Bullseye with Jesse Thorn

Common and Pete Rock are two of hip-hop's greatest heroes. Now, the two icons have combined their genius to release their first collaborative work together, The Auditorium Vol. 1. We get into the album, discuss some of the pair's most profound tracks, and spin into a conversation on breakdancing at 50.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ghostbuster! Beldar the Conehead! Blues Brother Elwood! The one and only Dan Aykroyd joins us. In the audio documentary Blues Brothers: The Arc of Gratitude, Aykroyd tells the story of how the band formed, how it persevered through decades of tumult, including the death of its co-founder and friend, John Belushi. Dan Aykroyd talks about the history of The Blues Brothers, the making of Ghostbusters, and so much more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Bilal is a vocalist with a foot in two worlds. He's a rap fan's favorite jazz singer, or a jazz fan's favorite hip hop singer. He joins to talk about his new project Live at Glasshaus (Glasshaus Presents), which came out earlier this summer. He also shares how he and his longtime collaborator and friend Robert Glasper first met. Plus, Bilal also talks about how he got together with a big band in Germany to perform a Curtis Mayfield tribute concert.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Megan Stalter, an actor and comedian famous for her role as Kayla in 'Hacks,' shares insights about her journey in comedy and acting. She discusses her new film 'Cora Bora,' exploring themes of love and identity as a singer-songwriter in a challenging long-distance relationship. Stalter reflects on her upbringing in a Pentecostal church and the unique blend of faith and queer identity. With humor, she navigates themes of confidence and vulnerability on stage, showcasing the importance of self-awareness in her performances.

Actor and comedian Paul Scheer discusses his new book and recounts a compelling encounter with Christopher Walken. He shares childhood stories, his love for the LA Clippers, and memories of running a video store. The podcast delves into his personal journey and reflections on trauma and cinema.

Lead singer Tim Harrington and bassist Syd Butler of Les Savy Fav discuss their new album recorded in Harrington's attic, Harrington's bipolar disorder diagnosis, and their 30-year journey in the music industry with reflections on creativity and vulnerability on stage.

Lead singer of System of a Down, Serj Tankian, discusses his new memoir, band's music evolution, and emotional connection in metal music. He explores identity, intergenerational trauma, and the making of albums 'Mesmerize' and 'Hypnotize'. Tankian reflects on childhood experiences, his music career journey, and the unique sound of System of a Down.

Molly Gordon joins us to talk about starring on FX's hit series The Bear. She get into what it's been like working with the incredible cast and how it's been to play a resident ER doctor on the show. She also shares what it was like growing up with parents who worked in show business and tell us what they taught her about filmmaking.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ms. Pat's standup comedy is direct, clever and raw. She headlines shows all over the country and she's got her own TV show - The Ms. Pat Show on BET Plus. We'll get into her Emmy nominated sitcom, her extraordinarily difficult road to success and why she decided to take a chance on standup in the first place. Plus, a bonkers story about the time she took an order from a U.S. President at a fast food restaurant.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tanya Tucker is a country music legend! She's been singing since she was nine years old and has released about two dozen records in her time. When Tanya was last on Bullseye, she had just released her Grammy award-winning album While I'm Living. She talks about the album, turning down Elvis Presley, and so much more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy