The Whispers’ Social Conscience
March 11, 2021
In the 70s, the L.A. vocal troupe established a reputation for thoughtful and topical soul — an era often overlooked today.
ALL: Opening Acts
Gamble & Huff in the 60s
March 9, 2021
The 50th anniversary of Philadelphia International affords the opportunity to revisit the early history of a duo who defined classic soul.
Early Rap Full-Lengths (1980-1982)
March 1, 2021
A list of every rap full-length released between 1980 and 1982.
Top 10 Wu-Tang Albums: Second Wave (1997-2000)
February 1, 2021
A list of the best of Wu-Tang Clan’s second era (starting with their second album).
Daniel “DOOM” Dumile: 1971-2020
January 1, 2021
A remembrance of the work of DOOM, the greatest rapper/producer of his era.
Cover Art Gems: Lupe Fiasco & Kaelin Ellis, House
August 7, 2020
Life during a pandemic is given an impressionist perspective. Cover art by the late Peter Gellatly.
The 100 Best Rap Singles of 1990: A Tribe Called Quest
July 21, 2020
A Tribe Called Quest formally introduced themselves to the MTV audience with three classic singles marked by infectious optimism.
2020 Protest Raps: Music for the American Spring
June 6, 2020
These protest songs fulfill a tradition: when a crisis hits the Black community, the musicians shift to address it.
Rap Songs for Home
April 26, 2020
As the coronavirus epidemic continues to roil the globe, this playlist of rap songs is assembled the meaning of the word “home.”
Rap Art in the Coronavirus Era
April 26, 2020
As the world adapts to life under a global pandemic, the album art of several recent rap releases is having a noticeable impact.
10 Great Artists I Saw Get Booed/Heckled in Concert
March 31, 2020
A list of famous artists that I saw get booed and/or heckled in concert.