Rhythm and blues music
Questlove Revives 'Black Woodstock' In 'Summer Of Soul' Documentary
The 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival featured some of the biggest names in Black music, but it had largely faded from history. The Roots co-founder sought to change that. Originally broadcast July 2021.
Leon Bridges Offers Retro R&B With A Twist In 'Coming Home'
The Texas-raised singer connects to R&B music from the past — and challenges himself to give it an updated sound — in his new album. Critic Ken Tucker says Bridges' album packs an emotional punch.
The Long, Labored Process Behind Mark Ronson's 'Uptown Funk'
The producer says there was a moment when his co-writers thought, "Maybe this song wasn't meant to be." He also describes working with Amy Winehouse and Bruno Mars.
Producer Cosimo Matassa Always Believed In New Orleans
In the 60s, musicians left New Orleans, major labels lost interest, and Motown and Memphis took over the black music charts. But one producer didn't give up.
At The Peak Of Her Powers: Barbara Lynn's 'Complete Atlantic Recordings'
Fresh Air rock historian Ed Ward has a look in to a vital part of Lynn's career.
D'Angelo's 'Black Messiah' Collapses Years, Genres
Fresh Air rock critic Ken Tucker says Black Messiah is as adventurous as any fan could hope for.