Performance stories, songwriting context and closer listening across our complete 750-article music collection.
750 stories
Heart’s Kennedy Center rendition of “Stairway to Heaven” builds from a restrained opening into a powerful tribute that visibly moves Led Zeppelin in the audience. Ann and…
Taylor Swift surprised 96-year-old World War II veteran Cyrus Porter with a Christmas-season visit to his family home. Arriving with her parents, she sang an acoustic “Shake…
Eleven members of the Santa Fe Raging Grannies turn the image of a traditional choir into a much sharper musical statement. Their version of “Hit the Road,…
Mick Jagger, B.B. King and Buddy Guy drew Barack Obama into the finale of a White House blues celebration, turning a playful invitation into a memorable musical…
James Taylor and his son Henry share a tender live rendition of “You Can Close Your Eyes,” pairing James’s acoustic guitar with Henry’s electric playing. Their closely…
Japanese flutist Yukie Ota was performing at an international competition when a butterfly settled on her forehead. She continued playing with remarkable composure, letting the unexpected visitor…
At Kenny Rogers’ retirement concert, Dolly Parton joined him for a final public rendition of “Islands in the Stream.” Their warm exchange, familiar harmonies and shared gratitude…
Rick Astley was watching Foo Fighters with his wife when a microphone arrived with an invitation from Dave Grohl. Suddenly onstage, jet-lagged and a little tipsy, he…
Lady Gaga transforms Mister Rogers’ “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” into a heartfelt ballad, giving the familiar children’s theme a new emotional depth. Her rich voice draws…
Behind their shawls, floral aprons and extravagant hats, the Santa Fe Raging Grannies deliver political commentary with a sharp musical edge. Their familiar grandmotherly presentation contrasts with…
The Santa Fe Raging Grannies begin with the familiar appearance of a traditional choir, then turn “Hit the Road, Jack” into a pointed protest against ICE. Their…
Willie Nelson’s “Heart of America” pairs his familiar country voice with a timely appeal to freedom, truth and hope. Recorded when he was 92, the song invites…