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Gloria Estefan is one of those musicians whose work and mere presence in the record industry deserves without question platitudes like ‘pioneering' or ‘ground breaking.' In fact, we have often mentioned her in that light throughout the fifteen years of Alt.Latino. So it was a thrill to invite her to chat with us once again, this time immediately after a stunning Tiny Desk performance that will publish on October 13th. She gives serious Favorite Tiá vibes, and since she and Felix are close in age, it felt like a conversation with a good friend with a fascinating life story - who just happens to have one of the richest song catalogs in Latin music history.This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Gloria Estefan is one of those musicians whose work and mere presence in the record industry deserves without question platitudes like ‘pioneering' or ‘ground breaking.' In fact, we have often mentioned her in that light throughout the 15 years of Alt.Latino. So it was a thrill to invite her to chat with us once again, this time immediately after a stunning Tiny Desk performance that will publish Oct. 13. She gives serious Favorite Tiá vibes, and since she and Felix are close in age, it felt like a conversation with a good friend with a fascinating life story - who just happens to have one of the richest song catalogs in Latin music history.This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This episode was recorded on August 17th, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Vanessa Collier, Margaret Glaspy, Matt Andersen, Amythyst Kiah, and Ron Sowell. https://bit.ly/3KBVSX2
It's that time of year again: NPR's Tiny Desk becomes El Tiny, featuring concerts from some of the most exciting and legendary Latin artists around. So, this week Felix and Ana run through this year's El Tiny lineup and listen to performances from Fito Paez, Carlos Vives, Chuwi and more. Plus, a conversation about the news that Bad Bunny will perform at next year's Super Bowl LX.This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
It's that time of year again: NPR's Tiny Desk becomes El Tiny, featuring concerts from some of the most exciting and legendary Latin artists around. So, this week Felix and Ana run through this year's El Tiny lineup and listen to performances from Fito Paez, Carlos Vives, Chuwi and more. Plus, a conversation about the news that Bad Bunny will perform at next year's Super Bowl LX.This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This episode was recorded on July 20th, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Rhonda Vincent, Neal Francis, Otis Gibbs, Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer, Chao Tian: From China to Appalachia, and Dawn Landes. https://bit.ly/4nPfG8d
This episode was recorded on June 22nd, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Kelly Willis, Sierra Green & The Giants, John Doyle & Michael McGoldrick, Sarah Klang, Craig Bickhardt & Michael G. Ronstadt. http://bit.ly/3KE3tUQ
The way new music comes to Alt.Latino World Headquarters says a lot about our slight age difference. I still get CDs in the mail, with an occasional music file sent via email. Ana is constantly playing me audio files she gets vial email or texts from her new music sources, very rarely on CD. So while we were busy putting the finishing touches on our fist annual El Tiny takeover of the Tiny Desk Concert series, our mail piled up. Which means we had lots to choose from for this week's new music episode. There's bound to be something that catches your ear and makes you think: 'How did I live without that in my life?"Featured artists and songs:- Making Movies, “La Marea” ft. Mireya Ramos- Teo Planell, “El Mundo Delante de Ti”, “Como Pensarte Mal”- Ramona and the Holy Smokes, “Esta Herida”, “I Want You To Be My Man”- Lorea, “Se me ve la cabeza”, “Mi alma sobre la mesa”- Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Yainer Horta and Joey Calveiro, “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás”- Martox, “Enganchao de Ti”This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
The way new music comes to Alt.Latino World Headquarters says a lot about our slight age difference. I still get CDs in the mail, with an occasional music file sent via email. Ana is constantly playing me audio files she gets vial email or texts from her new music sources, very rarely on CD. So while we were busy putting the finishing touches on our fist annual El Tiny takeover of the Tiny Desk Concert series, our mail piled up. Which means we had lots to choose from for this week's new music episode. There's bound to be something that catches your ear and makes you think: 'How did I live without that in my life?"Featured artists and songs: - Making Movies, “La Marea” ft. Mireya Ramos- Teo Planell, “El Mundo Delante de Ti”, “Como Pensarte Mal”- Ramona and the Holy Smokes, “Esta Herida”, “I Want You To Be My Man”- Lorea, “Se me ve la cabeza”, “Mi alma sobre la mesa”- Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Yainer Horta and Joey Calveiro, “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás”- Martox, “Enganchao de Ti”This