Stephen Thompson

Sidney Madden, an NPR Music reporter, breaks down the legal drama surrounding the Kendrick Lamar and Drake rivalry. Stephen Thompson, NPR Music host and pop culture expert, adds insights about the Super Bowl and Lamar's highly anticipated performance. They discuss the implications of Kendrick's diss tracks, the legal battles with Universal Music Group, and the cultural significance of his halftime show. The duo also explores the evolution of the Super Bowl halftime spectacle and the challenges artists face in blending politics with entertainment.

Linda Holmes and Stephen Thompson, co-hosts of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dive into the exciting world of the Academy Awards. They share insights on the fierce competition between blockbusters and critic favorites, like 'Dune: Part Two' and 'The Substance.' Predictions for major awards, particularly Best Picture and standout performances, spark engaging debate. The duo also touches on overlooked films and the evolving landscape of storytelling in cinema, all wrapped in their trademark wit and analysis.

Stephen Thompson, host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dives into the allure of football films. He explores what makes these movies resonate, from iconic motivational speeches to classic underdog tales. The conversation highlights the emotional depth found in friendships, like that of Brian Piccolo and Gail Sayers. They also critique recent changes in football cinema, addressing societal issues like racism and the decline of mid-budget films. With Super Bowl weekend as context, the discussion is a fascinating look at the heart of America’s favorite sport.

Aisha Harris and Stephen Thompson, hosts of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dive into the world of 'best of' lists that spark both joy and outrage. They discuss the recent backlash against Rolling Stone’s greatest singers list, tackling the exclusion of icons like Celine Dion. The conversation explores the complexities of rankings, the need for inclusivity, and how these lists influence audience choices. They also examine the evolving cultural canon and the role of these rankings in shaping our appreciation of art and cinema.

Join Stephen Thompson, NPR music host and co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour, as he dives into the unique phenomenon of K-pop and its summer impact. They discuss the surprising lack of a true song of the summer this year, exploring what that reveals about today’s music landscape. From standout tracks to the nostalgic comparisons with past anthems, they reflect on how hits are shaped in the age of streaming. The conversation also touches on the cultural buzz around 'Kidz Bop: It's the Devil' and what makes certain songs resonate across generations.