
All Songs Considered
Since launching in 2000, All Songs Considered has been NPR's flagship program for music discovery, artist interviews and conversations with friends and fellow music lovers about the really big questions, like what was the best decade for music, are there albums everyone can agree on, and what do you put on when you need a good cry? Weekly, with host Robin Hilton and the NPR Music family.
Latest episodes

4 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
Perfect Sunday morning albums
Explore the perfect soundtracks for a lazy Sunday morning, from the calming melodies of Miles Davis to the nostalgic vibes of St. Germain. Discover how music enhances solitary moments and family gatherings alike. Personal anecdotes reveal how albums like 'The Expanding Universe' spark joy and reflection. Listen in on playful discussions about the emotions of various weekdays, and uncover the sentimental connections between culinary traditions and music. A delightful dive into the rhythms that shape our Sunday experiences!

13 snips
May 2, 2025 • 39min
New Music Friday: The best albums out May 2
Julie Bernal, a DJ at Marfa Public Radio and host of Amplified, joins to discuss the latest music gems. They explore Car Seat Headrest's evolution into rock opera, featuring their storytelling prowess. Samantha Crane's new album 'Gumshoe' shines with its captivating tracks and lyrical depth. The lively music scene in Marfa is celebrated, alongside PUP's punk spirit and Jenny Hval's ethereal 'Iris Silver Mist'. Bernal highlights Jolie Laide's collaborative artistry, bringing personal experiences into their unique sound.

May 1, 2025 • 31min
Alt.Latino: Rapper PJ Sin Suela on Puerto Rican hip-hop and more
PJ Sin Suela, a talented Puerto Rican rapper and hip-hop artist, discusses the rich history of Puerto Rican hip-hop and his personal musical journey. He delves into the evolution of the genre from the 90s, highlighting key artists and the socio-political themes they confront. PJ also explores the fusion of hip-hop with traditional Afro-Puerto Rican styles like Bomba y Plena, emphasizing the power of music as protest. Listeners gain insight into the balance of authentic storytelling versus commercialization in rap, capturing the essence of cultural identity.

Apr 29, 2025 • 49min
The music of 'Sinners,' hyper-pop and more: The Contenders, Vol. 9
Discover the haunting blend of blues and emotion in the music from the film 'Sinners,' featuring the newcomer Miles Caton. Explore the revival of Foxwarren with their layered storytelling in 'Yvonne.' Dive into the chaotic world of hyperpop, highlighted by Jane Remover's energetic track that reflects modern isolation. Unpack the emotional depth in Mal Blum's 'The Villain' and celebrate the distinctive sounds of Men I Trust. Finally, journey through nostalgic musical memories that resonate with euphoria and melancholy.

11 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 40min
New Music Friday: The best albums out April 25
Coco Jones. Samia. Fly Anakin. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson welcomes Ayana Contreras from Denver public radio stations KUVO Jazz and The Drop to discuss the best new albums they heard this week.Featured albums:• Coco Jones, 'Why Not More' (Stream)• Samia, 'Bloodless' (Stream)• Emma-Jean Thackray, 'Weirdo' (Stream)• David Murray, 'Birdly Serenade' (Stream)• Fly Anakin, '(The) Forever Dream' (Stream)Check out our long list of albums out April 25 and sample more 50 of them via our New Music Friday playlist at npr.org/music.To learn more about the Tiny Desk Contest artists you heard in this episode, check out Ayana Contreras' Top Shelf special on YouTube.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Ayana Contreras, KUVO Jazz & The DropProducer: Simon RentnerEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedVice President, Music and Visuals: Keith JenkinsLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Apr 23, 2025 • 28min
Alt.Latino: Natalia Lafourcade, Eladio Carrión, more
The hosts dive into Natalia Lafourcade's new album, 'Cancionera,' celebrating her revival of traditional Mexican music. They discuss the emotional depth of her work and the evolution of other artists like Eladio Carrión, who blends R&B with cultural collaborations. A standout feature includes a unique project merging indigenous Brazilian sounds with contemporary influences. Young talent Santi Sack is spotlighted for his innovative music, while the contributions of women in Bay Area Latin music receive well-deserved recognition, highlighting diversity and cultural significance.

19 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 54min
Songs that hit you hard
Listeners share their most emotionally impactful songs, with poignant stories highlighting music's power to connect us during tough times. The discussion touches on heartfelt tracks like SZA's 'Saturn' and Laura Marling's 'Child of Mine,' revealing themes of love, resilience, and nostalgia. A dive into Kendrick Lamar's 'Man at the Garden' sparks reflections on self-worth and the importance of personal fulfillment. The episode celebrates how music can evoke cherished memories, helping us navigate life's complexities.

Apr 18, 2025 • 46min
New Music Friday: The best albums out April 18
Julien Baker & Torres. Rhiannon Giddens & Justin Robinson. TV On The Radio's Tunde Adebimpe. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson welcomes Brian Burns of North Carolina public radio station WUNC to the show to discuss the best albums out today.Featured Albums:• Torres & Julien Baker, 'Send a Prayer My Way' (Stream)• Rhiannon Giddens & Justin Robinson, 'What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow' (Stream)• Tunde Adebimpe, 'Thee Black Boltz' (Stream)• BEIRUT, 'A Study of Losses' (Stream)• Sarah Siskind, 'Simplify' (Stream)Check out our long list of records out April 18 and sample more than 50 new albums in our New Music Friday playlist at npr.org/music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Apr 16, 2025 • 24min
Alt.Latino: A Banjo, Bomba, Bardo y Más
Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary Latin music, featuring standout voices like Queralt Lahoz and Vanessa Zamora. Explore the genre-blending collaborations of musicians from diverse backgrounds, including a unique fusion of Puerto Rican bomba with modern sounds. Mon Laferte shines with her emotional hit 'Otra Noche de Llorar', while the innovative group BEATrio is set to redefine boundaries in music. This lively discussion celebrates the artistry that connects deeply with audiences across cultures.

Apr 15, 2025 • 44min
Stereolab returns and more: The Contenders, Vol. 8
Stereolab makes a thrilling comeback with new music after a 15-year hiatus, delivering empowering themes alongside catchy melodies. The exploration of Yeji's track highlights the distractions of social media and the quest for authenticity. Snuggle's evocative song 'Dust' reflects on love and loss, while feeble little horse's dynamic sound captures listeners' attention. Delving deeper, the podcast also revisits the impact of notable tracks from 2008, sparking playful debates about nostalgia and musical favorites.