The History of “St. James Infirmary Blues”
Louis Armstrong popularized this song in the ’20s, but it has a long history both prior…and after. We follow the trail of a classic.
Staying Human With Jon Batiste
When he’s not leading the band on Stephen Colbert’s show, this jazz prodigy is bringing diverse audiences together through his music. And that idea is welcome in these tense times.
Scotty Moore: A Founding Father of Modern Guitar
He played alongside a legend, but Scotty Moore’s work on the guitar was also legendary. Here we look at the artist and his contribution to rock music.
Billy Joel’s “52nd Street”: Jazz, Rock, Tension, Release
In 1978, Billy Joel released an album that yielded some radio-friendly hits but some under-the-radar treasures worth another listen.
Gil Scott-Heron: Hail the Bluesologist
As part of 2021’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Gil Scott-Heron’s groundbreaking work is pivotal in rap, neo-soul, funk, and more.