Two years ago, Allison Russell's breakthrough album took the roots music world by storm. Now nominated for the genre's highest honor, Russell has a new goal: to open Americana up even more.

DeYarmond Edison's Epoch revels in the early alchemic triumphs of Bon Iver and Megafaun members. But the box set also reminds us that no moment of creative inspiration takes place spontaneously.

NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with researcher Joe Johnson and musician Jake Blount about the new Library of Congress guide to African American banjo music resources in its collection.

The Icelandic musician talks about her new album, How To Start A Garden.

For Smithsonian Folkways' 75th anniversary, Cass McCombs and preschool teacher Greg Gardner wrote a collection of new folk songs for children. One of them is a tribute to gay activist Harvey Milk.

The Canadian band's latest album was heavily influenced by the passing of their father.

The surprise performance at the Newport Folk Festival, now released as an album, is another exciting evolution in Joni Mitchell's notoriously chameleonic career.

Octavia Butler's novel Parable of the Sower — depicting a dystopian U.S. in 2024 — was published 30 years ago. Toshi Reagon's new musical retelling explores the web of past, present and future.

The Irish singer brings a plaintive, pensive atmosphere to the Tiny Desk.

Natalie Merchant talks about writing and recording her latest record, Keep Your Courage.

Singer-songwriter Jenny Lewis talks about working with producer Dave Cobb on her latest record, Joy'All.

Winston's successful albums for Windham Hill Records made him one of the first stars of new age music.

2023's Tiny Desk Contest unique, winning band performs a range of emotional and creative songs.

Each week, the guests and hosts on NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour share what's bringing them joy. This week: You're the Worst, 60 Songs that Explain the '90s, and Little Moon wins the Tiny Desk.

The musician talks about his latest album and shares memories of the late David Crosby.