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.

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.

Boldly going where few gay men of color have been allowed to go before, Lil Nas X won the year by joyfully violating cultural taboos and exploiting media far more than it was able to exploit him.

On Dec. 30, Patti Smith turns 75 years old. In honor of this landmark birthday, we’ve compiled a playlist of 75 songs by the legendary artist - as well as by her influences, peers, and protégés.

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.

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.

Robert K. Elder’s new book tells you everything you ever could possibly have wanted to know about Elvis Presley’s Christmas recordings, holiday traditions, and even the cards that ritually went out signed ‘Elvis and the Colonel.’

Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Stevie Nicks and Shakira all recently sold off all or part of their back catalogs. Why forgo future royalties and creative control over their songs?

The holidays are a time of joy - but they can also be a difficult time, charged with anxiety. University of Minnesota wellness expert Mary Jo Kreitzer tells Jill Riley why this is, and shares some tips for maintaining mental health during the holiday season.

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.