podcast episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Teníamos la reina del pop perfecta en Taylor Swift, la sensual en Sabrina Carpenter, la alternativa y fiestera en Charli xcx, la queer y teatral en Chapelle Roan. A Lola Young, en cambio, le ha tocado ser la malhablada e irreverente. Lo asume sin reparos en 'I'm Only F**king Myself', un disco que funciona como un diario brutalmente honesto, crítico y orgulloso de sus heridas, de sus deseos y de sus ambiciones. Justo lo que el trono del pop necesitaba: aire fresco.Además, la escritora Marta Sanz responde a nuestro cuestionario cultura en FAQ!, e intentamos averiguar cómo nace la inspiración con Raül Refree, músico, productor y autor de 'Cuando todo encaja: Apuntes sobre creatividad'; y Miguel Marcos, músico, songwriter y autor de 'Viaje hacia la canción perfecta'.Playlist:Broadcast - Tender ButtonsCigarettes After Sex - Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You BabyEthel Cain - StrangersArctic Monkeys - My PropellerViagra Boys - Punk Rock LoserOSEES - EarthlingLa Élite - Contento De Ser FeoBillie Eilish - bad guyIDLES - Gift HorseUnderscores - Second Hand EmbarrassmentCharli xcx - Sympathy is a knifeJoe Crepúsculo - Música para AdultosPet Shop Boys - RentCut Copy - Lights & MusicGlass Candy - Digital VersicolorHotline TNT - Break RightWednesday - Elderberry WineLael Neale - Some Bright MorningSharp Pins - (I Wanna) Be Your GirlSteve Lacy - Nice ShoesDijon - YamahaJustin Bieber - DAISIESMac DeMarco - HolyAminé - Arc de TriompheParis Texas - infinyteLava La Rue - easy come, easy goBaxter Dury - SchadenfreudeClaudio Montana, Ultralágrima - El paseoLa Plata - cerca de tiLos Planetas, Melenas - JesúsYaeji, underscores, Aliyah’s Interlude - booboo2Bladee, Yung Lean - InfernoCharli xcx, Robyn, Yung Lean - 360Rojuu - LuckyBb trickz - SuperTeo Lucadamo, Escandaloso Expósito - UMGCA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso - EL ÚNICO (Live at NPR MUSIC’s Tiny Desk)Σtella - AdagioLEISURE - SundownDurand Jones & The Indications - Flower MoonOlivia Dean - Nice To Each OtherSaya Gray - ..THUS IS WHY (I DON’T SPRING 4 LOVE)Lola Young - d£alerEzra Collective, Sasha Keable - Body LanguageBad Bunny - BAILE INoLVIDABLEEscuchar audio
"Bueno, nadie es perfecto" fue la frase con la que Billy Wilder cerró magistralmente 'Con faldas y a lo loco'. Pero Bar Italia bien podría llevarle la contraria. El trío londinense se ha convertido en una de nuestras bandas de guitarras favoritas: audaces, ambiciosos y en constante evolución. Ahora preparan el lanzamiento de 'Some Like It Hot' (como la película de Wilder), un álbum que también sigue a tres inconformistas músicos que están rozando algo muy parecido a la perfección.Además, la directora Paula Ortiz responde a nuestro cuestionario cultura en FAQ!, y entramos en la consulta de 'Disociadas Vivas' con la psicóloga Rosana Corbacho para hablar de expectativas, objetivos y frustraciones.Playlist:Black Country, New Road - Chaos Space MarineKevin Morby - This Is A PhotographCourtney Barnett - Nobody Really Cares If You Don’t Go To The PartyChucho - Abre todas las ventanasCarolina Durante - Dios PlanDinosaur Jr. - The WagonMilitarie Gun - Very HighCaroline Polachek - Pretty In PossibleBjörk - Pagan PoetryJames Blake - LoadingSofía Kourtesis - How Music Make You Feel BetterROSALÍA - CANDYÇantamarta, rusowsky - LiitGorillaz, Bad Bunny - TormentaCA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso - DUMBAI (Live at NPR Music’s Tiny Desk)Ezra Collective, Yazmin Lacey - God Gave Me Feet For DancingDestroyer, Fiver - BolognaCate Le Bon - About TimeNation of Language - SilhouetteOlivia Dean - Nice To Each OtherTyler, The Creator - Sugar On My TongueRojuu - LuckyYUNG PRADO - Pensando En TiAlizzz - Mirando al TechoBarry B - Monster TruckCut Copy - Children of FairlightJessy Lanza - Slapped By My LifeLittle Simz - Mood Swings (remixed Modeselektor)BICEP - CHROMA 010 BRILLOOklou, Underscores - harvest skyKasabian - Hippie Sunshinebar italia - roosterNine Inch Nails - Shadow Over MeNia Archives, CLIPZ - Maia MaiaPinkPantheress - IllegalPaula Cendejas - CAFEINAFKA twigs, North West - Childlike ThingsSAIKO, Ángeles Toledano - TUSACAIrusowsky, Las Ketchup - Johnny GlamourSmerz - You got time and I got moneyLael Neale - Some Bright MorningPrimal Scream, Kate Moss - Some Velvet Morning Escuchar audio
Bad Bunny's months-long residency in Puerto Rico is coming to an end. The shows brought in hundreds of millions of dollars to the island, and sparked new debates about Puerto Rican identity and politics.For this week's episode, Alt.Latino's Anamaria Sayre and Felix Contreras traveled to San Juan to take in one of the final performances, and interview both locals and tourists about the musical and cultural impact of the summer of Bad Bunny.This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Bad Bunny's months-long residency in Puerto Rico is coming to an end. The shows brought in hundreds of millions of dollars to the island, and sparked new debates about Puerto Rican identity and politics. For this week's episode, Ana and Felix traveled to San Juan to take in one of the final performances, and interview both locals and tourists about the musical and cultural impact of the summer of Bad Bunny.This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Ed Sheeran BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Ed Sheeran has been making waves across multiple continents this past week with a flurry of major activities that showcase his global appeal and artistic evolution. The British superstar dropped his eighth studio album "Play" on Friday September 12th, marking a dramatic shift from his previous introspective releases "Subtract" and "Autumn Variations" toward a more internationally flavored, upbeat collection that's already causing ripples in the music industry.The album launch coincided with a highly anticipated live Tiny Desk concert at NPR headquarters, which was livestreamed for the first time in years and has already racked up hundreds of thousands of views. During the intimate performance, Sheeran showcased his signature loop pedal skills while performing tracks from "Play" including "Sapphire," "Camera," and the Persian-titled lead single "Azizam." NPR Music reports that his 2021 home version of Tiny Desk garnered nearly 15 million views, making this return a significant moment for both the artist and the platform.Speaking candidly to NPR about his creative direction, Sheeran revealed his deliberate pivot toward joy and celebration after what he described as coming out of "a really dark period." The new album heavily draws from his touring experiences in India, with "Sapphire" hitting number one there and featuring distinctly non-Western musical elements that he admits might not resonate with American audiences but reflects his global touring perspective.Meanwhile, Sheeran has been making headlines for more unusual reasons. KTU iHeart reveals that the singer has written into his legal will plans for a posthumous album called "Eject," with his wife Cherry Seaborn designated to select the ten best tracks from his entire catalog spanning from age 18 onward. He compared the concept to imagining unreleased Paul McCartney recordings spanning his entire career, emphasizing his desire for the project to be carefully planned rather than hastily assembled.Recent tour performances in Düsseldorf showed Sheeran incorporating live musicians for the first time in his typically solo shows, though Stray Bullet 1973 notes they remained subtly positioned to maintain focus on his loop pedal mastery. He's scheduled to headline the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas on September 19th and 20th, with Hulu providing exclusive streaming coverage.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
This episode was recorded on June 15th, 2025 at the Culture Center Theater in Charleston, WV. The lineup includes Shemekia Copeland, Tab Benoit, Charlie Musselwhite, Harlem Gospel Travelers, and Abby Posner. https://bit.ly/4gua8wQ
Ed Sheeran BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.Ed Sheeran has been in the spotlight with several major developments over the past few days that underscore both his continuing global impact and his enduring creative energy. Fresh off the release of his eighth studio album titled Play on September 12 through Gingerbread Man Records and Atlantic Records, Sheeran immediately marked its arrival with a series of high-profile performances and media appearances. NPR Music hosted Ed for a much-anticipated Tiny Desk Concert on September 12, where he delivered live renditions of brand new tracks including Sapphire, A Little More, Camera, Azizam, and the beloved Photograph. He crafted the sound in real time using his signature loop pedal and multi-instrumental setup, a technique that's notably become a defining element of his live identity. In a heartfelt moment, Sheeran even thanked NPR for letting him use the loop pedal live, noting it's a rare freedom granted by American media.Just a day later, New York became the epicenter of Sheeran fandom as TikTok partnered with the singer for an exclusive live-streamed concert. The September 13 show saw Ed performing in front of an audience of superfans, while millions tuned in globally through TikTok's newly unveiled Play Album Experience, which lets fans interact digitally, unlock rewards, and save tracks across streaming platforms. TikTok described the initiative as part of a broader strategy to amplify music launches and connect artists directly with their audience, citing Ed's ubiquity among TikTok moments worldwide. Sheeran himself expressed excitement about marking Play's release in New York and connecting with his global fanbase in real time.On the tour front, Sheeran's Loop Tour—his sixth concert tour—was announced with 22 shows spanning Europe and Oceania. The run begins December 1 in Paris and closes March 5 in Adelaide, with just two UK dates, making those gigs especially coveted. In between, Ed made a splash on September 6 in Düsseldorf, where he played to a packed stadium, delivering classics like Castle on the Hill and showcasing his loop pedal mastery. Special guest Tori Kelly joined him for a duet, while visuals inspired by his new album electrified the crowd.Sheeran's calendar is packed with performances, including arena shows confirmed for Manchester, Coventry, Dublin, and Newark alongside acts like Alex Warren, Shaboozey, and Goo Goo Dolls later this month. Social media has been buzzing, especially since the TikTok campaign and live events, with fans sharing clips, reactions, and using hashtags such as EdSheeran and Play across platforms. No major controversies or speculative rumors have gained traction—every headline is focused squarely on the blockbuster album launch, boundary-pushing live performances, and the anticipation for his ambitious upcoming tour.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
