The 50 Best Albums of 2021
NPR's annual list of the year's best albums is full of work by musicians who hit career peaks, discovered their voices or willed something new into reality.
Music & Culture
Barbados is the world's newest republic. Honors 'National Hero' Rihanna
During a ceremony for the newly forged republic, Barbados designated singer Rihanna a "National Hero."
Vote for the best albums of 2021
In another unpredictable year of ups and downs, music once again came to the rescue. As we near the end of 2021, we want to know what albums (or EPs) resonated the most with you.
The long and winding Beatles docuseries will enchant die-hard and casual fans
The new three-part Disney+ docuseries Get Back is a true treasure. It offers an inside look at The Beatles' creative process, as well as amazing footage from their legendary rooftop concert.
Snarls, 'Fixed Gear'
On "Fixed Gear," self-described "glitter emo alt rock" quartet parses the first steps of love.
'From Staircase to Stage': Raekwon on growing up in N.Y. and the Wu-Tang Clan
In his new memoir, From Staircase to Stage, rapper Raekwon recalls watching as that relatively serene New York City neighborhood rapidly declined, succumbing to the wildfires of the crack epidemic.
Raekwon of Wu-Tang Clan fame tells his story in 'From Staircase to Stage'
NPR's Steve Inskeep talks to Cory Woods, Raekwon of the Wu-Tang Clan, about his book: From Staircase to Stage: The Story of Raekwon and the Wu-Tang Clan.
How Paramore's 'Brand New Eyes' Helped Me Envision A Future For Myself
When you're young, the choice between meeting others' expectations and making your own way can feel all-consuming. Along the way, it helps to have a soundtrack that draws equally from rage and wisdom.
Honored onscreen and in sound, Beverly Glenn-Copeland, a messenger whose time is now
Beverly Glenn-Copeland is the subject of a recent documentary and a forthcoming tribute album, both paying homage to his artistry and his status as a Black trans elder.
Gov't Mule goes back to their genre's roots to release first blues album
For a quarter century, Gov't Mule has been rocking hard, led by ex-Allman Brothers guitarist Warren Haynes. Their new release is their first-ever blues album, "Heavy Load Blues."