Rolling Stone Music Now

Mankaprr Conteh and Andre Gee join host Brian Hiatt to discuss the best hip-hop, R&B, and Afropop of 2023. They delve into the evolution of hip-hop and showcase their favorite tracks. They discuss albums by Zaloopers, Hair, Mr. EZ, Adokunle Gold, and DeVito, highlighting their unique styles and influences. They also explore the challenges of balancing work and life responsibilities and introduce Dash Pass from DoorDash. They appreciate the unique qualities of different rap and R&B albums.

From getting Joni Mitchell to perform to saving Mariah Carey from traffic in a golf cart, executive producer Ben Winston spills-behind-the-scenes secrets of this year's Grammy ceremony in an in-depth interview with host Brian Hiatt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raj Kapoor, executive producer of the Grammy Awards, previews this year's performances, from Joni Mitchell to Travis Scott to Billy Joel to Billie Eilish — and is there still a chance Taylor Swift and Beyoncé might perform? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a new "We Are the World" documentary hitting Netflix, we look back at the one-of-a-kind all-star sessions, where Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder and dozens of others joined forces. Host Brian Hiatt talks to Bao Nguyen, director of the new doc, The Greatest Night in Pop; Tom Bahler, who was the vocal arranger for "We Are the World"; and Sheila E, who talks about her experience as one of the singers that night — and how she felt that the song's makers were using her to try to get Prince to show up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Continuing our series on the best music of 2023, we look at the best of Americana and country, with Joseph Hudak joining host Brian Hiatt to talk about releases from Zach Bryan, Jason Isbell, Lucinda Williams, and many, many more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Angie Martoccio, Jon Dolan, and Simon Vozick-Levinson join the host to discuss the best indie-rock albums of 2023, highlighting breakthrough acts, sonic experimentation, and unique sounds. They touch on anticipated upcoming releases, a Bob Marley biopic, and a collaboration for financial empowerment. The hosts also delve into the unconventional success of Water From Your Eyes and the intimate, experimental vs classic indie rock albums. They explore an artist's previous work, influences, and upcoming album, and discover the unique sound of Pope Song, an England-based band.

Genre-jumping innovator Kali Uchis discusses her new album Orquídeas, pushing creative boundaries, maintaining autonomy as an artist, and her friendship with Carol G. They also touch on her collaborations with Gorillaz and Tyler, the Creator.

The podcast discusses the backlash Green Day faced for their political statements, the impact of musical endorsements on political campaigns, and the potential influence of big music names in elections. It also explores the misconception that punk music is not political and the challenges of being exposed to differing opinions. The episode ends with Green Day reclaiming the zeitgeist and a reminder to subscribe to the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast.

Snoop Dogg, Lil Yachty, and Gucci Mane join Latto, Tierra Whack, and Jon Batiste in conversations for Rolling Stone's Musicians on Musicians interviews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chaka Khan looks back at highlights of her career, working with Prince and friendship with Joni Mitchell. They discuss letting go of grudges and living in the moment. There is a discussion on the understanding and appreciation of Joni Mitchell's music. Chaka Khan reflects on her first album purchase, legacy, concerns on technology in music, fame, peace, and love for nature.