This week's episode of Alt.Latino is a tribute to host Felix Contreras, who just received the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. Co-host Anamaria Sayre and the Alt.Latino team surprised Felix with guest appearances from Juanes, Daymé Arocena, Chucho Valdés, Dolores Huerta and more.This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This week's episode is a tribute to host Felix Contreras, who just received the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. Co-host Anamaria Sayre and the Alt.Latino team surprised Felix with guest appearances from Juanes, Daymé Arocena, Chucho Valdés, Dolores Huerta and more.This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Hear the songs we just had to share this week. NPR Music's Dora Levite joins host Robin Hilton to update our running list of the year's best songs, with head-spinning, shape-shifting wonders from Asher White, transcendent ambient sounds from Early Fern, the first new solo album from Neko Case in eight years and more.Featured artists and songs:1. Asher White: “Beers with my name on them,” from ‘8 Tips for Catastrophe Living'2. Neko Case: “Wreck,” from ‘Neon Grey Midnight Green'3. caroline: “Total Euphoria,” from ‘caroline 2'4. Sturle Dagsland: “Hugging Horses,” from ‘Dreams And Conjurations'5. Model/Actriz: “Doves,” from ‘Piourette'6. Early Fern: “Teasel,” from ‘Wetland Interiors'Weekly reset: Horses are really having a momentEnjoy the show? Share it with a friend and leave us a review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.orgLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
KPop Demon Hunters, or as Brittany's mom keeps mistakenly calling it "Kidz Bop: It's the Devil," is dominating the music charts. And, thank god! These bombastic bangers are a welcome reprieve after a summer full of sad songs. We need to talk about those bangers, but we also need to talk about the void KPop Demon Hunters is filling. This summer was lacking a true shiny, shimmering song of the summer. Where were the bops? Where were the ubiquitous, undeniable culture uniting hits? It's disappointing we don't have an anthem to point to – but it's also telling.Brittany sits down with Stephen Thompson, host for NPR Music and co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour, to discuss what we had instead of songs of the summer – and what that tells us about how our musical landscape has changed.To find out Brittany's song of the summer follow her on Instagram: @bmluseLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Felix shares the music that's helped him recover from a serious illness. Anamaria shares some new exquisite (and, in one case, slightly toxic) love songs.Featured artists and songs:• Blood Orange, "I Can Go" (feat. Mabe Fratti & Mustafa)• Draco Rosa, "Quiero Vivir"• Caetano Veloso, "Voce E Linda" (Remixed Original Album)• Tim Bernardes, "BB (Garupa de Moto Amarela)"• Tim Bernardes, "Última Vez"• Santana, "Goodness and Mercy"• Xavi, "Ojitos de Miel"• Los Lobos, "Bertha" (Live at the Carefree Theatre, 1992)This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Felix shares the music that's helped him recover from a serious illness. Anamaria shares some new exquisite (and, in one case, slightly toxic) love songs. Featured artists and songs:• Blood Orange, "I Can Go" (feat. Mabe Fratti & Mustafa)• Draco Rosa, "Quiero Vivir"• Caetano Veloso, "Voce E Linda" (Remixed Original Album)• Tim Bernardes, "BB (Garupa de Moto Amarela)"• Tim Bernardes, "Última Vez"• Santana, "Goodness and Mercy"• Xavi, "Ojitos de Miel"• Los Lobos, "Bertha" (Live at the Carefree Theatre, 1992)This podcast was produced by Noah Caldwell. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Sabrina Carpenter. The Beaches. Margo Price. This week, Stephen Thompson chats with NPR Music's Hazel Cills and WMOT's Jessie Scott about the best new albums out this new music Friday.The Starting 5:• The Beaches, 'No Hard Feelings'• The Beths, 'Straight Line Was A Lie'• Margo Price, 'Hard Headed Woman'• Rodney Crowell, 'Airline Highway'• Anna Tivel, 'Animal Poem'Read more about WMOT's live webcast from AMERICANAFEST 2025.The Lightning Round:• Blood Orange, 'Essex Honey'• Jaelee Roberts, 'Let Me Be Lonely'• Brad Mehldau, 'Ride Into the Sun'• CMAT, 'EURO-COUNTRY'• Tiwa Savage, 'This One Is Personal'See the long list of albums out Aug. 29 and sample dozens of them via our New Music Friday playlist on npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Welcome to You Had to Be There, the podcast where we deep dive into the behind-the-scenes of the music industry. I'm your host, Julia Gomberg. This week, I was lucky enough to get to sit down with Abby Jones, staff editor and writer for Stereogum. Her writing has also been featured in Pitchfork, Billboard, Consequence, NPR Music, SPIN, and more. We got to discuss the impressive trajectory of her career, trusting the process, and what it was like when she saw a photo of Linkin Park vocalist Mike Shinoda wearing an excerpt from her article on his t-shirt, circulating on Twitter. Truly a “you had to be there” kind of moment. Be sure to check out Abby's curated playlist and socials, which you can find below. Appreciate you listening, and I'll catch you next time!Abby's PlaylistAbby's IG Abby's TwitterFollow You Had to Be There
