Remembering George Michael's Radical Impact On Pop Music
NPR music critic Ann Powers says George Michael was sometimes dismissed as a cotton-candy pop music songwriter but you might not know he had a radical impact on the genre.
Music
After George Michael's Death, Stories Emerge Of His Quiet Generosity
The British pop icon made large donations to a variety of charities — and worked hard to keep the gifts from garnering publicity. Fans on Twitter have shared stories of individual acts of charity.
Kacey Musgraves Invites You To Spend Christmas On An Island Paradise
Grammy-award winning country music singer Kacey Musgraves did something unusual in July. She put up twinkly lights, cut out paper snowflakes and recorded a Christmas album. Music reviewer Meredith Ochs says her album "A Very Kacey Christmas" is a twanged out, tiki-tinged celebration of the season that's kitschy without being corny.
Bruce Springsteen: On Jersey, Masculinity And Wishing To Be His Stage Persona
"People see you onstage and, yeah, I'd want to be that guy," Springsteen says. "I want to be that guy myself very often." Originally broadcast Oct. 5, 2016.
Bob Boilen's Top 40 Songs Of 2016
The All Songs Considered and Tiny Desk host shares the songs set you up for a brilliant climax and an unforgettable chorus.
Songs We Love: Lee Fields & The Expressions, 'Never Be Another You'
Most of Fields' songs have been about love won, fought over and lost; it's a testament to his talent that each new one can feel like he's singing his heart out for the first time.
World Cafe's Best Sessions Of 2016
We recorded over 200 live sessions this year, but we've narrowed it down to seven of our favorites. Listen back to Darlingside, Ray LaMontagne, Xenia Rubinos and more.
'It Feels Like Our World Is Fracturing': DJ Earworm Breaks Down His 2016 Mashup
Every year since 2007, the mashup artist has woven the top 25 pop hits of the year into a single track that captures the essence of the year. The title of this year's mashup? "Into Pieces."
George Michael, Singer Of 'Freedom '90,' 'Faith,' 'Last Christmas,' Dies At 53
The British pop singer, who achieved fame as half of the duo Wham! before a breakout solo career, was 53.
Actors Take On Expanded Vocal Duties In Movie 'Sing'
The new animated movie Sing features animals competing in a music competition like American Idol. Executive Music Producer Harvey Mason Jr. and actress Jennifer Hudson discuss the making of the movie.