Music

Arts briefs: Native art, Minnesota independent films, Palestinian performance and more
This week, “American Masters” features artist Jonathan Thunder; Pavek Museum in St. Louis Park announces inductees into its Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame; Hyperpop artist Alice Longyu Gao and much more.
Joe Rainey's avant-garde powwow strikes a chord in the Midwest
Joe Rainey creates a unique fusion of powwow and experimental electronic music. He is from south Minneapolis and is a citizen of the Red Lake Nation. Rainey talked with MPR News Host Cathy Wurzer about his debut album, which has gotten quite the buzz both in the Midwest and nationally.
A safe space for ‘sad girl’ music fans: Inside Electric Fetus’ boygenius listening party
Fans gathered at Electric Fetus Tuesday to soak in the first listen of boygenius’ highly anticipated album — “the record.” While the pandemic made in-person music gatherings nearly impossible, listening sessions are having a resurgence three years later.
The Triple Rock Social Club sign has moved to Las Vegas
When The Punk Rock Museum officially opens in Las Vegas — a date mooted, after many delays, for this April 1 — chances are that you’ll see a lot of the Twin Cities on display.
'Steve's Overpopulated One-Man Band' tells stories of life on the Iron Range
Steve Solkela is a master multitasker. He started playing accordion in high school and then kept adding instruments to his repertoire, including a bass drum and a trumpet. Solkela talked with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer about playing in sub zero temperatures and writing songs about home.
Wisconsin school bans Miley Cyrus-Dolly Parton duet from class concert
Administrators at Heyer Elementary School in Waukesha stopped a class from performing a Miley Cyrus-Dolly Parton duet promoting LGBTQ acceptance because the song "could be perceived as controversial."
Afroman put home footage of a police raid in music videos. Now the cops are suing him
A police search of the rapper's Ohio home didn't lead to charges, but spawned music videos, merchandise, theft accusations and an invasion of privacy lawsuit. Afroman tells NPR he plans to countersue.