This week, NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento is back on the mic, bringing host Anamaria Sayre new music in the vein of her 2010s Tumblr era. Think emo bangs, bright blue skinny jeans and a Warped Tour T-shirt. Sonically, this week's picks run through bedroom pop, sultry balladry and Bronx-Dominican rap over post-punk basslines.Featured artists and songs:• Titanic (I. la Católica and Mabe Fratti), “Escarbo dimensiones"• Mon Laferte, “Esto Es Amor"• Planta Industrial, “Teteo in The Bronx”• Santi Muk and Zenon Pereyra, “seu carinho,” “CUÁNTO FALTA PARA CONOCERTE?” and “ANA BAILABA”• Maria Usbeck, “Mar”• LATIN MAFIA and Omar Apollo, “Hecho para ti”This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell and edited by Otis Hart. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This week, NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento is back on the mic, bringing host Anamaria Sayre new music in the vein of her 2010s Tumblr era. Think emo bangs, bright blue skinny jeans and a Warped Tour T-shirt. Sonically, this week's picks run through bedroom pop, sultry balladry and Bronx-Dominican rap over post-punk basslines. Featured artists and songs:• Titanic (I. la Católica and Mabe Fratti), “Escarbo dimensiones"• Mon Laferte, “Esto Es Amor"• Planta Industrial, “Teteo in The Bronx”• Santi Muk and Zenon Pereyra, “seu carinho,” “CUÁNTO FALTA PARA CONOCERTE?” and “ANA BAILABA”• Maria Usbeck, “Mar”• LATIN MAFIA and Omar Apollo, “Hecho para ti”This episode was produced by Noah Caldwell and edited by Otis Hart. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
On Alt.Latino we often discuss the way that traditions are recognized and expanded upon. Usually it's when we're talking about new artists. But this week we are spending time honoring two legends: Tex Mex accordion player Flaco Jimenez and Latin jazz pianist/composer Eddie Palmieri each died within the last few weeks. They were foundational to their respective musical cultures, products of two distinct Latino cultural and musical traditions who also expanded the idea of tradition with their musical visions. Tune in this week to see how Felix connects the dots between these two seemingly dissimilar icons — and hear some new music that also blends tradition with modernity. Music heard in this episode:Orquestra Afro-Brasileira, “Saudação ao Rei Nagô” and “Obaluayê”Doctor Nativo, “Caminantes” feat. Roco PachukoteBikôkô, “The Other” feat. Isaiah Hull and “La Mano” feat Crystal Murrayday2k, “OBSSD” and “más q todoooooo”Flaco Jimenez, “Lucerito”Eddie Palmieri, “Una Rosa Española” Audio and production for this episode was done by Noah Caldwell.Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer for NPR Music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
On Alt.Latino we often discuss the way that traditions are recognized and expanded upon. Usually it's when we're talking about new artists.But this week we are spending time honoring two legends: Tex Mex accordion player Flaco Jimenez and Latin jazz pianist/composer Eddie Palmieri each died within the last few weeks. They were foundational to their respective musical cultures, products of two distinct Latino cultural and musical traditions who also expanded the idea of tradition with their musical visions.Tune in this week to see how Felix connects the dots between these two seemingly dissimilar icons — and hear some new music that also blends tradition with modernity. Music heard in this episode:Orquestra Afro-Brasileira, “Saudação ao Rei Nagô” and “Obaluayê”Doctor Nativo, “Caminantes” feat. Roco PachukoteBikôkô, “The Other” feat. Isaiah Hull and “La Mano” feat Crystal Murrayday2k, “OBSSD” and “más q todoooooo”Flaco Jimenez, “Lucerito”Eddie Palmieri, “Una Rosa Española”Audio and production for this episode was done by Noah Caldwell.Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer for NPR Music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
In Nice Girls Don't Win: How I Burned It All Down to Claim My Power, the five-time “Survivor” competitor and breakout star of “The Traitors” shares the stories that allowed her to transform her most difficult moments into catalysts for empowerment, from her childhood growing up in a Florida commune to the L.A. casting rooms that would drop her in the lush but brutal landscapes of “Survivor.” In conversation with Stephen Thompson, a host, writer, and reviewer for NPR Music, and co-host of “Pop Culture Happy Hour.” This program was held on July 10, 2025.
