NPR Music

Lars Gotrich, NPR Music curator who digs up fresh music and artist context. He highlights a newly streaming Beck rarity and its 2000s mellotron vibe. He shares discoveries like Friko’s psych-folk build, Sibyl’s witchy ancient textures, Asher White’s heavier take on a Jessica Pratt tune, and Szymon Wójcik’s atmospheric guitar piece.

Reanna (Rihanna) Cruz, freelance music and culture journalist and former NPR intern, and Hazel Cills, NPR Music editor and critic, recap a landmark Grammys night. They talk Bad Bunny's historic album win and Kendrick Lamar's big night. They break down standout performances, chaotic speeches, Best New Artist moments, Lady Gaga's rock turn, and milestone wins and tributes.

Dre Castillo, KVNF radio host and programmer in Western Colorado, brings local music knowledge and recommendations. They spotlight Emily Scott Robinson’s songwriting and community themes. They unpack Ye Vagabonds’ vocal harmonies and sparse arrangements. They highlight Jordan Ward’s R&B-tinged evolution and Lord Jah‑Monte Ogbon’s dense, conversational lyricism.

Ella Bric, Venezuelan trumpet player and Latin Grammy–winning producer based in New York. She spins socially and politically charged Venezuelan songs. Short takes on barrio life, Afro-Venezuelan traditions, neo-joropo revivals, protest anthems, satire and economic crisis. Threads of resilience, humor and a teardrop of optimism run through the selections.

Hazel Cills, NPR Music editor and critic, weighs in with sharp ears and quick takes. She highlights Mitski’s anxious rocker return, Kim Gordon’s softer, kraut-tinged turn, Father John Misty’s witty wordplay, and a mix of surprising indie and world music finds. Short, lively music talk that jumps between humor, tension, and striking new sounds.

Join Jessie Scott, a seasoned radio broadcaster from WMOT Roots Radio in Nashville, as she teams up with Stephen Thompson to explore the dynamic new albums released on January 23. They dive into Lucinda Williams' protest-themed 'World's Gone Wrong' and celebrate the Carolina Chocolate Drops' 15th anniversary reissue of 'Genuine Negro Jig.' The duo also spotlights rising star Kashus Culpepper's debut and The Lowest Pair's return, discussing the rich Nashville music scene and a lightning round of notable releases. It's a vibrant mix of new sounds!

Fofo Story and Beto Montenegro, members of the Venezuelan band Rawayana, dive deep into their new album, ¿Dónde Es El After?. They explain how the opening lyric resonates with recent political upheaval in Venezuela. The duo shares their roots in Caribbean sounds and 90s merengue house, revealing personal stories behind tracks like 'Qué Rico PR!'. With reflections on national identity, they view the album as both an after-party and a symbol of hope, showcasing joy amid crisis and a vision for a brighter future.

The podcast celebrates MTV's golden era by reflecting on its cultural impact. Topics include the indelible mark of iconic videos like 'Thriller' and 'Take On Me.' Hear insights on Sinead O'Connor's unforgettable performance and Janet Jackson's choreography in 'Rhythm Nation.' The hosts also discuss the rebellious spirit of Twisted Sister and the groundbreaking visuals in Herbie Hancock's 'Rocket.' From Missy Elliott's creativity to the surreal dance of Christopher Walken, this is a nostalgic trip through music history and memorable music videos.

Join Alex Newman, a Portland radio host known for breaking jazz boundaries, as he dives into the latest music scene. He and host Stephen Thompson discuss A$AP Rocky's new singles and their cultural impact. They explore the enchanting collaboration of Julianna Barwick and Mary Lattimore, highlighting its ambient layers. The duo celebrates the doo-wop revival with The Sha La Das, and the genre-fluid sounds of Ya Tseen are examined for their storytelling depth. Don't miss their rapid-fire recommendations from other exciting new releases!

The podcast dives into the profound legacy of Bob Weir, the iconic guitarist of the Grateful Dead. It explores his early life, the band’s formation, and his innovative songwriting. Highlights include Weir's fusion of musical traditions and his unforgettable collaboration with the National Symphony Orchestra. The discussion celebrates the Grateful Dead's influence on Latin musicians and features insights from artists like Devendra Banhart. The tribute wraps up with a moving revisit of Weir's performance at the Tiny Desk in 2019.