Guest DJ: The Politics And Passions Of Roger Waters
The bassist, singer and songwriter behind some of the 20th century's most iconic music goes deep into race, civil rights, prison reform, the troubled music industry and more.
Music Interviews
Santa Monica Symphony Orchestra Confronts Controversy Over Right-Wing Guest Conductor
Musicians are protesting the invitation extended to radio host Dennis Prager to guest conduct; they say Prager is "deeply bigoted." But music director Guido Lamell says: "Music trumps politics."
'Almost Home' Celebrates The Blind Boys Of Alabama's Storied Lives
Since their 1948 debut, the Blind Boys have won 6 Grammys and performed at the White House. Songs on the group's new album consider personal and historical moments in the members' lives.
Takes One To Know One: Rapper Ugly God Speaks To (And For) Teens
The 20-year-old started making viral videos; now, he has released his debut album. He owes his success, in part, to a social media-fueled youth culture revolution that prizes teen perspectives.
'Hindrance Became The Power': Passion Pit's Angelakos On Music And Mental Health
Due to his own experiences with mental illness, Angelakos has become involved in advocacy — including founding the WishArt Group and donating the royalties from sales of his new album to research.
SoundCloud Saved By The Bell Of A Big Chunk Of Financing
After a noisy month in the press and a significant round of layoffs, SoundCloud announced today it had secured its largest round of financing to date, ending speculation of its demise (for now).
Weekend LISTening: Five Songs You Gotta Hear Right Now
From intimate duo harmonies by Penny & Sparrow to The War On Drugs rocking a '70s cover, here's five great new songs to add to your playlist.
Kesha Walks Us Through Her 'Rainbow,' Track By Track
The pop singer drew inspiration from her country roots and love of outer space for songs that shine with boundless optimism. "This whole album, for me, really is a healing album," she says.
Remembering Broadway's Barbara Cook: 'My First Memories Are Of Singing'
Cook, who starred in Broadway shows like The Music Man and Candide, died on Tuesday. She spoke to Fresh Air in 2016 about her struggle with addiction and her second career as a cabaret singer.
Brother Ali On World Cafe
The Minneapolis-based artist, who's been delivering socially conscious hip-hop for nearly two decades, performs live in the Cafe studio.