On new album, Yemi Alade proves her nickname: 'Mama Africa'
Yemi Alade's new album, Rebel Queen, is a swirl of musical styles and languages from all over the African continent.
Music & Culture
Toumani Diabaté plucked the kora's 21 strings. The world fell in love with his music
The musician died this month at age 58. His collaborators are paying tribute to "a great artist who belongs to the world.”
Julia Holter on her latest album, 'Something in the Room She Moves'
The Los Angeles-based musician talks about motherhood and the pandemic influences on her latest record.
Shae Universe: Tiny Desk Concert
Shae Universe takes us on a journey of love in all its forms in this concert: lust, romance and self-love.
The Red Clay Strays on their southern rock song Ramblin' and the new album
NPR's Debbie Elliott talks with lead singer Brandon Coleman and drummer John Hall from the Red Clay Strays about humble beginnings, touring, and the faith that keeps it all together.
Tiny Desk Contest finalist Ama's song 'Amarra' came out of her battle with leukemia
The Puerto Rican artist Ama used her doctor's desk as the background for her video entry to NPR Music's Tiny Desk Contest. Her song is about her recovery after chemotherapy.
Kathleen Hanna talks musicals and roller coasters
This week, punk icon and author Kathleen Hanna joins panelists Peter Grosz, Meredith Scardino, and Mo Rocca to talk about her new memoir and the SooperDooperLooper
40 years after 'Purple Rain,' Prince’s band remembers how the movie came together
Before social media, the film Purple Rain gave audiences a peak into Prince’s musical life. Band members say the true genesis of the title song was much less combative than the version presented in the film.
Jazz (Fest) in America
It’s summertime! Celebrate the season of sun and sounds with live music from some of our favorite festivals around the world.
The Decemberists on their new album, 'As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again'
Frontman Colin Meloy says their latest record marks a new chapter for the Portland rock band.