Indie folk band Beirut are out with their latest album, 'Gallipoli.' The band's leader, Zach Condon, talks with NPR's Scott Simon about emphasizing music over lyrics and escaping to unexpected places for inspiration.

The frigid polar vortex has passed, and Minnesotans are stuffing Target, gas stations, and every other errand spot they avoided for three days. Well, except me. I’m getting over my second cold of the month and dealing with a new bout of pink eye…so I still rely on screens for my interaction with the world.…

I’ll have to admit, I was dreading leaving my bed and heated blanket on Thursday night. It was -4°, it still hurt to breathe in the brisk air, and it was snowing. But, I layered two pairs of pants and the thick sweatshirt I only wear in public if it’s really that cold, and I…

Antoine Patton was born, 17 year-old Neil Young performed his first professional gig, The Beatles started a seven-week run at No. 1 on the U.S. singles chart with "I Want To Hold Your Hand", and Big Boi was born.

We're celebrating Black History Month by spotlighting black musical artists whose voices and songs changed the world, throughout the decades and across genres. We'll also post four essays delving into a deep, enduring and ever-evolving body of work. This first entry collects tales from 13 artists about the creation of their inspirational social and political anthems of black pride and empowerment.

The Current is honoring the music and contributions of Black musicians in February, and we're starting off by dedicating Friday, Feb. 1, exclusively to music made by Black musicians.

This week, the Specials are releasing their first new album in 18 years - with a special guest, an activist who went viral wearing a Specials shirt while confronting a far-right group. Also, Jay and Jade spotlight new music from Billie Eilish, Cherry Glazerr, Mandolin Orange, Girlpool, Emily King.

Every year Mark Wheat hosts your Valentine's Day evening soundtrack with requests and dedications for the greatest love songs of all-time.

Sixty years ago this week, the Winter Dance Party concert tour was crisscrossing Minnesota and neighboring states, featuring Ritchie Valens, J.P. 'the Big Bopper' Richardson and Buddy Holly. Then came 'The Day the Music Died.'

Since its inception in 1926, Black History Month commemorates the valuable contributions, achievements, and the remarkable history of black Americans. In honor of Black History Month, I asked several black Minnesota leaders to share the artists and songs that inspire them. As we continue to see her voice emerge, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar shows strength,…