In past years, residencies have been an oasis in the cold, dark winter months. But this season, the COVID-19 pandemic is threatening live music again.

Kokou Kah is a rapper who describes his music as a “true fusion.” The artist, currently living in Brooklyn Center, is part of the lineup at First Avenue’s Best New Bands on Jan. 7.

The song is accompanied by a music video shot on location in Rochester, Minn., and Minneapolis.

Minneapolis hip-hop artist Kristoff Krane is recovering from a serious car accident. A MealTrain is available for those who wish to support Krane and his family.

The Suburbs, whose planned New Year’s Eve show has just been rescheduled to February, include one of the Twin Cities’ best-loved, if not best-known, vocalists.

Hear new songs never heard on The Current by artists such as Boyish, Ashleigh Still, Bathtub Cig and Ryan Gebardt. We’ll also highlight artists performing end-of-the-year shows including Reina Del Cid, Blood Smoke Body, Dessa and Creeping Charlie. Discover your end of the year plans or just discover your new favorite Minnesota artists from 6-8pm with Host Diane. **Update: The Suburbs show with The Suicide Commandos and Scrunchies has been postponed to February 12, 2021.

Since it’s Christmas Eve, we’re turning back the calendar to enjoy holiday classics from the Jets, Ondara, Gaelynn Lea, Sweetwater Revival, and Robert Robinson.

Great new discoveries from DNM, Mike Dreams, Cassette, and more

If you’re heading out this New Year’s Eve, there are celebrations planned across Minneapolis and St. Paul. Here are over a dozen festive options.

There’s no shortage of stuff to stream this season, but if you’re the kind of person who likes to be ahead of the curve when it comes to awards announcements, you’ll make sure to catch these ten movies that are getting Oscars buzz.