Cannonball with Wesley Morris

Join Michelle Obama, former First Lady and bestselling author, as she discusses her latest book, The Look. She reflects on her journey with fashion, detailing how each outfit carried meaning, especially during her time in the White House. From her iconic inaugural gown to the significance of a tan suit, Michelle shares insights on cultural messaging through style. She also touches on personal experiences shaping her fashion perspective and the importance of representation, encouraging future generations to embrace their identities.

Daphne A. Brooks, a Yale scholar specializing in Black music and feminist sound, joins to explore the legacy of Roberta Flack. They reminisce about Flack's profound impact, from her ethereal delivery in 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' to her powerful duet with Donny Hathaway. Brooks connects Flack's quietness to Black resistance, emphasizing how her music shaped cultural memory and personal identity. The duo also reflects on Flack’s enduring relevance and her exclusion from music canons, asserting her rightful place in popular culture.

Min Jin Lee, acclaimed novelist behind 'Pachinko,' and Gilbert Cruz, editor at The New York Times Book Review, dive deep into the timeless allure of 'The Great Gatsby.' They reflect on their early encounters with the novel, exploring how perspectives shift with each reread. The trio analyzes Fitzgerald's mastery of satire and tragedy, while also wrestling with characters like Gatsby and Tom Buchanan. As they discuss the book's critiques of wealth and aspiration, they underscore its lasting relevance in today's cultural landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Michael Barbaro, the host of The Daily, joins Wesley Morris to celebrate the impactful films of Rob Reiner. They dive into how Reiner's hits, especially 'When Harry Met Sally,' shaped personal and cultural narratives. Wesley reflects on the joy and optimism in Reiner's work, while dissecting the iconic diner scene and the art behind it. The duo also critiques the critics, defending Reiner’s heartfelt approach to filmmaking and his legacy of warmth that resonates with audiences.

Sasha Weiss, an editor at The New York Times Magazine and a film critic, joins to dive into a unique take on the year's best performances. They discuss standout moments, like Brad Pitt’s expressive helmet acting and the genuine friendship between Keke Palmer and SZA. Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons receive accolades for fearless roles, while A$AP Rocky’s charm earns praise. The conversation explores Julia Roberts’ risky turn, Jessie Buckley’s emotional depth, and Timothée Chalamet’s wild bravado, celebrating bold and daring performances.

In this conversation, Alex Pappademas, a senior culture editor at GQ, joins to unpack the emotional weight of final albums, particularly D'Angelo's haunting "Black Messiah." They delve into the complexities of defining last albums, discussing intentional records made in the shadow of mortality versus those that became final by chance. Warren Zevon's "The Wind" and Aaliyah's posthumous works are explored, highlighting the poignant intersection of art and loss. Ultimately, they reflect on how these albums resonate and mark an artist's legacy.

Eddie Murphy, the legendary actor and comedian, shares insights from a career that revolutionized American pop culture. He reflects on his youthful ignorance of fame and his surreal dinner with Marlon Brando. Murphy discusses navigating the challenges of fame as a Black artist, his creative ambitions like the long-awaited project 'Soul Soul Soul', and his return to the iconic role of Axel Foley. He also touches on the influences that shaped his performance style and finds humor in celebrity pitfalls. Ultimately, he cherishes the joy of making people laugh.

Parul Sehgal, an insightful literary critic and essayist, joins the conversation to delve into the unsettling documentary The Perfect Neighbor. They grapple with the moral weight of viewing tragic events through police footage. Parul describes the emotional impact the film had on her, while exploring the framing of children as threats rather than victims. The discussion raises critical questions about the filmmakers' intentions versus viewer perceptions, as well as the ethics of showcasing trauma, race, and the complexities of storytelling in such sensitive narratives.

Cécile McLorin-Salvant, a Grammy-nominated jazz singer known for her innovative song interpretations, joins Wesley for a lively discussion on cover songs. They dive into what defines a great cover and how artists like Beyoncé reinterpret classics. Cécile shares her process for selecting songs, revealing her unique take on Wuthering Heights. They also explore the cultural significance of covers today and reflect on transformative mashups like Aretha Franklin's. The conversation blends humor with deep insights, making it a must-listen for music lovers.

Kelefa Sanneh, a cultural critic with extensive experience in music and popular culture, joins Wesley to explore the evolution of music criticism. They delve into the shift from harsh critiques to a more nurturing approach, questioning what's been lost. Kelefa discusses the impact of identity on critical perspectives, while also touching on the role of poptimism in embracing diverse musical styles. They reflect on how critics can foster public conversations and consider what future criticism might look like in this kinder age.