Search results for

When The Beatles' members started Apple Records 40 years ago, they still depended on larger companies for the basics. Independent labels, including some run by musicians, have come a long way since. A small but growing number of musicians are taking the idea of the independent label even further.

Thelonious Monk, one of the most important figures in jazz history, wrote most of his most popular songs between 1947-1952. The two-CD set, Genius of Modern Music, tracks the legendary pianist during this critical time. The album has alternate takes of many of his best-known works.

By the 1930s, Duke Ellington had already risen to the top of the jazz world. What was to come proved that his band occupied its own musical universe: Decade after decade, Ellington's ever-talented orchestra rode incredible waves of creativity.

The nation's blowhards have just a few days left to indulge in a time-honored quadrennial tradition: announcing that, if a certain candidate is elected president, they'll pull up stakes and move to Canada. Before jumping in the car and heading north, get to know some of the music that you'll soon call your own.

Jazz icon Louis Armstrong didn't just leave behind a treasure trove of musical recordings; he also documented hundreds of his private conversations on tape. Those recordings served as the basis for Terry Teachout's new biography of the legendary musician, Pops: A Life of Louis Armstrong.

Everybody loves Cole Porter. But most jazz musicians really love Cole Porter. Singers love his lyrics, which showcase great wit, amazing rhymes and beautiful imagery. Instrumentalists love his elegant melodies and sophisticated song structures. Celebrate Porter's birthday with Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Nellie McKay and more.

For Dinah Washington's centennial, WRTI's Bob Craig recounts some milestones in her recording career — a body of work that justifies but also transcends her main sobriquet, the Queen of the Blues.

'The Moment of Truth: Ella at the Coliseum' is a newly unearthed Ella Fitzgerald recording from 1967, with members of Duke Ellington's band. Hear its title track now.

Where can you find the most delightful music for the most wonderful time of the year? On WRTI, of course! A sleighful of yuletide favorites are on their way to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.

Mitt Romney has won Arizona and, in a close race, his home state of Michigan. But the narrow win there over Rick Santorum may do little to help Romney's chances in upcoming primary states where his poll numbers have already been weak.