News and Interviews30 essential red, white, and blue album coversAli Elabbady • Jun 30, 2026To ring in the United States’ Semiquincentennial, here are 30 essential album covers — many for recordings by American artists, but not exclusively — featuring the colors of the American Flag.
News and InterviewsInterview: Cure for Paranoia on winning the Tiny Desk Contest and keeping eyes on DallasJill Riley and Natalia Toledo • Jun 29, 2026Dallas, Texas hip-hop collective Cure for Paranoia is the winner of 2026’s Tiny Desk Contest. Founder and lead vocalist Cameron McCloud talked with host Jill Riley about the process, their upcoming show in Minneapolis, and the Dallas music scene.
News and InterviewsThe musical arrival of Duluth’s Willem Dafoe Fan ClubCarly Pruszinske • Jun 26, 2026Hollis Sparhawk and Noah Ruona have crafted a slow and enticing sound on their band’s debut, Be My Muse
News and InterviewsFirst look: Mystic Lake Amphitheater changes the Twin Cities concert landscapeJoel Swenson • Jun 22, 2026With over 35 concerts on its inaugural calendar, there’s something for everyone at Minnesota’s new outdoor venue in Shakopee.
In MemoriamClive Davis, music executive and champion of legendary pop artists, has died at 94Andrew Flanagan and Chloe Veltman • Jun 22, 2026The record executive was instrumental in shepherding the successful careers of a number of monumental music stars, including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Janis Joplin, Billy Joel and Whitney Houston.
News and InterviewsInterview: Jobi Riccio details sophomore album, 'Face the Feeling'Jill Riley and Natalia Toledo • Jun 18, 2026Americana singer-songwriter Jobi Riccio talked with The Current’s Morning Show about growing up in Colorado, making the big move to Nashville, her latest album Face the Feeling, and performing at The Current’s Happy Hour series.
News and InterviewsWhere to celebrate Juneteenth 2026 in the Twin Cities with live music Jun 15, 2026More than a dozen events around Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding communities showcase musical expression while celebrating Juneteenth.
News and InterviewsInterview: St. Paul's Tommy Brennan of 'Saturday Night Live' to host opening of Mystic Lake AmphitheaterJill Riley • Jun 15, 2026Brennan joined the SNL cast for Season 51 of the landmark comedy series. He’ll be back in Minnesota for the opening of a new music venue in Shakopee.
News and InterviewsRed Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith is an official ambassador for the Special OlympicsNilufer Arsala • Jun 11, 2026The Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer will work through his foundation to provide music education throughout the games, which run June 20 to 26 in Minnesota.
ReviewsRecap and photos: The Minneapolis Rodeo rides into Surly BrewingJoel Swenson • Jun 8, 2026The Cactus Blossoms and Nikki Lane capped off a full day of music, bull riding, and line dancing on Saturday, June 6.