Country star Joe Diffie and rocker Alan Merrill have both died due to COVID-19, while at press time, John Prine is hospitalized in stable condition. Musicians continue to connect with fans digitally: Elton John hosted an all-star 'Living Room Concert for America,' and Dolly Parton will be reading children's books. In other news, a new documentary marks the 50th anniversary of Miles Davis's 'Bitches Brew.'

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Internet Archive has made its online library of 1.4 million books available for free access 'to serve the nation's displaced learners.' Whether you're one of those displaced learners or just a music fan looking for a great read, here are ten books to jump into.

Since we can't reach out and touch each other right now, let's explore some musical touching. For today's 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear that mention touching?

The coronavirus-related shutdown of local nightlife — and day life — will be delivering bad news for a while. We got some on Thursday, when Ginger Hop and Honey, a pair of bars in Northeast Minneapolis that have served up some of the Twin Cities’ most adventurous bookings, particularly of DJs, announced they were shutting…

Lesley Gore recorded a breakthrough hit; the photo session for The Beatles' Sgt Pepper album took place; R.E.M. began recording a big album; and MC Hammer was born, Today in Music History.

Jill Riley continues to check in with musicians across the country as the COVID-19 epidemic continues to put a freeze on the music industry. Last week she caught up with Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers to talk about politics, solidarity, and armageddon. Jill Riley: Patterson, how are you doing? Hey, doing good. Hangin’ in there.…

Glover has found his way on '3.15.20' by using every ounce of his influences and points of departure to create a record worthy of praise and exploration.

The family of John Prine said Sunday that the singer-songwriter is critically ill and has been placed on a ventilator while being treated for COVID-19-type symptoms.

This week, Jill Riley connected with Caitlyn Smith as we continued to reach out to musicians sheltering at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Jill Riley: We feel a special bond with Caitlyn Smith as she grew up just south of the Twin Cities in Cannon Falls. If you’re not familiar with Cannon Falls, that is…

On Wednesday, March 25, Gov. Tim Walz called Minnesotans to “stay at home” to slow the spread of COVID-19. The executive order, which began on Friday night, requires us all to stay indoors, except to access essential needs and services. Although we are physically distant from one another, Minnesota’s musicians are finding creative ways to…