

All Songs Considered
NPR
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 30, 2024 • 37min
The Contenders, Vol. 8: The songs we can't stop playing this week
Brittany Luse from NPR's It's Been A Minute joins to share top song picks, from Ekko Astral's captivating debut to Bunny's breakup-inspired track. Reflecting on emotional storytelling, haunting vocals, and the balance of love in life, this episode touches on unique musical styles and the power of music to evoke memories and emotions.

10 snips
Apr 26, 2024 • 38min
New Music Friday: The best albums out April 26
NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Sheldon Pearce discuss new albums from St. Vincent, Charley Crockett, Iron & Wine. They explore the evolution of Iron & Wine's sound, the themes in the lead single 'Lead the Way', and the fusion of electronic and classical influences in new music. Explore a variety of upcoming albums from diverse genres.

Apr 23, 2024 • 51min
Cruel songs for the cruelest month
Exploring the impact of jarring sounds in YouTube videos and the emotional intensity of 'The Wasteland'. Reflecting on dark songs for April, delving into themes of falling out of love with celebratory tones. Discussing the power of songs and introducing insidious earworms like 'Can't Get You Out of My Head'. Exploring love as an earworm in catchy tunes and the cultural significance of an artist's song in New York City.

Apr 19, 2024 • 50min
New Music Friday: Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poets' and the best albums out April 19
NPR critics Ann Powers and Hazel Cills discuss Taylor Swift's new album 'The Tortured Poets Department' and highlight other notable album releases. They explore Swift's vulnerable songwriting, Pearl Jam's intense new album, and commend Stephanie Lambert's courage in music.

Apr 17, 2024 • 40min
Alt.Latino's New Music Roundup: Young Miko, The Mavericks and more
Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras highlight Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko's groundbreaking music, Alejandro Escovedo's genre fusion, and Angelica Garcia's electro-cumbia. They discuss reggaeton's evolution, The Mavericks' unique country-bolero mix, and Sheila E's salsa debut, showcasing musical innovation and diversity in the industry.

Apr 16, 2024 • 48min
The Contenders, Vol. 7: The songs we can't stop playing this week
Discover the captivating sounds of thunderous shoegaze, Cuban piano classics, and deeply moving stories in this week's best songs. Dive into emotional depth, explore sonic wonders, and embrace the beauty of traditional music while exploring the impact and uncertainty of art and life. Plus, a repetitive melody and sponsor messages add an entertaining twist to the mix.

Apr 12, 2024 • 46min
New Music Friday: The best albums out April 12
NPR Music contributor Sheldon Pearce and WRTI host Nate Chinen discuss new album releases, including Maggie Rogers and Shabaka Hutchings. They explore emotional performances, the impact of first-take recordings, Liz Wright's latest album depth, and the theme of openness in Layla McCallis's music.

Apr 9, 2024 • 55min
Songs to make you laugh, with 'Weird Al' Yankovic
'Weird Al' Yankovic curates a mix of hilarious songs, from classics like Tom Lehrer's 'The Elements' to quirky tracks like 'Seagulls! (Stop It Now)'. The discussion delves into the therapeutic nature of humor, comedic excellence in musical songs, and exploring forgotten comedic gems. With a focus on musical comedy acts like Flight of the Conchords and Bad Lip Reading, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the power of humor in music.

4 snips
Apr 5, 2024 • 41min
New Music Friday: The best albums out April 5
Discover the latest albums from The Black Keys and Vampire Weekend, along with other notable releases for April 5th. Dive into the evolution of these bands' sounds, explore themes of growth and identity in new music, and enjoy a lightning round of additional album highlights.

Apr 4, 2024 • 37min
Tracing the history of Latino artists making country music
AmeriChicana musician Carrie Rodriguez discusses Latinos in country music, violin vs. fiddle, and the roots of the genre. They explore the fusion of Latin sounds with country music, the artist's journey from classical violin to country, and the celebration of Latinx music heritage in Americana. The episode highlights the under-recognized contributions of Latino and African American artists in country music history.