roxy Music, about the influential band's 50th anniversary and upcoming world tour.
Sudan Archives' vibrant music of exploration
The self-taught violinist, producer, and songwriter doesn't just experience or consume global sounds; she interacts with them. Natural Brown Prom Queen feels like a world tour of her brain.
Hrishikesh Hirway: Finding balance through deconstructing music
Hrishikesh Hirway always wanted to be a musician. When his dream didn't go as planned, he navigated complex feelings of success and failure — embracing opportunities that became unexpected gifts.
Wednesday, 'Bull Believer'
The Asheville indie-rock band's eight-and-a-half-minute track snarls with explosive guitar and distorted lap steel.
Youngbloods: Pianist Isaiah J. Thompson
Jazz Night in America spotlights a young musician and composer who is wise beyond his years. Hear Isaiah J. Thompson's story and his unquestionable gift at the keys.
Matthew J. Rolin, 'Shingles'
Matthew J. Rolin's 12-string guitar playing shimmers in stasis, then spins in its rollicking chord changes.
JID: Tiny Desk Concert
The East Atlanta emcee brings a serious attention to detail to this stripped-down performance of tracks from his new album plus some earlier career-defining songs.
Amanda Shires examines the fault lines in her marriage on her new album
Shires' album, Take it Like a Man, includes songs she wrote during a difficult period in her marriage to musician Jason Isbell. She sings and plays fiddle throughout this interview.
Community bands are back after being battered by the pandemic
There are more than a thousand community bands in big cities and small towns throughout the country.