Alt.Latino host Anamaria Sayre and frequent guest Isabella Gomez Sarmiento share their favorite Latin pop earworms of the moment. Featured artists and songs:• Simon Grossmann, "Copa Del Mundo"• Xavi & Kapo, "Bien Pedos"• Ana Frango Elétrico, "A Sua Diversão"• Piek & Letón Pé, "Prendan Un Fokin Abanico"• Letón Pé, "Madrugá"• Martox, "Si Es Verdad"• Lena Dardelet & Martox, "A mí de ti"• stivijoes, "Solo"• stivijoes, "No he nacido rico"The audio for this episode has been produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer of NPR Music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Felix Contreras is on vacation, so Anamaria Sayre invited her friend and colleague Isabella Gomez Sarmiento on to the show for an exchange of songs at the vanguard of Latin pop. Featured artists and songs:• Simon Grossmann, "Copa Del Mundo"• Xavi & Kapo, "Bien Pedos"• Ana Frango Elétrico, "A Sua Diversão"• Piek & Letón Pé, "Prendan Un Fokin Abanico"• Letón Pé, "Madrugá"• Martox, "Si Es Verdad"• Lena Dardelet & Martox, "A mí de ti"• stivijoes, "Solo"• stivijoes, "No he nacido rico"The audio for this episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is Executive Producer of NPR Music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Ethel Cain. Charley Crockett. J.I.D. Plug in to the week's top new releases with NPR Music's Stephen Thompson and guest DeShun Nance of WJSU's The Sipp in Jackson, Miss.The Starting 5:• J.I.D, 'God Does Like Ugly' (Stream)• Ethel Cain, 'Willoughby Tucker, I'll Always Love You' (Stream)• Amaarae, 'BLACK STAR' (Stream)• Charley Crockett, 'Dollar a Day' (Stream)• Gordi, 'Like Plasticine' (Stream)The Lightning Round:• Hayes Carll, 'We're Only Human'• Big Freedia, 'Pressing Onward'• Ashley Monroe, 'Tennessee Lightning'• Bryson Tiller, 'The Vices'• Ada Lea, 'when i paint my masterpiece'See our long list of albums out Aug. 8 and sample more than 50 of them via our New Music Friday playlist on the All Songs Considered blog.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: DeShun Nance (WJSU's The Sipp)Audio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Elle MannionProduction Assistant: Dora LeviteEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Some might call it whiplash, the way we sometimes zip from one genre of Latin music to another in our New Music shows. But I like to think of it as an expression of the richness and vitality of all music made under what is known as Latin music. This week's selections reinforce the idea that trying to identify this music under one heading is impossible. Let's just call it Good Music. Featured artists and songs: Harold Lopez-Nussa, “Niña Con Violin” Sofia Kourtesis, "Canela Pura” and "Ballumbrosio" Lucrecia Dalt, “caes” and “cosa rara” goodtoknow (paula prieto, benjamin walker, sir hope), "Mareas,” "October," and "I'll stay" Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet, “Panabe” Natanael Cano, “Presidente” and “El Juez” Gabito Ballesteros and Carin Leon, “Regalo de Dios” The audio for this episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Some might call it whiplash, the way we sometimes zip from one genre of Latin music to another in our New Music shows. But I like to think of it as an expression of the richness and vitality of all music made under what is known as Latin music. This week's selections reinforce the idea that trying to identify this music under one heading is impossible. Let's just call it Good Music. Featured artists and songs: • Harold Lopez-Nussa, “Niña Con Violin" • Sofia Kourtesis, "Canela Pura" and "Ballumbrosio" • Lucrecia Dalt, “caes” and “cosa rara” • goodtoknow (paula prieto, benjamin walker, sir hope), "Mareas," "October" and "I'll stay" • Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet, “Panabe” • Natanael Cano, “Presidente” and “El Juez” • Gabito Ballesteros and Carin Leon, “Regalo de Dios” The audio for this episode was produced by Noah Caldwell. Suraya Mohamed is the Executive Producer of NPR Music and the madrina of Alt.Latino.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Nearly halfway through the summer and NPR is asking... do we have a "song of the summer" yet? Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, NPR Music reporter, breaks down this season's contenders and listeners share their nominations.
