News and InterviewsSinger-songwriter Daniel Johnston has died at age 58Brett Baldwin and Luke Taylor • Sep 11, 2019The prolific Austin, Texas-based singer-songwriter released 17 albums of work, and also created an Austin landmark with the artwork from his album, 'Hi, How Are You.'
Coffee BreakCoffee Break: New YorkAnna Weggel • Sep 11, 2019It's September 11 and it's hard to separate this day from the tragic events of 2001. So let's spend some time this morning respectfully remembering the residents, workers, firefighters and law enforcement officers of New York. For today's Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear that reference New York?
Rock and Roll Book ClubRock and Roll Book Club: 'To Feel the Music'Jay Gabler • Sep 11, 2019'To Feel the Music' is a new book by Neil Young, co-written with his Pono collaborator Phil Baker. Its apt subtitle: 'A Songwriter's Mission to Save High-Quality Audio.'
Local Current BlogReview: Massive Attack mesh ‘Mezzanine’ and current events at the Palace TheatreMichaelangelo Matos • Sep 11, 2019The classic-album tour is, at bottom, a slightly cynical exercise. A band (or whomever) goes out, recreates their best-known or -loved LP or CD (depending on era) in the order released, throws in some greatest hits for the encore; commemorative T-shirts and tote bags do brisk business. No one is challenged, and everyone goes home…
Listen to LoochListen to Looch: the magic of Ken BurnsMary Lucia • Sep 10, 2019Ken Burns' latest film, 'Country Music,' premieres on PBS stations on Sunday, Sept. 15. In the run-up to the release, Mary Lucia talks about some of her favorite Ken Burns documentaries, and what makes them so special.
Coffee BreakCoffee Break: DuetsAnna Weggel • Sep 10, 2019This morning Sean brought us in a whole bunch of trivia centered around songs that have two lead vocalists. Let's expand on that for this morning's set of music. What songs do you want to hear for today's 9:30 Coffee Break that have two lead vocalists?
News and InterviewsDevendra Banhart interviewDavid Safar • Sep 10, 2019Devendra Banhart talks with The Curren't David Safar about his forthcoming release, 'Ma,' out September 13 on Nonesuch Records.
News and InterviewsSean McPherson talks to Sting about 'The Last Ship'Sean McPherson • Sep 9, 2019Acclaimed musical 'The Last Ship,' starring and featuring music by Sting, will make its regional premiere at the Ordway in St. Paul in April 2020. In the run-up to those dates, The Current's Sean McPherson had a chance to speak with the Grammy-winning singer and songwriter.
Coffee BreakCoffee Break: AuditionsAnna Weggel • Sep 9, 2019Today in 1965, The Hollywood Reporter ran the following advertisement: "Madness folk & roll musicians, singers wanted for acting roles in new TV show. Parts for 4 insane boys." From that advertisement, The Monkees were eventually born. So for today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what bands do you want to hear that were at least partially formed from auditions?
Local Current BlogWelcome to MSP: Ten Minnesota songs for newcomers to groove toKayla Song • Sep 9, 2019This week, individuals and organizations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area are celebrating MSP Welcome Week: a Make It. MSP. initiative designed to roll out the red carpet for valued newcomers to our area. We thought we’d do our part by offering this introduction to Minnesota music via ten songs and videos recorded in our…