Wade In The Water: An Introduction
Produced in 1994 by NPR and the Smithsonian Institution, Wade in the Water is a 26-part documentary series detailing the history of American gospel music and its impact on soul, jazz and R&B.
Music & Culture
Wade In The Water
Hear the history of American gospel music and its impact on soul, jazz and R&B.
The Cactus Blossoms Go From A Fictional Bar To The Studio With Dan Auerbach
Page Burkum and Jack Torrey's sibling harmonies have caught the attention of producers and music fans alike.
Good Gracious! Words Of Wisdom And Soulful Reflection From 'Sweet Papa' Lou Donaldson
Host Christian McBride sits down with saxophonist Lou Donaldson to talk about Lou's life as a performer, his thoughts on jazz today and how hip-hop brought new ears to his music.
Lil Nas X Proves He's Not A One-Hit Wonder With 'Panini'
Lil Nas X's upcoming EP, 7, will aim to cement the Internet sensation as more than a flash in the pan. With "Panini," he's already proven he can be more than a one-hit wonder.
NPR Classical
Need a deep discovery experience? Try 1000 years of music. Our mantra: Bach, Beethoven, before and beyond.
World Cafe Latin Roots: 7 Femme-Fronted Andean Electro-Alternative Acts
Ranging in soundscapes that feature ethno bass, dance floor field recordings and techno, these one-of-a-kind sound artists are giving new life to often forgotten roots music.
Wade In The Water Ep. 2: In Search Of The Sacred
One woman's search for the broader meanings of the African American interpretations of religious beliefs as "the saved" and "the sacred."
Wade In The Water Ep. 1: Songs And Singing As Church
The relationship between song and singing, and worship and belief in both the organized and non-organized church. Introduces concepts, performing styles and musical genres.
Wade In The Water Ep. 4: Sacred Songs As History
The sinking of the Titanic, the Depression, World Wars I and II and the civil rights movement, and the moving songs that arise from the sacred music tradition.