Music

3 Grammy contenders share outrage at all-white category, decline nominations
The Okee Dokee Brothers, Alastair Moock and Dog on Fleas — three of five acts nominated in the best children's album category — share their equity-based rationalizations for declining the ballot.
Singer Gerry Marsden of Gerry and the Pacemakers dies at 78
Gerry Marsden, lead singer of the 1960s British group Gerry and the Pacemakers that had such hits as “Ferry Cross the Mersey” and the song that became the anthem of Liverpool Football Club, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” has died. He was 78.
New book details Prince's life 'on and off the record'
Neal Karlen’s new memoir "This Thing Called Life: Prince’s Odyssey On and Off the Record," details a complicated relationship with a complex man.
'Aspen Ideas Now': The importance of music and the arts on our brains and health
From the “Aspen Ideas Now” series, renowned singer Renee Fleming and National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Francis Collins speak about how music and the arts affect us.
How Minnesota arts community adapted during pandemic 
When the pandemic closed live theater and music this year, many artists got creative. Guest host Euan Kerr spoke with listeners and local artists about the struggle and highlights of 2020. 
Art Hounds: A holiday performance with soul
Plus, a virtual Rock and Roll Christmas Spectacular from central Minnesota and a Duluth-based puzzle room to play with friends over the holidays.
VocalEssence pushes forward with annual Christmas concert
Like so many holiday traditions, VocalEssence’s annual “Welcome Christmas” concert looks very different this year. Associate conductor Phillip Shoultz spoke with Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer about the production.
Light shows, virtual ballets and yes, Dickens: A pandemic guide to holiday festivities
There will be no in-person “Christmas Carol” at the Guthrie Theater this year, and Clara and the nutcracker will only be visiting the Land of Sweets in our dreams (or on our screens). While 2020’s celebrations may be at a distance, there are still plenty of opportunities for festive holiday activities. Here are a few ideas.
Jewish cantors in Wisconsin celebrate Hanukkah with virtual concert
Jewish cantors in Wisconsin are celebrating Hanukkah in a new way during the pandemic: They will gather virtually and broadcast a concert of holiday music for audiences across the country.