Popular music

In 2010, Richards recounted how he woke up just long enough to record the famous opening riff of "Satisfaction" on a cassette player he'd placed next to his bed: "I actually dreamt the damned thing."

Terry Gross spoke with Queen lead guitarist Brian May in 2010 about recording the many vocals in "Bohemian Rhapsody," writing the anthem "We Will Rock You" and getting a PhD in astrophysics.

Best known for novelty songs like "King of the Road," Miller was also a serious songwriter who wrote ballads for artists such as Ray Price. Miller's '70 album A Trip in the Country is newly available.

In his new book, Roots co-founder Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson starts in 1971 and moves year-by-year through his life, writing about memories, turning points and the songs he listened to.

In his new book, Roots co-founder Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson starts in 1971 and moves year-by-year through his life, writing about memories, turning points and the songs he listened to.

Bennett continued performing even after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016. Now, at 95, he will retire, following doctor's orders. Bennett spoke with Terry Gross in 1982, 1991 and 1998.

The duo perform songs from their debut album, which draws on the music of the '30s and '40s. "There is a timeless quality to these old standards," Vilray says. Originally broadcast Feb. 18, 2020.

Wainwright and Giordano collaborated on the period music for the series Boardwalk Empire and the film The Aviator. Their latest album is I'd Rather Lead a Band. Originally broadcast Dec. 2, 2020.

Dawnie Walton's debut novel centers on a fictional interracial rock duo from the 1970s: Opal is a Black proto Afro-punk singer from Detroit, and Nev is a goofy white British singer-songwriter. Walton's book 'The Final Revival of Opal & Nev' has gotten lots of critical acclaim.

Ahmed is nominated for an Oscar for his role as a drummer who loses his hearing in Sound of Metal. To prepare for the part, he immersed himself in deaf culture. Originally broadcast Dec. 15, 2020.