Performance stories, songwriting context and closer listening across our complete 750-article music collection.
750 stories
Courtney Hadwin’s nervous introduction on America’s Got Talent gives way to an energetic “Hard to Handle.” Her forceful voice and wholehearted movement transform the atmosphere in the…
Pentatonix bring “The Sound of Silence” to the Hollywood Bowl through voices alone. Their carefully balanced harmonies, bass and rhythm create a complete live arrangement, giving the…
Paul Simon returns to “Here Comes the Sun” at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame anniversary concert, joined by David Crosby and Graham Nash. Their acoustic…
Before his wider breakthrough, Teddy Swims gave “Make You Feel My Love” a smooth and deeply expressive cover. His warm vocal tone and attentive phrasing brought new…
Mark Knopfler gives “Brothers in Arms” a slow-burning live interpretation in Berlin with his solo band. The measured vocal keeps the story close, while successive guitar passages…
William Joseph gives Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” a cinematic piano interpretation, pairing the familiar melody with rain-filled imagery. His expressive arrangement and the film’s atmosphere work together…
Steven Tyler brings “Dream On” to Rome’s Colosseum with Hauser, Luka Šulić and an orchestra. The cellists give the Aerosmith classic a forceful bowed-string texture, supporting Tyler’s…
CDK Company turn Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” into a tightly coordinated dance film. A lone performer in a retro suit leads into a larger…
Robert Downey Jr. joins Sting for “Driven to Tears” at Sting’s 60th birthday concert, surprising viewers with an assured vocal contribution. The actor’s phrasing fits naturally into…
Miley Cyrus gives “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” a soulful, country-colored reading at Rainbowland Studios in Malibu. Recorded for the Live Lounge, the restrained…
Jacob Collier walks into an unusual challenge in bright red overalls: create new music on the spot with the National Symphony Orchestra. His gestures and the players’…
Nene Royal follows her “Zombie” audition with a forceful “Black Hole Sun” on America’s Got Talent. Her guitar and vocal make the Soundgarden song a clear statement…