Coffee Break9:30 Coffee Break: Songs that turn it up to 11Anna Reed • Jan 21, 2016We're getting excited for tonight's showing of 'This Is Spinal Tap' with Little Man at Films at the Fitz. So for today's 9:30 Coffee Break, give us your suggestions for songs that turn it up to 11.
News and InterviewsA conversation with Chuck DSean McPherson • Jan 21, 2016Chuck D -- a cofounder and core member of one of the most influential and long-lasting groups in music history, Public Enemy -- was recently in the Twin Cities to speak at Augsburg College as part of its Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Convocation. Beforehand, Chuck D sat down with The Current's Sean McPherson for a conversation about music, race and community.
Local Current BlogPrince announces Graham Central Station concert at Paisley Park, releases more Thursday ticketsJay Gabler • Jan 20, 2016With advance tickets for two intimate “Piano & a Microphone” shows on Thursday night sold out, Prince has just announced a Friday night show in what he’s now calling a “gala weekend” — and announced the release of additional walk-up tickets for Thursday’s shows. Funk legend Larry Graham — known for playing with Sly and…
The Current Music NewsToday’s Music News: New York City declares David Bowie DayStaff • Jan 20, 2016Jan. 20 has officially been declared David Bowie Day in New York City. Mayor Bill de Blasio planned to read a proclamation at Wednesday night’s performance of Lazarus, a piece of musical theater Bowie debuted in his last months. (Pitchfork) Producer Mark Saunders has shared audio from a 1985 session where David Bowie sings an outtake in voices…
Local Current BlogListen to a new single from Paul Westerberg and Juliana Hatfield’s duo the I Don’t CaresAndrea Swensson • Jan 20, 2016There is something unmistakable about that chugging electric guitar and that voice —Paul Westerberg’s personality manages to transcend whatever project he’s working on and become untethered from time. The twist this time around, though, is that the Replacements frontman not only sounds re-energized, but downright happy. A lot of that contentedness seems to be the result…
Coffee Break9:30 Coffee Break: Peaceful Songs for the Dalai LamaAnna Reed • Jan 20, 2016The Dalai Lama will be undergoing prostate treatment at Mayo Clinic in Rochester followed by a period of rest. For today's 9:30 Coffee Break, send us your suggestions for peaceful songs.
Local Current BlogLizzo and Sadie Dupuis release new track ‘Basement Queens’Jay Gabler • Jan 20, 2016Lizzo has just dropped a new track, “Basement Queens,” in collaboration with Sad13 — that would be the new pop moniker of Sadie Dupuis of Speedy Ortiz. The track is available exclusively on Google Play. Why? Because its creation was sponsored by Google. In the video below, watch Lizzo and Dupuis — who had never…
The Current Music NewsToday’s Music News: Madonna tells Jack White to get up and danceStaff • Jan 19, 2016Jack White was in the audience during Madonna‘s Saturday night show in Louisville, Ky. — but he wasn’t very animated during the performance. That’s according to the Material Girl herself, who spoke to White from onstage. “Don’t be laid back, just ’cause you’re famous,” said Madonna sassily. “I’m famous too, you know.” In response, White smiled…
Local Current BlogThe Cactus Blossoms, Straya, Astrobeard, City of Sound: This week’s Minnesota record releasesAaron Bolton • Jan 19, 2016The Cactus Blossoms: You’re Dreaming The Cactus Blossoms’ first studio LP, You’re Dreaming, will be out Friday, and the harmonizing duo will be at The Current’s 11th Birthday Party this coming Saturday, Jan. 23. The brothers are still thriving with swinging vintage-style country tracks that are foot-tapping beauties. Check out “Traveler’s Paradise,” above. The Blossoms will…
Coffee Break9:30 Coffee Break: African-American musical iconsAnna Reed • Jan 19, 2016As February is approaching, we are looking to you to help select our featured artists for Black History Month. So for today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what African-American musical icons do you want to hear?