Newcomer Emily Hines. Hardcore collective The Armed. A Susumu Yokota boxset. WDET's Liz Warner joins NPR Music's Stephen Thompson to dive into their favorite albums out this week.The Starting 5:• Emily Hines, 'These Days'• The Armed, 'THE FUTURE IS HERE AND EVERYTHING NEEDS TO BE DESTROYED'• Mal Devisa, 'Palimpsesa'• Caimin Gilmore, 'BlackGate'• Susumu Yokota, 'Skintone Edition Volume 1' (box set)The Lightning Round:• Buddy Guy, 'Ain't Done With The Blues'• René Najera, 'Painted Life'• Hieroglyphic Being, 'The Sound Of Something Ending'• Spafford Campbell, 'Tomorrow Held'See our long list of albums out August 1 and sample dozens of new records via our New Music Friday playlist on npr.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Liz Warner, WDETAudio producer: Noah CaldwellEditor: Otis HartExecutive producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Global superstar Bad Bunny is hosting an unprecedented 30 concert residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Fans are calling it a defining cultural moment for the island. Anamaria Sayre attended two recent shows and shared her reflections.Music featured in this episode:• Bad Bunny, "Callaita" • Bad Bunny, "Baile Inolvidable" • Los Pleneros de la Cresta, "Los de la Isla"• Gilberto Santa Rosa,"La Agarro Bajando" • Bad Bunny, "Lo Que Le Paso A Hawaii" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Global superstar Bad Bunny is hosting an unprecedented 30 concert residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Fans are calling it a defining cultural moment for the island. Anamaria Sayre attended two recent shows and shared her reflections.Music featured in this episode:• Bad Bunny, "Callaita" • Bad Bunny, "Baile Inolvidable" • Los Pleneros de la Cresta, "Los de la Isla"• Gilberto Santa Rosa,"La Agarro Bajando" • Bad Bunny, "Lo Que Le Paso A Hawaii" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Before Ana heads off to see Bad Bunny's unprecedented residency in Puerto Rico, we chat a little about why the celebration is significant to the island and Latin music in general.We also dig deep into new releases that include four different approaches to the guitar and a musician from Peru who defies genre to create his own musical language.Music heard in this episode:• Hermanos Gutiérrez, "Elegantly Wasted (ft. Leon Bridges)"• Bebo Dumont, "Hoy" • Eljuri, "Karma"• Yamil Quiere Ser Artista & Oliver Berg, "Bandido," "Gatito Miau Miau Miau" • Yasser Tejeda, "Una Cascada de Miel" • Yerai Cortés, "Sonar por Bulerías," • Judeline & Yerai Cortés, "Un puente por la Bahía, la Cruz del Campo"Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Before Ana heads off to see Bad Bunny's unprecedented residency in Puerto Rico, we chat a little about why the celebration is significant to the island and Latin music in general.We also dig deep into new releases that include four different approaches to the guitar and a musician from Peru who defies genre to create his own musical language.Music heard in this episode:• Hermanos Gutiérrez, "Elegantly Wasted (ft. Leon Bridges)"• Bebo Dumont, "Hoy" • Eljuri, "Karma"• Yamil Quiere Ser Artista & Oliver Berg, "Bandido," "Gatito Miau Miau Miau" • Yasser Tejeda, "Una Cascada de Miel" • Yerai Cortés, "Sonar por Bulerías," • Judeline & Yerai Cortés, "Un puente por la Bahía, la Cruz del Campo"Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This week Ana and I share some of our long time favorites. While Ana leans into music discovery, I tend to bring more of the classics. In fact, I build playlists on a streaming service to mix music much like I did back in the era of the cassette tape. There is wide swath of music presented in the show this week. —Felix Contreras• Maestro Espada, "La despedida," "Tres gotas de rocío," and Peretas del Tío Vicente"• Lido Pimienta, "Ahora" • X Alfonso, Eme Alfonso & Síntesis "Rezo a Changó" • Simon Diaz, "Tonada De Luna Llena" • Raúl Rodríguez, Chano Domínguez & Martirio, "En Esta Tarde Gris" • Rita Payés & Silvia Pérez Cruz, "El Panadero"• Maria José Llergo, "Aprendiendo a Volar" • Amaia Miranda, "Canción para Amama" • Ataquemos, "Vilo" • incluso si nunca despiertas, "la lluvia no mata las flores"• Malo, "Suavecito" • Tommy James & The Shondells, "Crystal Blue Persuasion" • Hugh Masekela, "Grazing In The Grass" • War, "All Day Music"• El Chicano, "Viva Tirado" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
This week Ana and I share some of our long time favorites. While Ana leans into music discovery, I tend to bring more of the classics. In fact, I build playlists on a streaming service to mix music much like I did back in the era of the cassette tape. There is wide swath of music presented in the show this week. —Felix Contreras• Maestro Espada, "La despedida," "Tres gotas de rocío," and Peretas del Tío Vicente"• Lido Pimienta, "Ahora" • X Alfonso, Eme Alfonso & Síntesis "Rezo a Changó" • Simon Diaz, "Tonada De Luna Llena" • Raúl Rodríguez, Chano Domínguez & Martirio, "En Esta Tarde Gris" • Rita Payés & Silvia Pérez Cruz, "El Panadero"• Maria José Llergo, "Aprendiendo a Volar" • Amaia Miranda, "Canción para Amama" • Ataquemos, "Vilo" • incluso si nunca despiertas, "la lluvia no mata las flores"• Malo, "Suavecito" • Tommy James & The Shondells, "Crystal Blue Persuasion" • Hugh Masekela, "Grazing In The Grass" • War, "All Day Music"• El Chicano, "Viva Tirado" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
NPR Music's Stephen Thompson is back with Celia Gregory of Nashville public radio station WXPN to talk through this week's best new music.Intro:• Bruce Springsteen, 'Tracks II: The Lost Albums' (Read our guide to the box set on npr.org)• Lorde, 'Virgin' (Read our review on npr.org)The Starting 5:• Wet Leg, 'moisturizer'• The Swell Season, 'Forward'• Clipse, 'Let God Sort Em Out'• Allo Darlin', 'Bright Nights'• Burna Boy, 'No Sign of Weakness'The Lightning Round:• Ólafur & Talos, 'A Dawning'• Martha, 'Standing Where It All Began - Singles and B-Sides 2012-2025'• Open Mike Eagle, 'Neighborhood Gods Unlimited'• Petey USA, 'The Yips'• Tony Njoku, 'All Our Knives Are Always Sharp'Check out our Long List of new albums out June 27 and sample more than 50 of them via our New Music Friday playlist on npr.org.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Wonway Posibul, KALWProducer: Simon RentnerEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Ana and Felix break down Bad Bunny's latest political video. Hear their failed attempt at a blindfold listening game.Artists and songs featured in this episode: • Cheo, "Amor A Primera Vista"• babas tutsipop, "antonio banderas" and "cursi"• Pedazo De Carne Con Ojo, "Sirens" and "Tiralo"• Ryuichi Sakamoto "DOLPHINS"• Frank Zappa "While You Were Art II"• Pink Pablo, "ALL I DREAM," "OJOS AZUL" and "HORSES IN HEAVEN"• Wampi, "La Última" ft. Leoni Torres• Wampi, "La Diferencia" ft. Orlenis 22K, Ernesto Loso• Silvana Estrada, "Lila Alelí" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Ana and Felix break down Bad Bunny's latest political video. Hear their failed attempt at a blindfold listening game.Artists and songs featured in this episode: • Cheo, "Amor A Primera Vista"• babas tutsipop, "antonio banderas" and "cursi"• Pedazo De Carne Con Ojo, "Sirens" and "Tiralo"• Ryuichi Sakamoto "DOLPHINS"• Frank Zappa "While You Were Art II"• Pink Pablo, "ALL I DREAM," "OJOS AZUL" and "HORSES IN HEAVEN"• Wampi, "La Última" ft. Leoni Torres• Wampi, "La Diferencia" ft. Orlenis 22K, Ernesto Loso• Silvana Estrada, "Lila Alelí" Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Kesha. Kae Tempest. Nilüfer Yanya. It's an abbreviated Independence Day edition of New Music Friday.Featured albums:• Kesha, '.'• Kae Tempest, 'Self Titled'• Nilüfer Yanya, 'Dancing Shoes' EPIf you enjoyed this week's show, we always appreciate a positive review on Apple or Spotify or whatever app you're listening to right now.This episode was hosted by Stephen Thompson, produced by Noah Caldwell and edited by Otis Hart. The executive producer of NPR Music is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Our selections this week feature a crate diggers' delight from Colombia and the sound of modern rap in Mexico.Featured artists and songs:• Óscar Agudelo y El Combo Moderna, "Está Como Mango"• Isabella Lovestory, "Fresa Metal," "Eurotrash," "Tu Te Vas"• Grecia Albán, "YO POR TI"• Vicente García, "Mambo Violento," "El Huracán," "Abusadora"• BALTHVS, "Flesh and Soul" • Gera MX, "Ciclo Vital," "1 Millón"CreditsAudio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Our selections this week feature a crate diggers' delight from Colombia and the sound of modern rap in Mexico.Featured artists and songs:• Óscar Agudelo y El Combo Moderna, "Está Como Mango"• Isabella Lovestory, "Fresa Metal," "Eurotrash," "Tu Te Vas"• Grecia Albán, "YO POR TI"• Vicente García, "Mambo Violento," "El Huracán," "Abusadora"• BALTHVS, "Flesh and Soul" • Gera MX, "Ciclo Vital," "1 Millón"CreditsAudio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Noah Caldwell. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Madison McFerrin. Adrian Quesada of Black Pumas. Durand Jones & The Indications. KALW's Wonway Posibul joins NPR Music's Stephen Thompson to share their favorite new releases of the week.Intro:• Bruce Springsteen, 'Tracks II: The Lost Albums' (Read our guide to the box set on npr.org)• Lorde, 'Virgin' (Read our review on npr.org)The Starting 5:• Laura Stevenson, 'Late Great'• Adrian Quesada, 'Boleros Psicodélicos II'• Madison McFerrin, 'Scorpio'• Durand Jones & The Indications, 'Flowers'• Herbert & Momoko, 'Clay'The Lightning Round:• Frankie Cosmos, 'Different Talking'• Dana and Alden, 'Speedo'• Brighde Chaimbeul, 'Sunwise'• Mocky, 'Music Will Explain (Choir Music Vol. 1)'• Tim Barnes, 'Lost Words / Noumena'Check out our Long List of new albums out June 27 and sample more than 50 of them via our New Music Friday playlist on npr.org.CreditsHost: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Wonway Posibul, KALWProducer: Simon RentnerEditor: Otis HartExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Karol G leans into a Pan-Latin approach on her latest album. Jazz vocalist Roxana Amed reimagines classic rock from her native Argentina. And more.Artists and songs featured in this episode:• Panteón Rococó, "Parison" (featuring Carín León, Sabino & Remmy Valenzuela)• Juan Wauters, "Manejando por Pando"• Roxana Amed, "Dejaste Tu Corazon"• Fito Páez and Luis Alberto Spinetta, "Dejaste Ver Tu Corazón"• Karol G, "Tropicoqueta," "No Puedo Vivir Sin Él," and "Ese Hombre Es Malo"• MiMa and Villano Antillano, "Fuego"• maye, "Yo Me Consiento" and "Peter Pan"Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Simon Rentner. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy