News
All the news that’s fit to print (on the limitless expanse of the World Wide Web, at least)—including the latest updates on local record releases, ticket sales, tour announcements, show cancellations, band breakups, link roundups, and more. Got a hot tip you want to share? Email us, and we’ll assign our best reporter to the scoop.
When we told you a month or so back that Jill Scott is back, no one could have predicted the degree of back-ness that…
Unpacking Jill Scott’s Utterly Iconic Tiny Desk
When we told you a month or so back that Jill Scott is back, no one could have predicted the degree of back-ness that…
The Weekly Rewind: TV On The Radio takes on NPR’s Tiny Desk, a star-studded Patti Smith celebration forms
Honoring the life of Kris Kristofferson by revisiting his intimate World Cafe interview and performance
Get ready to vote for the 885 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century!
Amos Lee, Slaughter Beach, Dog, Devon Gilfillian, Sheer Mag and more headlining Philly Music Fest 2024
Billie Eilish, Lorde, Dave Matthews and Julien Baker join 250+ artists to advocate for ticketing reform
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2024 class includes A Tribe Called Quest, Cher, Dave Matthews Band and more
XPoNential Music Festival artists Blondshell and Bully collaborate on a hyper-melodic new single, “Docket”
Sleater-Kinney chat about their new EP and the importance of women artists right now on the XPN Morning Show
Kamasi Washington unveils star-studded new album with “Prologue”; announces Union Transfer date
Sea.Hear.Now 2024 stars Bruce Springsteen, Grace Potter, Norah Jones, Sierra Ferrell and a ton of other XPN faves
XPoNential Music Festival 2024 stars The Walkmen, Rosanne Cash, Pete Yorn, Phosphorescent and more
St. Vincent chats about exploring a deeper, darker sonic landscape with Philly as her muse
Listen to new music from Pearl Jam, get details on their two-night stand at Wells Fargo Center this September
Faye Webster leads up to new album ‘Underdressed at the Symphony’ with simply sweet single “Feeling Good Today”
A tribute to Sinéad O’Connor and Shane MacGowan at Carnegie Hall stars Cat Power, The Mountain Goats, Glen Hansard and more
21 Days of Música Latina: World Cafe celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a parade of playlists
Amos Lee honors musical inspiration Lucinda Williams in tribute album “Honeysuckle Switches” out next month
Delve into the musical roots of ‘Sleepy Hollow’ host Julian Booker in this 25 O’Clock podcast interview
A Home for Hip-Hop and Art in Chestnut Hill: A conversation with Jonene Nelson of NoName Gallery
Dirty Dollhouse’s catalog gets a new release through vinyl reissue label Renaissance Records
Joni Mitchell announces ‘At Newport’ live album, ahead of Joni Jam at The Gorge Amphitheatre this June
Indie Rock Hit Parade host Eric Schuman shares ten years of the show’s recorded history leading up to anniversary special
XPoNential Music Festival 2023 stars Old Crow Medicine Show, Tegan and Sara, The Hold Steady, Margo Price and more
The Head And The Heart host new Down in the Valley Festival featuring Waxahatchee, Dawes, Faye Webster and more
Will Sharpe of The White Lotus will direct the film adaptation of Michelle Zauner’s ‘Crying In H-Mart’
“The Music Of” benefit celebrates Paul McCartney with Patti Smith, Graham Nash, Resistance Revival Chorus and more
SCHEDULE March 189am: 1994 (Chuck) March 197am: 2012 (Keith)8am: 1991 (Julian)9am: 1978 (Julian)10am: 2001 (Julian) March 256am: 1977 (Chuck)7am: 2003 (Chuck)8am: 1980 (Chuck)9am: 2014…
Sleepy Hollow 50: Marking the milestone of XPN’s longest-running program
SCHEDULE March 189am: 1994 (Chuck) March 197am: 2012 (Keith)8am: 1991 (Julian)9am: 1978 (Julian)10am: 2001 (Julian) March 256am: 1977 (Chuck)7am: 2003 (Chuck)8am: 1980 (Chuck)9am: 2014…
Black Music City returns for a third year of supporting art inspired by Philadelphia’s Black music history
Joni Mitchell’s third archival series is available now for preorder, watch the artist return to the stage at Newport Folk Festival
Throwback Thursday on XPN is made possible with support from Nolan Painting, Otto’s BMW, and Otto’s MINI.
#TBTXPN: We’re Number 2
Throwback Thursday on XPN is made possible with support from Nolan Painting, Otto’s BMW, and Otto’s MINI.
Mannequin Pussy, Low Cut Connie, Shamir, Screaming Females and more will play Philly Music Fest 2022
The 60th Philadelphia Folk Festival stars Michael Franti & Spearhead, Arrested Development, Hiss Golden Messenger, The War and Treaty and more
Boot & Saddle is reportedly reopening under management from Ars Nova Workshop’s Mark Christman
Rehearsing Philadelphia brings progressive and experimental concerts to public spaces across the city
Adia Victoria returns with rollicking new single “Ain’t Killed Me Yet”; see her at MilkBoy in April
Singer-songwriter and world traveler Ryan Tennis comes to the Lounge at World Cafe Live on March 12th to celebrate the release of his new…
Get a taste of Ryan Tennis’ new album ‘Hey Rollercoaster’ ahead of World Cafe Live release show
Singer-songwriter and world traveler Ryan Tennis comes to the Lounge at World Cafe Live on March 12th to celebrate the release of his new…
The locals lead the way on this week’s batch of new releases. The Districts shift towards a bold, new wave-influenced direction on Great American…
PRESS PLAY: New Albums out March 11th!
The locals lead the way on this week’s batch of new releases. The Districts shift towards a bold, new wave-influenced direction on Great American…
“We have been having more fun together lately than we have at any other point in the past,” says The Black Keys drummer Patrick…
Listen to Patrick Carney talk ‘Dropout Boogie’ and 20 years of The Black Keys on the XPN Morning Show
“We have been having more fun together lately than we have at any other point in the past,” says The Black Keys drummer Patrick…
Join us on International Women’s Day as we celebrate everyone from the femme fatales who birthed jazz, blues, and rock & roll; to the…
International Women’s Day 2022 on WXPN: Your on-air schedule
Join us on International Women’s Day as we celebrate everyone from the femme fatales who birthed jazz, blues, and rock & roll; to the…
Loungey avant-pop favorites Stereolab are coming to Philadelphia on their 2022 North American tour. The historic group will play Franklin Music Hall on October…
Stereolab’s North American tour brings them to Franklin Music Hall this fall
Loungey avant-pop favorites Stereolab are coming to Philadelphia on their 2022 North American tour. The historic group will play Franklin Music Hall on October…
Veteran Scottish indie pop outfit Belle and Sebastian will release their first studio full-length in seven years this spring. A Bit Of Previous is…
Belle and Sebastian announces new album ‘A Bit of Previous’ with the incredibly catchy “Unnecessary Drama”
Veteran Scottish indie pop outfit Belle and Sebastian will release their first studio full-length in seven years this spring. A Bit Of Previous is…
Listening to Murder Mart, the debut LP from Philadelphia rock four-piece Zinskē, it’s quickly evident that this is a band who appreciates a wide…
Four albums that inspired Zinskē’s ‘Murder Mart’
Listening to Murder Mart, the debut LP from Philadelphia rock four-piece Zinskē, it’s quickly evident that this is a band who appreciates a wide…
Join us at World Cafe Live for a FREE Land of the Lost ‘80s dance party on March 11th presented and spun by DJ…
DJ Robert Drake is throwing a FREE Land Of The Lost 80s dance party and you’re invited
Join us at World Cafe Live for a FREE Land of the Lost ‘80s dance party on March 11th presented and spun by DJ…
When Milwaukee, Wisconsin singer-guitarist Buffalo Nichols was named WXPN Artist to Watch in February of 2022, our programming department called his self-titled debut record,…
Get to know Artist To Watch Buffalo Nichols in his Friday Morning Mixtape on the XPN Morning Show
When Milwaukee, Wisconsin singer-guitarist Buffalo Nichols was named WXPN Artist to Watch in February of 2022, our programming department called his self-titled debut record,…
Aughties indie dance collective LCD Soundsystem returns to Philly next month, playing four nights in a row at Franklin Music Hall. They will set…
LCD Soundsystem will play four nights at Franklin Music Hall at the end of March
Aughties indie dance collective LCD Soundsystem returns to Philly next month, playing four nights in a row at Franklin Music Hall. They will set…
Friday night at the Wells Fargo Center thousands of fans gathered to welcome John Mayer to Philadelphia for the second night of his Sob…
John Mayer brings ‘Sob Rock’ to Philly at Wells Fargo Center
Friday night at the Wells Fargo Center thousands of fans gathered to welcome John Mayer to Philadelphia for the second night of his Sob…
Chicago singer-songwriter Neal Francis captured our attention last spring as the sparkling and impressive glam-fueled rocker with a breakout set at the virtual NON-COMMvention.
Neal Francis’ solo-piano Free At Noon transforms his songs in all sorts of stylish directions
Chicago singer-songwriter Neal Francis captured our attention last spring as the sparkling and impressive glam-fueled rocker with a breakout set at the virtual NON-COMMvention.
Kennedy Freeman and their project Highnoon first hit our radar in summer of 2019, when the breezy single “Lens” began making the rounds on…
The Key Studio Sessions: Highnoon
Kennedy Freeman and their project Highnoon first hit our radar in summer of 2019, when the breezy single “Lens” began making the rounds on…
Philly singer-songwriter Kurt Vile is making his Verve Records debut this year, and his first song for the new label doesn’t hold back in…
Kurt Vile’s new album ‘(watch my moves)’ comes out in April on Verve; watch a trippy video for “Like Exploding Stones”
Philly singer-songwriter Kurt Vile is making his Verve Records debut this year, and his first song for the new label doesn’t hold back in…
Black Music City is back for a second year, and this year the collaboration between WXPN, WRTI and REC Philly is doubling its impact.…
Black Music City announces 46 grants for local artists
Black Music City is back for a second year, and this year the collaboration between WXPN, WRTI and REC Philly is doubling its impact.…
There was a lot of open space on the World Cafe Live stage when Brooklyn three-piece Nation of Language — all they brought with…
Nation of Language throws a new wave dance party at World Cafe Live
There was a lot of open space on the World Cafe Live stage when Brooklyn three-piece Nation of Language — all they brought with…
Leading the dynamic Delawarean funk / soul / rock and roll powerhouse Hoochi Coochi, singer-songwriter Sug Daniels is a high-energy and unbelievably engaging frontperson.…
The Key Studio Sessions: Sug Daniels
Leading the dynamic Delawarean funk / soul / rock and roll powerhouse Hoochi Coochi, singer-songwriter Sug Daniels is a high-energy and unbelievably engaging frontperson.…
Philly-rooted, NYC-based singer-songwriter Orion Sun returns this spring with a new collection of gorgeous music. The Getaway EP is out March 11th via Mom…
Orion Sun announces new EP ‘Getaway,’ shares breathtaking new single “dirty dancer”
Philly-rooted, NYC-based singer-songwriter Orion Sun returns this spring with a new collection of gorgeous music. The Getaway EP is out March 11th via Mom…
Brooklyn indie rock four-piece Pom Pom Squad brought a jolt of energy to a rainy Friday afternoon at today’s Free at Noon concert. The…
Pom Pom Squad bring hooks and high energy to Free at Noon
Brooklyn indie rock four-piece Pom Pom Squad brought a jolt of energy to a rainy Friday afternoon at today’s Free at Noon concert. The…
Doylestown rockers Ceramic Animal have a big year ahead of them. Their Dan Auerbach-produced fourth LP, Sweet Unknown, releases in exactly month, and after…
Ceramic Animal navigates long distance love in “Tangled”
Doylestown rockers Ceramic Animal have a big year ahead of them. Their Dan Auerbach-produced fourth LP, Sweet Unknown, releases in exactly month, and after…
Fans of soft indie-rock rejoice: new music from Philly-adjacent Deer Scout is due out via Carpark Records on April 8th. Songwriter Dena Miller, a…
Deer Scout signs to Carpark Records, shares new single from forthcoming debut LP
Fans of soft indie-rock rejoice: new music from Philly-adjacent Deer Scout is due out via Carpark Records on April 8th. Songwriter Dena Miller, a…
A historic chapter of Philadelphia’s music scene is coming to the silver screen: an upcoming documentary titled The Sound of Philadelphia will tell the…
New documentary set to tell the story of Philly Soul and legendary Philadelphia International Records
A historic chapter of Philadelphia’s music scene is coming to the silver screen: an upcoming documentary titled The Sound of Philadelphia will tell the…
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced this year’s nominees — 17 artists who are eligible for induction to the Cleveland music…
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2022 nominees include Beck, A Tribe Called Quest, Kate Bush and more
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced this year’s nominees — 17 artists who are eligible for induction to the Cleveland music…
For Black History Month, WXPN is once again presenting Black Inspirations, a recurring on-air and online feature, this time focusing on influential albums from…
Black Inspirations: The albums that shaped our favorite artists
For Black History Month, WXPN is once again presenting Black Inspirations, a recurring on-air and online feature, this time focusing on influential albums from…
The spring concert season keeps heating up, now with a stellar double-header at The Mann Center in June starring Lake Street Dive. The eclectic…
Lake Street Dive will play The Mann Center with The Lone Bellow
The spring concert season keeps heating up, now with a stellar double-header at The Mann Center in June starring Lake Street Dive. The eclectic…
February is Black History Month, and once again WXPN will present a month of special programming features on the Midday Show, on World Cafe,…
Black History Month on WXPN: Our February schedule of interviews, spotlights and more
February is Black History Month, and once again WXPN will present a month of special programming features on the Midday Show, on World Cafe,…
“We wouldn’t miss this for the world,” Adam Granduciel told The Met Philly last night, and it truly felt reassuring. In the week leading…
The War on Drugs take flight at The Met Philly homecoming
“We wouldn’t miss this for the world,” Adam Granduciel told The Met Philly last night, and it truly felt reassuring. In the week leading…
Join us February 5th and 6th as we honor the history of one of XPN’s longest running and most iconic shows on Sleepy Hollow…
Presenting Sleepy Hollow Through The Decades: A celebration of quiet sounds across the generations
Join us February 5th and 6th as we honor the history of one of XPN’s longest running and most iconic shows on Sleepy Hollow…
Last year, Philly’s Sophie Coran released her first full-length project, S P A C E, an amalgam of smoky jazz, shimmering pop, and heartfelt…
Sophie Coran releases a kaleidoscopic video for “S P A C E”
Last year, Philly’s Sophie Coran released her first full-length project, S P A C E, an amalgam of smoky jazz, shimmering pop, and heartfelt…
“It feels good to be off the couch and out of your PJs, amirite?” Kacey Musgraves inquired last night as she looked out at…
Kacey Musgraves cultivated joy in ‘Star-Crossed’ heartbreak, covered “9 to 5” at Wells Fargo Center
“It feels good to be off the couch and out of your PJs, amirite?” Kacey Musgraves inquired last night as she looked out at…
We’ve only just arrived in 2022 and the past month or so has been difficult to say the least. In addition to increasing COVID…
Culture Cypher Radio January Chart: Remembering lost heroes and sparking inspiration in dark times
We’ve only just arrived in 2022 and the past month or so has been difficult to say the least. In addition to increasing COVID…
After a year developing buzz on the scene, Philly psychedelic country supergroup Cosmic Guilt is ready to release its debut album. Fronted by Scantron’s…
Cosmic Guilt will release its debut album this April
After a year developing buzz on the scene, Philly psychedelic country supergroup Cosmic Guilt is ready to release its debut album. Fronted by Scantron’s…
It was clear out the gate at The Infamous Stringdusters’ Free at Noon concert that a lot of pickin’ and shredding was going to…
Free at Noon Flashback: Nashville shredders The Infamous Stringdusters showcase ‘Toward The Fray’ at World Cafe Live
It was clear out the gate at The Infamous Stringdusters’ Free at Noon concert that a lot of pickin’ and shredding was going to…
New from singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya: the single “midnight sun” and a visualizer featuring the artist walking through a buzzing city and wearing pink angel’s…
Nilüfer Yanya shines a light through the darkness with new single “midnight sun”
New from singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya: the single “midnight sun” and a visualizer featuring the artist walking through a buzzing city and wearing pink angel’s…
Philly indie four-piece Zinskē played exactly one live show last year, but it was a great one: a support slot on The Vernes’ sold-out…
Zinskē’s music video for “Freon Dumb” is delightfully strange
Philly indie four-piece Zinskē played exactly one live show last year, but it was a great one: a support slot on The Vernes’ sold-out…
It was 21 degrees Fahrenheit on the New Jersey shore last night, and significantly warmer inside Atlantic City’s Anchor Rock Club, where hundreds of…
Kurt Vile and The Violators played their first show in two years at Anchor Rock Club in A.C.
It was 21 degrees Fahrenheit on the New Jersey shore last night, and significantly warmer inside Atlantic City’s Anchor Rock Club, where hundreds of…
New Jersey-rooted singer-songwriter Katie Miller has been making music under the Kate Dressed Up banner for about six years, and that means a few…
The Key Studio Sessions: Kate Dressed Up
New Jersey-rooted singer-songwriter Katie Miller has been making music under the Kate Dressed Up banner for about six years, and that means a few…
It’s been eight years since we last had a new solo album from New England singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, but that’s okay. Between sweeping the…
Anaïs Mitchell reminisces about a dearly departed friend in new single “On Your Way (Felix Song)”
It’s been eight years since we last had a new solo album from New England singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, but that’s okay. Between sweeping the…
Cat Power is set to release their latest album, Covers, this Friday, featuring frontperson Chan Marshall interpreting a variety of songs by Frank Ocean,…
Cat Power postpones ‘Covers’ tour till spring
Cat Power is set to release their latest album, Covers, this Friday, featuring frontperson Chan Marshall interpreting a variety of songs by Frank Ocean,…
After joining the roster at Epitaph Records last year, celebrated Philadelphia punk four-piece Soul Glo announced its first full-length record for the label; Diaspora…
Soul Glo’s new album ‘Diaspora Problems’ comes out in March; listen to “Jump!! (Or Get Jumped!!!)((by the future))”
After joining the roster at Epitaph Records last year, celebrated Philadelphia punk four-piece Soul Glo announced its first full-length record for the label; Diaspora…
This weekend’s Philly Kanaval Ball, the capstone event to WXPN’s year-long project Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms & the Music of New Orleans, has been postponed.…
Kanaval Ball featuring Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Ram, Boukman Eksperyans and more is postponed to March 20
This weekend’s Philly Kanaval Ball, the capstone event to WXPN’s year-long project Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms & the Music of New Orleans, has been postponed.…
Happy New Year! We spent the first day of 2021 counting down the top 100 most played songs of 2020 all day on XPN.…
XPN’s Top 100 Most-Played Songs of 2021
Happy New Year! We spent the first day of 2021 counting down the top 100 most played songs of 2020 all day on XPN.…
Show reviews, stats, stories from Philly music history and more — these are the most-read articles on The Key in 2021.
WXPN Best of 2021: Stories
Show reviews, stats, stories from Philly music history and more — these are the most-read articles on The Key in 2021.
Even before concerts came back, video sessions were a way artists and their fans remained connected in 2021. Whether it was a Facebook livestream…
WXPN Best of 2021: Video Sessions
Even before concerts came back, video sessions were a way artists and their fans remained connected in 2021. Whether it was a Facebook livestream…
Philly rockers The Districts have called off their year-end shows. The band was set to cap 2021 with concerts at Johnny Brenda’s on December…
The Districts have cancelled their year-end shows, including NYE at Johnny Brenda’s
Philly rockers The Districts have called off their year-end shows. The band was set to cap 2021 with concerts at Johnny Brenda’s on December…
As the Omicron variant of COVID-19 surges across the United States and year-end concerts are cancelled or postponed, the future of Dr. Dog‘s final…
Dr. Dog’s final run of Philly concerts (including NYE) will go on as scheduled
As the Omicron variant of COVID-19 surges across the United States and year-end concerts are cancelled or postponed, the future of Dr. Dog‘s final…
It’s a bit strange for me to look back and make an assessment of the past year because it feels like 2020 never really…
Culture Cypher Radio December Chart: Revisiting the radical and revolutionary music of 2021
It’s a bit strange for me to look back and make an assessment of the past year because it feels like 2020 never really…
WXPN’s year-long project Kanaval: Haitian Rhthms and the Music of New Orleans concludes on January 9th with Philly’s first Kanaval Ball, a free event…
DJs Michael Brun and Win Butler will join Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Ram, and Boukman Eksperyans at Kanaval Ball
WXPN’s year-long project Kanaval: Haitian Rhthms and the Music of New Orleans concludes on January 9th with Philly’s first Kanaval Ball, a free event…
Singer-songwriter icon Bonnie Raitt is touring in 2022, her first time on the road in five years. The spring run of dates in support…
Bonnie Raitt will play The Mann in June with Lucinda Williams
Singer-songwriter icon Bonnie Raitt is touring in 2022, her first time on the road in five years. The spring run of dates in support…
With The Beatles coming in at the top of WXPN’s listener-voted All Time Greatest Albums countdown with their classic Abbey Road, it gives us…
‘Get Back’ gives fans something more to love about The Beatles fifty years later
With The Beatles coming in at the top of WXPN’s listener-voted All Time Greatest Albums countdown with their classic Abbey Road, it gives us…
Being the huge Philly music advocates we are here at The Key, of course we’re going to look at the 2,021 All-Time Greatest Albums…
#XPN2021: The Philly Factor
Being the huge Philly music advocates we are here at The Key, of course we’re going to look at the 2,021 All-Time Greatest Albums…
Anticipation to frustration, dreams to dread, we experienced a full range of emotional states these past twelve months, and the songs that reflect them…
WXPN Best of 2021: Songs
Anticipation to frustration, dreams to dread, we experienced a full range of emotional states these past twelve months, and the songs that reflect them…
All things musical tend to wind down towards the end of the year, and concerts are no exception. Or maybe we’re so wrapped up…
7 concerts to see this week, including Hiss Golden Messenger, Deer Scout and more
All things musical tend to wind down towards the end of the year, and concerts are no exception. Or maybe we’re so wrapped up…
The 2021 Countdown at WXPN is under way, and this year, we’re ranking the 2,021 All-Time Greatest Albums, as chosen by the XPN Listening…
Follow the #XPN2021 All-Time Greatest Albums countdown on Spotify
The 2021 Countdown at WXPN is under way, and this year, we’re ranking the 2,021 All-Time Greatest Albums, as chosen by the XPN Listening…
Doylestown sweethearts Ceramic Animal announced today their upcoming album Sweet Unknown out on March 4th. With the announcement comes the record’s first single, title…
Ceramic Animal signs to Easy Eye Sound, announces Dan Auerbach-produced album, shares title track “Sweet Unknown”
Doylestown sweethearts Ceramic Animal announced today their upcoming album Sweet Unknown out on March 4th. With the announcement comes the record’s first single, title…
Not to be confused with the jam band Goose. Geese recently released its debut album, Projector.
Geese | WXPN Artist To Watch – December 2021
Not to be confused with the jam band Goose. Geese recently released its debut album, Projector.
Philly indie rockers The Vernes packed the house at Johnny Brenda’s a couple weekends ago, but most of their primary players are also making…
Number One Lovers forge an unholy alliance in the “Livin'” video
Philly indie rockers The Vernes packed the house at Johnny Brenda’s a couple weekends ago, but most of their primary players are also making…
Screaming Females frontperson Marissa Paternoster is releasing her first solo album under her own name this Friday, December 3rd, when Peace Meter comes out…
Marissa Paternoster wanders the fog of loss in the new “Black Hole” video
Screaming Females frontperson Marissa Paternoster is releasing her first solo album under her own name this Friday, December 3rd, when Peace Meter comes out…
Here at XPN, the common thread among the albums we were excited about in 2021 is uncommonality. When the on-air and digital staff was…
WXPN Best of 2021: Albums
Here at XPN, the common thread among the albums we were excited about in 2021 is uncommonality. When the on-air and digital staff was…
It’s always good to see Ron Gallo take the stage in his hometown, and when it’s in front of a full house at World…
Ron Gallo plays a high-energy homecoming set for a holiday weekend Free at Noon
It’s always good to see Ron Gallo take the stage in his hometown, and when it’s in front of a full house at World…
Part of what made and makes hip-hop culture so radical is that it considers, reevaluates, and recontextualizes everything. Whether it’s Jazzy Jay playing records…
Culture Cypher Radio November Chart: A mirror to 50 years of hip-hop with Wu-Tang Clan, Junglepussy, Curly Castro and more
Part of what made and makes hip-hop culture so radical is that it considers, reevaluates, and recontextualizes everything. Whether it’s Jazzy Jay playing records…
The Union Transfer stage was a little crowded Thursday night for the sold-out Dinosaur Jr. show. Three drum sets, a full stack, half stack…
Dinosaur Jr. packs Union Transfer with a sweaty, happy mess of fans
The Union Transfer stage was a little crowded Thursday night for the sold-out Dinosaur Jr. show. Three drum sets, a full stack, half stack…
During an interview on Drink Champs’ Podcast, veteran hip hop artist N.O.R.E. told his guests Raekwon and Ghostface Killah a story about Loud Records…
Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and GZA bring a night of hip-hop classics to Franklin Music Hall
During an interview on Drink Champs’ Podcast, veteran hip hop artist N.O.R.E. told his guests Raekwon and Ghostface Killah a story about Loud Records…
WXPN has the soundtrack to your holiday season. Wherever and however you celebrate, we’ve got a festive programming schedule which you can check out…
XPN’s Holiday Programming Schedule for 2021
WXPN has the soundtrack to your holiday season. Wherever and however you celebrate, we’ve got a festive programming schedule which you can check out…
To coincide with the launch of our Jingle Jams stream (and the general holiday season), please enjoy this special edition of PRESS PLAY, highlighting…
PRESS PLAY Holiday 2021 Special – Merry PRESSmas!
To coincide with the launch of our Jingle Jams stream (and the general holiday season), please enjoy this special edition of PRESS PLAY, highlighting…
Indie rockers Houndmouth filled the floor in front of the World Cafe stage this afternoon for their second performance at XPN’s Free At Noon.…
Houndmouth return to Free At Noon to promote new album <i>Good For You</i>
Indie rockers Houndmouth filled the floor in front of the World Cafe stage this afternoon for their second performance at XPN’s Free At Noon.…
With the new year, World Cafe Live is bringing a new feature into their programming calendar: the seasonal Mixtape residency, where the venue is…
Kingsley Ibeneche will curate World Cafe Live’s first Mixtape residency ft. Ivy Sole, Khemist, Blu3 W3rd and more
With the new year, World Cafe Live is bringing a new feature into their programming calendar: the seasonal Mixtape residency, where the venue is…
“From the time I was a kid, music was it,” says John Stanley. “Whatever has been thrown my way in life, music will always…
The official ‘John’s Dollar Bin’ guide to the best discount record shops in Philly
“From the time I was a kid, music was it,” says John Stanley. “Whatever has been thrown my way in life, music will always…
It’s been almost three years since Knifeplay dropped off the face of the Earth, but the Philadelphia-based band is back and ready to get…
Knifeplay releases spine-chilling new single “Hurt Someone”
It’s been almost three years since Knifeplay dropped off the face of the Earth, but the Philadelphia-based band is back and ready to get…
Wednesday night at the Fillmore I finally got see Billy Strings perform for my first time. This summer especially, there was a lot of…
Philly Strings: Bluegrass phenom Billy Strings plays a sold-out run at the Fillmore
Wednesday night at the Fillmore I finally got see Billy Strings perform for my first time. This summer especially, there was a lot of…
Stray Sparks aims straight for your heart and doesn’t miss. The latest album from The Goodbye Party, it is their most raw and intimate…
The Goodbye Party delivers devastating ambient sounds on new album ‘Stray Sparks’
Stray Sparks aims straight for your heart and doesn’t miss. The latest album from The Goodbye Party, it is their most raw and intimate…
SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE isn’t done with the immersive, otherworldly explorations of ENTERTAINMENT, DEATH, and rightfully so. The Philadelphia-based band has announced a 7”…
SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE will give you an out-of-body experience on their new 7″
SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE isn’t done with the immersive, otherworldly explorations of ENTERTAINMENT, DEATH, and rightfully so. The Philadelphia-based band has announced a 7”…
The first time I heard My Bloody Valentine, I was a junior in high school. As a pre-teen, I saw the cultural explosion of…
A Rush of Noise and Feeling: Reflections on My Bloody Valentine’s ‘Loveless’
The first time I heard My Bloody Valentine, I was a junior in high school. As a pre-teen, I saw the cultural explosion of…
Curse Reverser sews together haunted memories on their latest single, “Recipe Book.” The song is the final release from their upcoming album, Paper Dinner, which will…
Curse Reverser drop final single “Recipe Book” ahead of new album Paper Dinner out 11/12
Curse Reverser sews together haunted memories on their latest single, “Recipe Book.” The song is the final release from their upcoming album, Paper Dinner, which will…
What happens when, as an artist, you fulfill the loftiest of goals for commercial success? What comes next after you win the accolades of…
Anticipation for Mitski’s 2022 album <i>Laurel Hell</i> reaches all-time high, watch new video for “The Only Heartbreaker”
What happens when, as an artist, you fulfill the loftiest of goals for commercial success? What comes next after you win the accolades of…
Joining us in the studio for this Indie Rock Hit Parade live session is… well, let me pause and ruminate for a moment on…
Indie Rock Hit Parade Live Session: Mac McCaughan
Joining us in the studio for this Indie Rock Hit Parade live session is… well, let me pause and ruminate for a moment on…
This fall, the XPN community will hear a new voice in the mix that’s very familiar to radio listeners in Philly. Wendy Rollins is…
Five reasons Wendy Rollins is excited to return to Philly on the XPN airwaves
This fall, the XPN community will hear a new voice in the mix that’s very familiar to radio listeners in Philly. Wendy Rollins is…
Empath make it impossible to take your eyes off of the music video for their new single, “Diamond Eyelids.” Offbeat and slightly out there,…
Empath announces new album ‘Visitor’ with new single “Diamond Eyelids” and an off-kilter music video
Empath make it impossible to take your eyes off of the music video for their new single, “Diamond Eyelids.” Offbeat and slightly out there,…
Spitfire Philly rapper Queen Jo is back with a kinetic visual for her latest single, “Feast.”
Watch Queen Jo’s hypnotic video for “Feast”
Spitfire Philly rapper Queen Jo is back with a kinetic visual for her latest single, “Feast.”
Tank And The Bangas are here to contribute to the torrent of Spring tour news today, with the announcement of a string of dates.…
Tank And The Bangas announce spring 2022 tour with a stop at Union Transfer
Tank And The Bangas are here to contribute to the torrent of Spring tour news today, with the announcement of a string of dates.…
Marissa Paternoster’s latest album, Peace Meter, was written in her deceased grandmother’s house during a worldwide pandemic. However, despite the eerie circumstances it was penned under,…
Marissa Paternoster releases apprehensive second-single “I Lost You” from her upcoming album Peace Meter
Marissa Paternoster’s latest album, Peace Meter, was written in her deceased grandmother’s house during a worldwide pandemic. However, despite the eerie circumstances it was penned under,…
Caracara find themselves buried under the stress of modern life on their latest release, “Hyacinth.” After almost two years of writing and recording, the…
Caracara face down an identity crisis in new single and video “Hyacinth”
Caracara find themselves buried under the stress of modern life on their latest release, “Hyacinth.” After almost two years of writing and recording, the…
The Flaming Lips kicked off tour in support of their new album American Head at The Fillmore Philadelphia Sunday night. The first leg of…
The Flaming Lips kicked off the ‘American Head’ tour with psychedelic displays, inflatable rainbows, glowing birds and giant robots
The Flaming Lips kicked off tour in support of their new album American Head at The Fillmore Philadelphia Sunday night. The first leg of…
In celebration of the ways music keeps us connected, the second annual Public Radio Music Day returns this Wednesday, November 10th, and WXPN is…
Celebrate Public Radio Music Day with WXPN, WRTI, and our member community
In celebration of the ways music keeps us connected, the second annual Public Radio Music Day returns this Wednesday, November 10th, and WXPN is…
There’s nothing easy about Joni Mitchell’s music. It’s compositionally complex with unique tunings, unusual chord changes, and arrangements that range from minimal to massive.…
Brandi Carlile and friends rise to the challenge of playing Joni Mitchell’s ‘Blue’ at Carnegie Hall
There’s nothing easy about Joni Mitchell’s music. It’s compositionally complex with unique tunings, unusual chord changes, and arrangements that range from minimal to massive.…
“We were not expecting all of you,” joked James Everhart at a break during Cosmic Guilt‘s Free at Noon concert. “I would have made…
Cosmic Guilt packs the stage and the house at Free at Noon
“We were not expecting all of you,” joked James Everhart at a break during Cosmic Guilt‘s Free at Noon concert. “I would have made…
One of the most magical things about independent music is the community it fosters. The friendships that come from a shared adoration of certain…
Be Part of the Solution: How ‘Safe x Sound’ documentary hopes to make a better showgoing culture
One of the most magical things about independent music is the community it fosters. The friendships that come from a shared adoration of certain…
No doubt climate change has been on the minds of many Philadelphians recently. It won’t be easy to forget the image of I-76 flooded…
West Philadelphia Orchestra advocates for climate change relief in Philly on new song “Ancestors”
No doubt climate change has been on the minds of many Philadelphians recently. It won’t be easy to forget the image of I-76 flooded…
If you’ve never been on the beach in the winter, it is secluded and serene and quite contemplative; the ideal vibes to experience Lansdowne…
Kurt Vile is playing Atlantic City’s Anchor Rock Club in January
If you’ve never been on the beach in the winter, it is secluded and serene and quite contemplative; the ideal vibes to experience Lansdowne…
After breaking up with her old moniker, Kristine Leschper (FKA Mothers), has tunnel vision on love. A step away from the aching of her…
Kristine Leschper releases ornate lead single “Ribbon” from her upcoming album ‘The Opening, Or Closing Of A Door’
After breaking up with her old moniker, Kristine Leschper (FKA Mothers), has tunnel vision on love. A step away from the aching of her…
The song “Follow Me Around” might be the biggest Radiohead hit that never got released…until now.
Watch a new video for a lost Radiohead song, “Follow Me Around”
The song “Follow Me Around” might be the biggest Radiohead hit that never got released…until now.
After seven weeks on the road playing two legs of tour with three bands in 35 cities, Mannequin Pussy are home. The last two…
Mannequin Pussy takes a cathartic victory lap for their sold-out Union Transfer homecoming
After seven weeks on the road playing two legs of tour with three bands in 35 cities, Mannequin Pussy are home. The last two…
Last night, Steely Dan founding member Donald Fagen performed a complex and beautiful set of heady pop and jazz rock with his group of…
“Make tonight a wonderful thing”: Steely Dan plays ‘Aja’ in full and other hits to open its run at The Met
Last night, Steely Dan founding member Donald Fagen performed a complex and beautiful set of heady pop and jazz rock with his group of…
Irreversible Entanglements calls into question everything you know about music. Sonically complex, they take the typical song structure and turn it on its head.…
Irreversible Entanglements release expansive new song “Keys To Creation”
Irreversible Entanglements calls into question everything you know about music. Sonically complex, they take the typical song structure and turn it on its head.…
Weird Philly is going on tour, people. Next spring, one of the city’s most unusual and captivating artists — the punk-rooted psychedelic head trippers…
Spirit of the Beehive and Body Meat are touring together in 2022
Weird Philly is going on tour, people. Next spring, one of the city’s most unusual and captivating artists — the punk-rooted psychedelic head trippers…
Halloween is around the corner, and here at XPN, we’ve got practically three days of programming for your own personal spooky weekend, beginning on…
And now, WXPN’s on-air schedule for your haunted Halloweekend 2021
Halloween is around the corner, and here at XPN, we’ve got practically three days of programming for your own personal spooky weekend, beginning on…
Taylor Kelly is no stranger to self-doubt. On her latest single, “Maybe,” the Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter confronts the never-ending stream of what-if’s that we often…
Taylor Kelly pushes past self-doubt in new music video “Maybe”
Taylor Kelly is no stranger to self-doubt. On her latest single, “Maybe,” the Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter confronts the never-ending stream of what-if’s that we often…
During the pandemic, it often felt like we were living in a vacuum. Isolated from each other, concepts like collaboration and community felt foreign.…
DECOUPLR releases a remixed, reimagined version of their debut ‘Digital Bonfire’ with some help from their friends
During the pandemic, it often felt like we were living in a vacuum. Isolated from each other, concepts like collaboration and community felt foreign.…
Philly pop / rock artist Zo captures the consequences of a whirlwind romance with the wrong person in her new music video “Never Meant.”…
Zo revels in a dangerous romance in new video for “Never Meant”
Philly pop / rock artist Zo captures the consequences of a whirlwind romance with the wrong person in her new music video “Never Meant.”…
From the airing of our first show back in September 2019, the musical programming of Culture Cypher Radio has always had a global focus.…
The Culture Cypher Radio October Chart: A global view with Fela and Femi Kuti, Tom Tom Club, Ahmad Jamal, Seba Kepstaad and more
From the airing of our first show back in September 2019, the musical programming of Culture Cypher Radio has always had a global focus.…
Wrapping up their first leg of tour in support of the new album Parallel Timeline, Boston three-piece Slothrust played to the midday crowd at…
Free at Noon Flashback: Slothrust shows off their stylistic range at World Cafe Live
Wrapping up their first leg of tour in support of the new album Parallel Timeline, Boston three-piece Slothrust played to the midday crowd at…
The annual Philly Music Fest touched down last week, showcasing 20 regional artists in six concerts at five independent venues over the course of…
Scenes from Philly Music Fest 2021
The annual Philly Music Fest touched down last week, showcasing 20 regional artists in six concerts at five independent venues over the course of…
The broadcast of the first live World Cafe on October 14, 1991, could not have been more tense, technologically challenged and different than the…
The First Days of World Cafe
The broadcast of the first live World Cafe on October 14, 1991, could not have been more tense, technologically challenged and different than the…
I first encountered the music of singer-songwriter Dante Robinson last spring, when he was a clear standout amid a flurry of Bandcamp Friday recommendations.…
The Key Studio Sessions: Dante Robinson and The It’s Lit Family Band
I first encountered the music of singer-songwriter Dante Robinson last spring, when he was a clear standout amid a flurry of Bandcamp Friday recommendations.…
When singer Jeremy Keys delivered lyrics about the need to keep on running in “Prefontaine,” it seemed to be a metaphor for facing the…
Keys & The Never Before’s heart-stopping “Prefontane” video is a nightmare in Wynnewood
When singer Jeremy Keys delivered lyrics about the need to keep on running in “Prefontaine,” it seemed to be a metaphor for facing the…
At this point, it seems like there’s nothing Shamir can’t do. Following the release of his self-titled album in 2020, the multi-disciplinary artist has…
Shamir’s new single “Gay Agenda” is empowering and unapologetic
At this point, it seems like there’s nothing Shamir can’t do. Following the release of his self-titled album in 2020, the multi-disciplinary artist has…
Age may be just a number, but Travis is determined to make the 20 year anniversary of their 9x certified Platinum album, The Invisible…
Travis touring for the 20th anniversary of ‘The Invisible Band,’ playing The Keswick in 2022
Age may be just a number, but Travis is determined to make the 20 year anniversary of their 9x certified Platinum album, The Invisible…
Tuesday evening, The Marcus King Band rocked The Queen in Wilmington for a sold-out night of Americana, rock n blues, and especially impressive solos…
King of The Queen: Marcus King Band delivers a sold out show in Wilmington
Tuesday evening, The Marcus King Band rocked The Queen in Wilmington for a sold-out night of Americana, rock n blues, and especially impressive solos…
“We’re back!” shouted Dan Reed at the top of today’s Free at Noon — XPN’s first in-person midday concert in 574 days — and…
An explosive Heartless Bastards set marks the return to in-person Free at Noon
“We’re back!” shouted Dan Reed at the top of today’s Free at Noon — XPN’s first in-person midday concert in 574 days — and…
Today Japanese Breakfast shared a live in-studio video for “Better the Mask,” a song from frontperson Michelle Zauner’s score for Sable, an open world…
Watch Japanese Breakfast perform “Better the Mask,” her favorite song from Sable score
Today Japanese Breakfast shared a live in-studio video for “Better the Mask,” a song from frontperson Michelle Zauner’s score for Sable, an open world…
Porchestfest is back in Lambertville, NJ on October 2nd. The DIY music festival, which has spread to over 100 cities including Philadelphia, features musicians…
Porchfest comes to Lambertville, NJ this weekend
Porchestfest is back in Lambertville, NJ on October 2nd. The DIY music festival, which has spread to over 100 cities including Philadelphia, features musicians…
No one is more fitting to help The Met ease back into live music than Bob Dylan. The folk-rock icon was the first act…
Bob Dylan will play back-to-back shows at The Met in November
No one is more fitting to help The Met ease back into live music than Bob Dylan. The folk-rock icon was the first act…
Tool are ready to finish what they started, according to lead singer Maynard James Keenan. The band has announced a sweeping 2022 tour throughout…
Tool will headline Wells Fargo Center in 2022
Tool are ready to finish what they started, according to lead singer Maynard James Keenan. The band has announced a sweeping 2022 tour throughout…
The last day of Firefly was a long haul, starting out in the noon hour and going all the way through to midnight. I…
Firefly On The Fly: Ending on a day four high with Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion, Sofi Tukker, Orion Sun and more
The last day of Firefly was a long haul, starting out in the noon hour and going all the way through to midnight. I…
Philly-rooted singer-songwriter Amos Lee returns next year with his seventh studio album, Dreamland, due out February 11th on Dualtone. According to the label, the…
Amos Lee announces new album ‘Dreamland’, 2022 tour coming to The Met; listen to “Shoulda Known Better”
Philly-rooted singer-songwriter Amos Lee returns next year with his seventh studio album, Dreamland, due out February 11th on Dualtone. According to the label, the…
Saturday at Governor’s Ball Music Festival at Citi Field in Queens, NYC, gave us sets from Phoebe Bridgers, Big Thief, Bleachers, and more. Avi…
Governor’s Ball Day Two: Phoebe Bridgers, Big Thief, Bleachers, and more
Saturday at Governor’s Ball Music Festival at Citi Field in Queens, NYC, gave us sets from Phoebe Bridgers, Big Thief, Bleachers, and more. Avi…
Knowing that closing day at Firefly Music Festival would be a wall to wall long day, day three was taken at a consciously leisurely…
Firefly On The Fly: Pacing ourselves on day three with Tame Impala, Khruangbin, Caroline Polachek and more
Knowing that closing day at Firefly Music Festival would be a wall to wall long day, day three was taken at a consciously leisurely…
Because of the rain delay, I only caught five artists on opening day of Firefly 2021. If that seemed a bit light, day two…
Firefly On The Fly: The Killers, Sylvan Esso, Arlo Parks and more make day two a hit-parade
Because of the rain delay, I only caught five artists on opening day of Firefly 2021. If that seemed a bit light, day two…
It’s back! Free at Noon returns in-person this week as Heartless Bastards will play live on stage at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia.
In-person Free at Noon concerts return next week with a show starring Heartless Bastards
It’s back! Free at Noon returns in-person this week as Heartless Bastards will play live on stage at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia.
According to an alert sent out to the Firefly Music Festival app before last night’s headlining set from Billie Eilish, it had been 823.7…
Firefly On The Fly: Billie Eilish, Phoebe Bridgers and more bring warmth to a damp day one
According to an alert sent out to the Firefly Music Festival app before last night’s headlining set from Billie Eilish, it had been 823.7…
The end of another month brings another strong batch of new albums. I’ll Be Your Mirror is a full-length cover of the Velvet Underground’s…
PRESS PLAY: 8 New Albums out September 24th!
The end of another month brings another strong batch of new albums. I’ll Be Your Mirror is a full-length cover of the Velvet Underground’s…
Somehow it’s possible for a sold-out headlining show to feel incredibly intimate as well as larger than life at the same time, and Phoebe…
The universal catharsis of seeing Phoebe Bridgers at The Mann’s Skyline Stage
Somehow it’s possible for a sold-out headlining show to feel incredibly intimate as well as larger than life at the same time, and Phoebe…
“We’ve been at home for a couple years like everybody else,” Cary Ann Hearst told the River Stage crowd at XPNFest. “And we wrote…
Shovels and Rope plays off into the sunset for a gritty XPNFest finale
“We’ve been at home for a couple years like everybody else,” Cary Ann Hearst told the River Stage crowd at XPNFest. “And we wrote…
Nicole Atkins closed out the Marina stage tonight with a slow burn of a set. The perfect way to end the weekend, the Jersey-born…
Nicole Atkins closes the XPNFest Marina stage with an otherworldly performance
Nicole Atkins closed out the Marina stage tonight with a slow burn of a set. The perfect way to end the weekend, the Jersey-born…
If there had to be an encore set by any artist from Saturday evening on Sunday, XPoNential’s audience is sure glad it was high-energy…
2021’s XPNFest saw Cimafunk play not one, but two show-stopping sets
If there had to be an encore set by any artist from Saturday evening on Sunday, XPoNential’s audience is sure glad it was high-energy…
Jade Bird made it very clear she’s had her heart broken and lived to tell the tale during her performance at the Marina stage…
Jade Bird made heartbreak fun at XPNFest’s Marina Stage
Jade Bird made it very clear she’s had her heart broken and lived to tell the tale during her performance at the Marina stage…
“He’s come home to visit,” said World Cafe‘s Raina Douris to introduce Devon Gilfillian on the XPoNential Music Festival River Stage. “And he’s bringing…
Devon Gilfillian radiates hope for a better world on the XPNFest River Stage
“He’s come home to visit,” said World Cafe‘s Raina Douris to introduce Devon Gilfillian on the XPoNential Music Festival River Stage. “And he’s bringing…
Of all the things to appreciate about music, one of the most remarkable is its ability to transport the listener to another place and…
XPN Artist to Watch Sierra Ferrell brought new wave country to Camden
Of all the things to appreciate about music, one of the most remarkable is its ability to transport the listener to another place and…
Tommy Conwell is in a time loop, and he’s totally good with that. The veteran Philly rocker took to the River Stage on day…
Tommy Conwell stans the 80s on the XPNFest River Stage
Tommy Conwell is in a time loop, and he’s totally good with that. The veteran Philly rocker took to the River Stage on day…
If you’ve ever drunkenly called your ex up crying, Anna Shoemaker has got a song for you. Her not-so sober confessionals sound like the…
Anna Shoemaker starts day three of XPNFest with an intimate set at the Marina stage
If you’ve ever drunkenly called your ex up crying, Anna Shoemaker has got a song for you. Her not-so sober confessionals sound like the…
A beautiful end to another beautiful night, Tedeschi Trucks Band sent their homespun blend of blues and soul into the far reaches of BB&T…
Tedeschi Trucks Band and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong deliver jams and excitement at XPNFest’s headlining Saturday show
A beautiful end to another beautiful night, Tedeschi Trucks Band sent their homespun blend of blues and soul into the far reaches of BB&T…
After a few positive COVID-19 test results came back late Saturday before a show in Boston, Dawes has canceled their appearance at #XPNFest. We…
Dawes cancels XPoNential appearance due to COVID; Cimafunk will play an encore set
After a few positive COVID-19 test results came back late Saturday before a show in Boston, Dawes has canceled their appearance at #XPNFest. We…
As she took the stage with the sun setting behind the River Stage, folk icon Ani DiFranco took a moment to appreciate something of…
Ani DiFranco closes the XPNFest River Stage with a contemplative, charismatic, career-spanning set
As she took the stage with the sun setting behind the River Stage, folk icon Ani DiFranco took a moment to appreciate something of…
As soon as Christone “Kingfish” Ingram took the stage, the crowd was on their feet. They knew what they were in for — Kingfish…
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram pulls out all the stops yet again on the XPoNential Marina Stage
As soon as Christone “Kingfish” Ingram took the stage, the crowd was on their feet. They knew what they were in for — Kingfish…
There hasn’t been a bad show yet and I don’t anticipate there will be all weekend but let’s face it, the Strand Of Oaks…
Strand of Oaks makes an emotional return to the XPNFest River Stage
There hasn’t been a bad show yet and I don’t anticipate there will be all weekend but let’s face it, the Strand Of Oaks…
Adia Victoria and her band took the Marina Stage in style: coordinated Nudie suit attire with embroidered flowers and fringe, and a story about…
Adia Victoria brings ‘A Southern Gothic’ to the XPNFest Marina Stage
Adia Victoria and her band took the Marina Stage in style: coordinated Nudie suit attire with embroidered flowers and fringe, and a story about…
You might not know who Cimafunk is, but they’re going to change your life. The Cuba-based singer’s River stage set with his expansive band…
Cimafunk delivers a transformative River Stage set at day two of XPNFest
You might not know who Cimafunk is, but they’re going to change your life. The Cuba-based singer’s River stage set with his expansive band…
In the middle of the afternoon on Saturday, Michaela Anne and her band took the Marina Stage at XPoNential Festival, and it was a…
Michaela Anne showcases country storytelling at its best on the XPNFest Marina Stage
In the middle of the afternoon on Saturday, Michaela Anne and her band took the Marina Stage at XPoNential Festival, and it was a…
Paul Beaubrun knew the assignment. If you are going to perform early on the second day of the XPoNential Festival, you have one job…
Paul Beaubrun gets the River Stage on their feet at XPNFest
Paul Beaubrun knew the assignment. If you are going to perform early on the second day of the XPoNential Festival, you have one job…
Great Time delivered exactly what their name promised earlier today on the Marina stage. The perfect way to set the tone for the day,…
Great Time obliterate the XPNFest Marina stage with funky and fun set
Great Time delivered exactly what their name promised earlier today on the Marina stage. The perfect way to set the tone for the day,…
There’s something special about the first-band-of-the-day slot at XPoNential Music Festival. Yours is the music that greets the audience as they make their way…
Stella Ruze greets the day with an opening River Stage set at XPNFest
There’s something special about the first-band-of-the-day slot at XPoNential Music Festival. Yours is the music that greets the audience as they make their way…
The 2021 XPoNential Music Festival is under way, and in addition to great sets from Los Lobos, Cory Henry, Arthur Thomas and the Funkitorium, and more,…
Behind the Scenes at #XPNFest 2021!
The 2021 XPoNential Music Festival is under way, and in addition to great sets from Los Lobos, Cory Henry, Arthur Thomas and the Funkitorium, and more,…
Los Angeles legends Los Lobos are masters of their craft. Sure, it can be it can be exhilarating to watch young musicians discover themselves…
Los Lobos spans eras and genres in a grand finale for night one of XPNFest
Los Angeles legends Los Lobos are masters of their craft. Sure, it can be it can be exhilarating to watch young musicians discover themselves…
Cory Henry wants you to tell everybody about their new album Best of Me. Teasing the crowd last night he asked “how many bodies?” To which…
Cory Henry radiates pure joy at the XPoNential Music Festival Marina Stage
Cory Henry wants you to tell everybody about their new album Best of Me. Teasing the crowd last night he asked “how many bodies?” To which…
Los Angeles rock outfit The Record Company are three-year returning XPoNential Music Festival vets, and they’ve grown (pardon the pun) exponentially since we first…
The Record Company flexes their versatility on the XPNFest River Stage
Los Angeles rock outfit The Record Company are three-year returning XPoNential Music Festival vets, and they’ve grown (pardon the pun) exponentially since we first…
After a few technical difficulties, Sofía Valdés made her XPNFest performance worth the wait. When she finally reached the Marina stage, the crowd went…
Sofía Valdés brings her breezy bossa nova to night one of XPoNential Music Fest
After a few technical difficulties, Sofía Valdés made her XPNFest performance worth the wait. When she finally reached the Marina stage, the crowd went…
I’m not sure what a Funkitorium is exactly, but if Arthur Thomas and his band are any indication, it consists of eight wildly talented…
Arthur Thomas and the Funkitorium brings a full-on dance party to the XPNFest River Stage
I’m not sure what a Funkitorium is exactly, but if Arthur Thomas and his band are any indication, it consists of eight wildly talented…
“We’re the first band, on the first stage, on the first day. We love that,” said Danielle Johnson, frontperson of Hoochi Coochi at the…
Hoochi Coochi kicks off XPoNential 2021 at the Marina Stage
“We’re the first band, on the first stage, on the first day. We love that,” said Danielle Johnson, frontperson of Hoochi Coochi at the…
Philly rapper Meek Mill will release his fifth studio album, Expensive Pain, on October 1st.
Meek Mill’s next album, ‘Expensive Pain,’ is out next month
Philly rapper Meek Mill will release his fifth studio album, Expensive Pain, on October 1st.
30 years ago this month — on September 24th, 1991 — two albums released on the exact same day would have a significant impact…
Culture Cypher Radio September Chart: On ‘Nevermind’ and ‘The Low End Theory,’ plus Little Simz, DJ Shadow and more
30 years ago this month — on September 24th, 1991 — two albums released on the exact same day would have a significant impact…
When the world began tentatively re-opening this spring, Philly four-piece Grocer was hungry to bring their brawling Pixies-esque indie rock on the road. They…
Watch Grocer totally crush their Audiotree Live set
When the world began tentatively re-opening this spring, Philly four-piece Grocer was hungry to bring their brawling Pixies-esque indie rock on the road. They…
Multifaceted musician Emyne is a singer, songwriter, poet, rapper, activist, and generally charismatic presence on the local scene. After first catching our attention at…
Emyne offers advice and introspection on new project ’21-keep it.’
Multifaceted musician Emyne is a singer, songwriter, poet, rapper, activist, and generally charismatic presence on the local scene. After first catching our attention at…
Philly punk-adjacent four-piece Rid Of Me has been in slow burn mode since launching in late 2019. Initially a source of reliably awesome demos…
Rid of Me embraces their truest form on “Myself” from new album ‘Traveling’
Philly punk-adjacent four-piece Rid Of Me has been in slow burn mode since launching in late 2019. Initially a source of reliably awesome demos…
The packed Met was my first (big) show in 18 months, and it was sensory overload on many levels. A physical vaccination card or…
Jason Isbell and Kathleen Edwards make a formidable return to Philly at The Met
The packed Met was my first (big) show in 18 months, and it was sensory overload on many levels. A physical vaccination card or…
I met producer N Dot in 2018 when he and my good friend James Weldon came together to create The Artistry Collective Studios. I’ve…
Welcome To The Locals: N Dot of The Funkitorium
I met producer N Dot in 2018 when he and my good friend James Weldon came together to create The Artistry Collective Studios. I’ve…
Adia Victoria‘s latest album A Southern Gothic drops on Friday, she plays the XPoNential Music Festival this weekend, and today she released one last…
Listen to Adia Victoria cover “You Was Born To Die” with Jason Isbell, Margo Price and Kyshona Armstrong
Adia Victoria‘s latest album A Southern Gothic drops on Friday, she plays the XPoNential Music Festival this weekend, and today she released one last…
Philly-based singer-songwriter Hayley Ellison caught our attention last year with I’ll Wait Till I Learn, a home-recorded collection we described at the time as…
Hayley Ellison is lost in love on “The Pillow Song”
Philly-based singer-songwriter Hayley Ellison caught our attention last year with I’ll Wait Till I Learn, a home-recorded collection we described at the time as…
It’s been a long winding road since Wiggins Park and BB&T Pavilion were last packed with fans and artists enjoying the very best weekend…
#XPNFest Guide: The 2021 XPoNential Music Festival is poised to bring a wonderful weekend of live music the Camden Waterfront
It’s been a long winding road since Wiggins Park and BB&T Pavilion were last packed with fans and artists enjoying the very best weekend…
The latest in the Musicale video series by Philly music tastemakers upandovr is singer-songwriter Erin Fox, performing “Very Far” from her album Fuzzy Logic…
Watch Erin Fox perform “Very Far” for upandovr’s Musicale series
The latest in the Musicale video series by Philly music tastemakers upandovr is singer-songwriter Erin Fox, performing “Very Far” from her album Fuzzy Logic…
Despite the icy title, “Snowbird” is one of the warmest songs you’ve heard in a while. The latest single from Mo Lowda & The…
Listen to Mo Lowda & The Humble’s warm new single “Snowbird”
Despite the icy title, “Snowbird” is one of the warmest songs you’ve heard in a while. The latest single from Mo Lowda & The…
Elison Jackson makes a small town seem surreal in the psychedelic-inspired video for “Trashman.” The song is one of seven from their debut album,…
Elison Jackson wanders around a cosmic town in new “Trashman” video
Elison Jackson makes a small town seem surreal in the psychedelic-inspired video for “Trashman.” The song is one of seven from their debut album,…
On September 9th, 21-year-old singer-songwriter Arlo Parks won the Hyundai Mercury Prize for her 2021 full length album, Collapsed in Sunbeams. The prize, which…
XPN Artist to Watch Arlo Parks wins The Mercury Prize 2021
On September 9th, 21-year-old singer-songwriter Arlo Parks won the Hyundai Mercury Prize for her 2021 full length album, Collapsed in Sunbeams. The prize, which…
Philly-born space rockers The War on Drugs are readying the release of their fifth album I Don’t Live Here Anymore, and last night they…
Watch The War on Drugs play “Living Proof” on Colbert
Philly-born space rockers The War on Drugs are readying the release of their fifth album I Don’t Live Here Anymore, and last night they…
We’re nine days and counting away from the in-person return of the XPoNential Music Festival, which brings Dawes, Strand of Oaks, Ani DiFranco, Los…
Your XPoNential Music Festival 2021 set times are here.
We’re nine days and counting away from the in-person return of the XPoNential Music Festival, which brings Dawes, Strand of Oaks, Ani DiFranco, Los…
Their new album Pressure Machine is intimate and introspective, so it makes sense that Las Vegas modern rockers The Killers are warming up for…
The Killers will warm up for Firefly with an intimate gig at Franklin Music Hall
Their new album Pressure Machine is intimate and introspective, so it makes sense that Las Vegas modern rockers The Killers are warming up for…
Some midafternoon rain hit Philly and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway this Sunday, but Bobby Shmurda used it to his advantage. The Miami rapper was…
Made In America Day Two: Doja Cat, Lil Durk, Tinashe, Bobby Shmurda bring the party to the Parkway
Some midafternoon rain hit Philly and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway this Sunday, but Bobby Shmurda used it to his advantage. The Miami rapper was…
Saturday was the return of Jay-Z’s Made In America festival, bringing a packed day of hip-hop, pop, EDM and more to the Benjamin Franklin…
Made In America Day One: Lil Baby, Megan Thee Stallion, Young Thug, a Meek Mill surprise and more
Saturday was the return of Jay-Z’s Made In America festival, bringing a packed day of hip-hop, pop, EDM and more to the Benjamin Franklin…
Two leading Philly MCs meld their singular styles and shared love of action in the new music video for “Blue Notes 2.” The star…
Watch Meek Mill and Lil Uzi Vert team up in the action-packed “Blue Notes 2” video
Two leading Philly MCs meld their singular styles and shared love of action in the new music video for “Blue Notes 2.” The star…
Regional instrument retailer Russo Music will formally open the doors to its new Philly location later this month, after teasing the shop’s homey interior…
Russo Music’s grand opening includes a gear raffle to benefit Girls Rock Philly, Beyond The Bars and more
Regional instrument retailer Russo Music will formally open the doors to its new Philly location later this month, after teasing the shop’s homey interior…
This was supposed to be the Skeleton Key where I told everybody about how great it was to go to a real show inside…
The Skeleton Key: September brings the return of Johnny Brenda’s with Birds of Maya, new punk and jazz releases, shows all over the city, and more
This was supposed to be the Skeleton Key where I told everybody about how great it was to go to a real show inside…
Singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves returns in a couple weeks with the late-summer release of her fourth album, star-crossed. It’s due out September 10th on Interscope…
Kacey Musgraves will play Wells Fargo Center in 2022; listen to two songs from ‘star-crossed’
Singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves returns in a couple weeks with the late-summer release of her fourth album, star-crossed. It’s due out September 10th on Interscope…
This week’s Throwback Thursday flashes back to a year that was a total odyssey…
This week it’s 2001: a #TBTXPN odyssey
This week’s Throwback Thursday flashes back to a year that was a total odyssey…
Covering any band is intimidating, let alone one as iconic as the Velvet Underground. However, Courtney Barnett does so effortlessly as she completely reimagines…
Courtney Barnett covers “I’ll Be Your Mirror” for the upcoming Velvet Underground tribute album
Covering any band is intimidating, let alone one as iconic as the Velvet Underground. However, Courtney Barnett does so effortlessly as she completely reimagines…
She’s a two-time GRAMMY winner, with a new album on the way in October, and recently earned recognition as the Female Songwriter of the Year for…
Two-time GRAMMY winner Natalie Hemby Performs live, Virtual Free At Noon Concert
She’s a two-time GRAMMY winner, with a new album on the way in October, and recently earned recognition as the Female Songwriter of the Year for…
Icon Patti Smith, who needs little introduction, released new music on August 26th as part of Spotify and Electric Lady Studio’s series of live…
Patti Smith releases new solo recording Live at Electric Lady
Icon Patti Smith, who needs little introduction, released new music on August 26th as part of Spotify and Electric Lady Studio’s series of live…
My Morning Jacket wants people to tune in, not to their phones but to the world around them. Tired of how out of touch…
My Morning Jacket encourages you to drop all distractions on their new single “Regularly Scheduled Programing”
My Morning Jacket wants people to tune in, not to their phones but to the world around them. Tired of how out of touch…
After almost a decade of working with the Philly hip-hop collective, Hardwork Movement, Jeremy Keys is breaking out on his own with his new…
Jeremy Keys makes his chilled-out solo debut on Displaced Vol. 1
After almost a decade of working with the Philly hip-hop collective, Hardwork Movement, Jeremy Keys is breaking out on his own with his new…
Musicians and fans alike are remembering Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, who passed away today at the age of 80. XPN’s Eric Schuman spoke…
Jon Wurster (Superchunk, the Mountain Goats) on The Rolling Stones’ Charlie Watts
Musicians and fans alike are remembering Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, who passed away today at the age of 80. XPN’s Eric Schuman spoke…
While the Ancient Greeks had six forms of love, Zo only has three “lustful, forbidden, and hopeless,” according to her website. After a three-year…
Zo releases dangerous debut single “Never Meant”
While the Ancient Greeks had six forms of love, Zo only has three “lustful, forbidden, and hopeless,” according to her website. After a three-year…
Past Life recreates your worst nightmare in their new video “Two Wolves.” Complete with masked figures and a slightly satanic ritual, it has all…
Past Life recreates your nightmare in their new video “Two Wolves”
Past Life recreates your worst nightmare in their new video “Two Wolves.” Complete with masked figures and a slightly satanic ritual, it has all…
With about four weeks left until the start of XPoNential Music Festival, WXPN announces its COVID-19 Health Policy and Entry Requirements for attendees age 12 and…
XPoNential Music Festival issues new safety protocols and entry requirements
With about four weeks left until the start of XPoNential Music Festival, WXPN announces its COVID-19 Health Policy and Entry Requirements for attendees age 12 and…
“Oh my god, what a beautiful moon tonight,” Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong told the crowd during the interlude of “Boulevard of Broken…
The Hella Mega Tour brought chaos and celebration to Philadelphia – Green Day, Weezer, and more
“Oh my god, what a beautiful moon tonight,” Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong told the crowd during the interlude of “Boulevard of Broken…
Alt-country legends Wilco with special guests, punk rockers Sleater-Kinney, played to a full house at The Mann Center on August 22nd. Welcomed by WXPN,…
Wilco and Sleater-Kinney give highly-anticipated performance at The Mann
Alt-country legends Wilco with special guests, punk rockers Sleater-Kinney, played to a full house at The Mann Center on August 22nd. Welcomed by WXPN,…
Phoebe Bridgers has announced her “Reunion Tour” with a stop in Philadelphia on Wednesday, September 22nd at The Skyline Stage at The Mann. Tickets…
Phoebe Bridgers playing the Skyline Stage at the Mann in September
Phoebe Bridgers has announced her “Reunion Tour” with a stop in Philadelphia on Wednesday, September 22nd at The Skyline Stage at The Mann. Tickets…
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a celebration of self-titled albums. Naming your album after yourself isn’t just an exercise in vanity, it’s a great…
We’re all about self-titled albums on #TBTXPN this week
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a celebration of self-titled albums. Naming your album after yourself isn’t just an exercise in vanity, it’s a great…
Saturday, August 21st was another incredible evening for live music in Philadelphia, and a memorable one for all Dead Heads at Citizens Bank Park.…
Dead & Company transforms Citizens Bank Park into a giant pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
Saturday, August 21st was another incredible evening for live music in Philadelphia, and a memorable one for all Dead Heads at Citizens Bank Park.…
XPN favorites Dawes are a band more closely connected to the Los Angeles singer-songwriter rock scene and the music of Jackson Browne than the…
Watch Dawes perform two Black Sabbath classics
XPN favorites Dawes are a band more closely connected to the Los Angeles singer-songwriter rock scene and the music of Jackson Browne than the…
When writing about the April 2021 episode of Culture Cypher Radio, I talked a lot about tradition and how tradition informs my work as…
Culture Cypher Radio August Chart: The power of tradition from James Brown to Siah & Yeshua
When writing about the April 2021 episode of Culture Cypher Radio, I talked a lot about tradition and how tradition informs my work as…
Next week, it’s another virtual Free at Noon with a rock and roll legend: Billy Idol.
The legendary Billy Idol joins us for a virtual Free at Noon next week
Next week, it’s another virtual Free at Noon with a rock and roll legend: Billy Idol.
It’s difficult to pinpoint Philadelphia’s Great Time to any one genre, and that’s the way they like it. On August 19th, GREAT TIME released…
Great Time’s “80z Slo Jam” video tears the music industry to shreds
It’s difficult to pinpoint Philadelphia’s Great Time to any one genre, and that’s the way they like it. On August 19th, GREAT TIME released…
Bleary Eyed’s Guise is a dense and challenging release that Nathaniel Salfi says came from “a period of intense change” during his quarantine. Out…
Bleary Eyed chops up shoegaze, fuzz pop and more on <em>Guise</em>, out now on Julia’s War
Bleary Eyed’s Guise is a dense and challenging release that Nathaniel Salfi says came from “a period of intense change” during his quarantine. Out…
A re-imagined version of Woody Guthrie’s 1940 album Dust Bowl Ballads be out September 10 via Elektra Records. The album, called Home In This World:…
Waxahatchee covers “Talking Dust Bowl Blues” for a tribute to Woody Guthrie’s ‘Dust Bowl Ballads’
A re-imagined version of Woody Guthrie’s 1940 album Dust Bowl Ballads be out September 10 via Elektra Records. The album, called Home In This World:…
Go WILD on this week’s Throwback Thursday. We’re taking a musical romp through the animal kingdom. We’ll encounter lions, and tigers, and bears, oh…
Take a musical journey through the animal kingdom on the ‘Animal Trackers’ #TBTXPN
Go WILD on this week’s Throwback Thursday. We’re taking a musical romp through the animal kingdom. We’ll encounter lions, and tigers, and bears, oh…
This week, Maxwell Stern released his newest EP, Teeth of a Key. The Signals Midwest frontman has been writing music and touring since the…
Maxwell Stern releases new EP, announces South Philly live show
This week, Maxwell Stern released his newest EP, Teeth of a Key. The Signals Midwest frontman has been writing music and touring since the…
From Favorite Gentleman studios in Atlanta, Georgia, Manchester Orchestra plays live for us on Free at Noon next Friday, August 20th.
Manchester Orchestra joins us from Atlanta for our next virtual Free at Noon
From Favorite Gentleman studios in Atlanta, Georgia, Manchester Orchestra plays live for us on Free at Noon next Friday, August 20th.
On a recent afternoon, Philadelphia songwriter and beatmaker Kilamanzego strolled the sunlight-dappled streets of her West Philadelphia neighborhood, and the results are a music…
Kilamanzego searches for peace of mind in a West Philly sunset in the “Meditate” video
On a recent afternoon, Philadelphia songwriter and beatmaker Kilamanzego strolled the sunlight-dappled streets of her West Philadelphia neighborhood, and the results are a music…
Just a couple weeks out from its planned “Pocket-Sized” weekend at Spring Mountain, the Philadelphia Folksong Society has cancelled the in-person edition of the…
Philadelphia Folk Festival cancels its in-person “Pocket-Sized” edition, will present a virtual fest instead
Just a couple weeks out from its planned “Pocket-Sized” weekend at Spring Mountain, the Philadelphia Folksong Society has cancelled the in-person edition of the…
As Japanese Breakfast brings their historic run of five consecutive sold-out Union Transfer shows to a close, fans everywhere can tune in as WXPN…
Listen to Japanese Breakfast’s final night at Union Transfer broadcast live on WXPN
As Japanese Breakfast brings their historic run of five consecutive sold-out Union Transfer shows to a close, fans everywhere can tune in as WXPN…
Most people only dream about meeting their idols, let alone performing for them. However, for Brandi Carlile, her fantasy became a reality when Joni…
Brandi Carlile will perform Joni Mitchell’s iconic ‘Blue’ at Carnegie Hall
Most people only dream about meeting their idols, let alone performing for them. However, for Brandi Carlile, her fantasy became a reality when Joni…
The latest album from XPN favorites Strand of Oaks is centered around connection and joy, even when it deals with more somber themes. Take…
Strand of Oaks gives a dear friend a joyous sendoff in “Jimi & Stan,” adds a Union Transfer show in October
The latest album from XPN favorites Strand of Oaks is centered around connection and joy, even when it deals with more somber themes. Take…
There are some people you can’t help but fall for. Kississippi‘s Zoe Allaire Reynolds embodies that sense of instant infatuation in the video for…
Kississippi releases giddy new video for “We’re So In Tune” ahead of sold-out PhilaMOCA show
There are some people you can’t help but fall for. Kississippi‘s Zoe Allaire Reynolds embodies that sense of instant infatuation in the video for…
“I’ve gotta be honest with you guys,” Michelle Zauner said to a packed Union Transfer on Saturday, “This is already spicier than the Friday…
Jubilee, Indeed: A Japanese Breakfast homecoming makes for a sublime Union Transfer re-opening
“I’ve gotta be honest with you guys,” Michelle Zauner said to a packed Union Transfer on Saturday, “This is already spicier than the Friday…
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a throwback to the golden age of magazines. Specifically, the Cover of Rolling Stone…
#TBTXPN celebrates musician who have spent time “on the cover of the Rolling Stone”
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a throwback to the golden age of magazines. Specifically, the Cover of Rolling Stone…
Live from Dublin, don’t miss our next virtual Free at Noon with Villagers. Led by Conor O’Brien, Villagers will release their album Fever Dreams…
Villagers will beam in from Dublin for next week’s virtual Free at Noon
Live from Dublin, don’t miss our next virtual Free at Noon with Villagers. Led by Conor O’Brien, Villagers will release their album Fever Dreams…
Amid a sea of indie darlings and punk mainstays, ska is having a moment of its own, mostly thanks to Gen Z-ers discovering the…
Philly’s Catbite are ska ambassadors for our collective new normal
Amid a sea of indie darlings and punk mainstays, ska is having a moment of its own, mostly thanks to Gen Z-ers discovering the…
Join DJ Robert Drake as he channels his Night Before inner magic to wrap up #XPNMTVWeek another 24-hour live broadcast: the XPN80sXplosion!
DJ Robert Drake will close out #XPNMTVWeek with the 24-hour XPN80sXplosion broadcast
Join DJ Robert Drake as he channels his Night Before inner magic to wrap up #XPNMTVWeek another 24-hour live broadcast: the XPN80sXplosion!
When XPN’s Dan Reed spoke with former MTV exec Jarl Mohn earlier this week, he gave some insight into the launch of Unplugged: where…
Go back to the basics with a full day of <em>Unplugged</em> on #XPNMTVWeek
When XPN’s Dan Reed spoke with former MTV exec Jarl Mohn earlier this week, he gave some insight into the launch of Unplugged: where…
If you tuned in to Day One of #XPNMTVWeek, you heard our playback of the first 100 unique videos that were broadcast on the…
XPN’s 100 Greatest Music Videos of the MTV Era
If you tuned in to Day One of #XPNMTVWeek, you heard our playback of the first 100 unique videos that were broadcast on the…
Delaware Valley native Jarl Mohn served as executive vice president of MTV from 1986 to 1990 — a crucial time in the network’s creative…
Jarl Mohn talks with XPN’s Dan Reed about bridging the 80s and 90s on MTV, launching <em>Unplugged</em>, Yo! MTV Raps and more
Delaware Valley native Jarl Mohn served as executive vice president of MTV from 1986 to 1990 — a crucial time in the network’s creative…
It feels very weird to say this but things are very much approaching normalcy, even if so much feels totally out-of-whack and downright scary.…
The Skeleton Key: August sees the return of Union Transfer, Chris Forsyth in open air, new hip hop and death metal, a bunch of music docs, and more
It feels very weird to say this but things are very much approaching normalcy, even if so much feels totally out-of-whack and downright scary.…
MTV Week continues into Throwback Thursday, featuring a celebration of all things 1981!
For MTV Week, #TBTXPN surveys the year of MTV’s birth: 1981
MTV Week continues into Throwback Thursday, featuring a celebration of all things 1981!
This post originally appeared on World Cafe’s NPR Music page. “Ladies and gentlemen, rock ‘n’ roll.” Those were the words spoken by Warner Cable…
These are the first 100 music videos MTV broadcast to the world
This post originally appeared on World Cafe’s NPR Music page. “Ladies and gentlemen, rock ‘n’ roll.” Those were the words spoken by Warner Cable…
Midway through a two-hour, 21-song performance at Bethlehem’s SteelStacks last night, Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes told the audience “The set is gonna be…
Bright Eyes and Lucy Dacus played a Steel Stacks show like it was their last
Midway through a two-hour, 21-song performance at Bethlehem’s SteelStacks last night, Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes told the audience “The set is gonna be…
In celebration of MTV Week on XPN, get ready for a live Free at Noon broadcast with Philadelphia’s own Pat Finnerty and the Full…
Celebrate MTV’s golden era with a Free at Noon of classics played by Pat Finnerty and the Full Band
In celebration of MTV Week on XPN, get ready for a live Free at Noon broadcast with Philadelphia’s own Pat Finnerty and the Full…
Dave Hause captures a nostalgia of summer love on his latest release, “Sandy Sheets.” Equally enamored by someone he’s singing about and the Jersey…
Listen to Dave Hause’s nostalgic new single “Sandy Sheets”
Dave Hause captures a nostalgia of summer love on his latest release, “Sandy Sheets.” Equally enamored by someone he’s singing about and the Jersey…
Joni Mitchell will make you yearn for people you’ve never met and places you’ve never been. Archives Vol. 2: The Reprise Years (1968-1971), the…
Joni Mitchell releases angelic unreleased recording of “Dawntreader” from <em>Archives Vol. 2: The Reprise Years (1968-1971)</em>
Joni Mitchell will make you yearn for people you’ve never met and places you’ve never been. Archives Vol. 2: The Reprise Years (1968-1971), the…
Philadelphia singer-songwriter Andrew Lipke dropped by XPN Studios last night for a visit on Helen Leicht’s last XPN Local Show before she takes a…
Andrew Lipke talks <em>The Last Waltz</em>, music education and more with Helen Leicht on XPN Local
Philadelphia singer-songwriter Andrew Lipke dropped by XPN Studios last night for a visit on Helen Leicht’s last XPN Local Show before she takes a…
While it takes some artists multiple albums to get their point across, TVO does so in a little over five minutes. Commanding your attention,…
TVO releases writhing new EP <em>Fall in a Pit</em>
While it takes some artists multiple albums to get their point across, TVO does so in a little over five minutes. Commanding your attention,…
Born during a lightning storm with Parliament-Funkadelic booming in the background, Kyle Sparkman makes eccentric indie pop lives up to his origin story. His…
Kyle Sparkman releases groovy new single “All There” along with live session in the woods
Born during a lightning storm with Parliament-Funkadelic booming in the background, Kyle Sparkman makes eccentric indie pop lives up to his origin story. His…
Next month is the 40th anniversary of MTV, and we’re celebrating here at XPN with a full week of special radio and digital programming…
Announcing MTV Week: A 40th anniversary celebration on WXPN
Next month is the 40th anniversary of MTV, and we’re celebrating here at XPN with a full week of special radio and digital programming…
Get a dose of SOUL on this week’s Throwback Thursday. All day long it’s Soul Power Day: featuring a different soulful (not to mention…
Harness some serious Soul Power on this week’s #TBTXPN
Get a dose of SOUL on this week’s Throwback Thursday. All day long it’s Soul Power Day: featuring a different soulful (not to mention…
The Human Robot Summertime Series at Sunflower Philly has reliably been the best music hang of the late-pandemic era, and they just expanded it…
Sixteen Jackies, Kelsey Cork and the Swigs, Dominic Angelella, Lizdelise join Sunflower Philly’s summer schedule
The Human Robot Summertime Series at Sunflower Philly has reliably been the best music hang of the late-pandemic era, and they just expanded it…
Goodbye Again don’t need an introduction. Ripping through their first-ever live set at Haus of Yarga Sunday night, you could feel the floor shaking…
Goodbye Again release debut single “Rum and Coke”
Goodbye Again don’t need an introduction. Ripping through their first-ever live set at Haus of Yarga Sunday night, you could feel the floor shaking…
Philly singer-songwriter Mutlu was the latest guest on the XPN Local Show with Helen Leicht. Joining her live on the air for an acoustic…
Mutlu talks playing live, Musicians On Call, and more with Helen Leicht on XPN Local
Philly singer-songwriter Mutlu was the latest guest on the XPN Local Show with Helen Leicht. Joining her live on the air for an acoustic…
Singer-songwriter and XPN fave Brandi Carlile returns this fall with her seventh studio album, In These Silent Days.
Brandi Carlile announces new album <em>In These Silent Days</em>, shares new song “Right On Time”
Singer-songwriter and XPN fave Brandi Carlile returns this fall with her seventh studio album, In These Silent Days.
The 2021 XPoNential Music Festival is a month and a half away, and now that we’ve brought you the initial lineup, as well as…
And now, your XPoNential Music Festival 2021 daily lineup!
The 2021 XPoNential Music Festival is a month and a half away, and now that we’ve brought you the initial lineup, as well as…
John Flynn has been a staple of the Philly regional singer-songwriter community for going on three decades, and just released his newest album Wild…
Listen to John Flynn talk <em>Wild Beat The Wings</em> and more on XPN Local with Helen Leicht
John Flynn has been a staple of the Philly regional singer-songwriter community for going on three decades, and just released his newest album Wild…
After teasing news this weekend with some cosmic pickup-truck-on-a-country-road footage, Philly-born rockers The War On Drugs announced details on their fifth album today. I…
The War On Drugs announce new album, new video, back-to-back headlining shows at The Met
After teasing news this weekend with some cosmic pickup-truck-on-a-country-road footage, Philly-born rockers The War On Drugs announced details on their fifth album today. I…
This week on Throwback Thursday, break out the mason jars and canning tongs ‘cause we’re making JAM… (pause) oh, jam bands. That makes way…
This week, it’s a 13 hour marathon of Jam Bands on #TBTXPN
This week on Throwback Thursday, break out the mason jars and canning tongs ‘cause we’re making JAM… (pause) oh, jam bands. That makes way…
This month marks George Clinton’s 80th birthday and I’ve been thinking (and talking!) a lot about the musical worlds that he has built for…
Culture Cypher Radio July Chart: George Clinton’s birthday and the wide-reaching influence of P-Funk
This month marks George Clinton’s 80th birthday and I’ve been thinking (and talking!) a lot about the musical worlds that he has built for…
Live from Los Angeles, don’t miss this week’s virtual Free at Noon with the indie pop duo Haerts.
HAERTS plays from LA for next week’s Free At Noon
Live from Los Angeles, don’t miss this week’s virtual Free at Noon with the indie pop duo Haerts.
Behind The Scene is a new series which attempts to bring focus to the overlooked aspects of the Philadelphia music community. This is a collection…
Behind The Scene: The art behind the music with Jeremie Rose, Tim Gough, James Everhart, Natalia Navarra and more
Behind The Scene is a new series which attempts to bring focus to the overlooked aspects of the Philadelphia music community. This is a collection…
Billie Eilish was born to be bad. Making deals with the devil and selling her soul on her latest single, “NDA,” she’s merciless. The…
Billie Eilish shares reckless new single “NDA” ahead of her performance at Firefly
Billie Eilish was born to be bad. Making deals with the devil and selling her soul on her latest single, “NDA,” she’s merciless. The…
Local indie-folk duo Who? What? When? Why? & Werewolves balance a reverence for musical tradition with an irreverent sense of humor, and both of…
Gothic Americana and Puppets: step into the world of Who? What? When? Why? & Werewolves’ “Hard Feelings” video
Local indie-folk duo Who? What? When? Why? & Werewolves balance a reverence for musical tradition with an irreverent sense of humor, and both of…
Philly rapper, producer, and promoter James Weldon first envisioned his Smorefest event as a perfect summertime hang, bringing together friends, food, and a fantastic…
Smorefest brings James Weldon, Jacqueline Constance, Arthur Thomas, Masego and more to One Art Community Center
Philly rapper, producer, and promoter James Weldon first envisioned his Smorefest event as a perfect summertime hang, bringing together friends, food, and a fantastic…
Rocking a revved-up headlining set this weekend at the sold-out Shady Grove Music Fest, it was clear Grace Vonderkuhn is very ready for the…
Grace Vonderkuhn celebrates the unsung on “Rock And Roll Gary”
Rocking a revved-up headlining set this weekend at the sold-out Shady Grove Music Fest, it was clear Grace Vonderkuhn is very ready for the…
Whether you speak Spanish or not, Interminable’s spirit and energy is undeniable. The Philly-based project of singer-songwriter Ximena Violante boasts Latin folk fusion rhythms…
Interminable releases border defying video for “Preludio & el Agua”
Whether you speak Spanish or not, Interminable’s spirit and energy is undeniable. The Philly-based project of singer-songwriter Ximena Violante boasts Latin folk fusion rhythms…
This week’s Throwback Thursday really “gets around”. No matter how you get around, we’ve got a song for just about every mode of transportation.…
Buckle up! We’re ‘getting around’ on #TBTXPN
This week’s Throwback Thursday really “gets around”. No matter how you get around, we’ve got a song for just about every mode of transportation.…
Live from Colorado, don’t miss this week’s virtual Free at Noon with Brett Dennen.
Brett Dennen joins us for Free at Noon next week
Live from Colorado, don’t miss this week’s virtual Free at Noon with Brett Dennen.
The iconic Daptone Records turns 20 this year, and to celebrate the milestone, will release The Daptone Super Soul Revue Live at the Apollo. The three-disc…
Sharon Jones and Charles Bradley videos from the vaults tease Daptone Records <em>Live at the Apollo</em> album
The iconic Daptone Records turns 20 this year, and to celebrate the milestone, will release The Daptone Super Soul Revue Live at the Apollo. The three-disc…
The lineup for the 2021 XPoNential Music Festival keeps getting bigger and better. Today, we’ve got news that Tedeschi Trucks: Fireside Live will headline…
Tedeschi Trucks: Fireside Live, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Hoochi Coochi, Great Time and more added to XPNFest 2021
The lineup for the 2021 XPoNential Music Festival keeps getting bigger and better. Today, we’ve got news that Tedeschi Trucks: Fireside Live will headline…
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a guaranteed heartbreaker… All day long, it’s Tom Petty A to Z. On his own and with the Heartbreakers,…
Celebrate Tom Petty’s songs from A to Z on #TBTXPN
This week’s Throwback Thursday is a guaranteed heartbreaker… All day long, it’s Tom Petty A to Z. On his own and with the Heartbreakers,…
We dip into the archives on Friday, July 9th and present a session for Free at Noon recorded earlier this spring with Valerie June.
Flash it back to Valerie June’s NON-COMM set for next week’s virtual Free at Noon
We dip into the archives on Friday, July 9th and present a session for Free at Noon recorded earlier this spring with Valerie June.
With the long holiday weekend upon us, and the reopening world at our doorstep, a solid musical soundtrack is most appropriate, and WXPN is…
Here’s your Independence Day weekend programming schedule on WXPN
With the long holiday weekend upon us, and the reopening world at our doorstep, a solid musical soundtrack is most appropriate, and WXPN is…
As the great reopening of the world continues, the local music community will notice a few new faces and spaces around town, including Russo…
Watch Frances Quinlan’s gripping Live at Russo Music session
As the great reopening of the world continues, the local music community will notice a few new faces and spaces around town, including Russo…
The Districts are breaking their 18-month hibernation this fall to hit the road for a string of U.S. dates that will bring them through…
The Districts announce a string of U.S. tour dates and Brooklyn Steel livestream with Mannequin Pussy
The Districts are breaking their 18-month hibernation this fall to hit the road for a string of U.S. dates that will bring them through…
Lucy Dacus just released her new album, Home Video, and on Friday July 2nd, she plays it live for our virtual Free at Noon…
Lucy Dacus will bring <em>Home Video</em> to a virtual Free at Noon next week
Lucy Dacus just released her new album, Home Video, and on Friday July 2nd, she plays it live for our virtual Free at Noon…
Minimalist Minnesota indie band Low will release its 13th studio album this September via Sub Pop Records, and the band announced a tour behind…
Low announces new album <em>Hey What</em> and a 2022 tour that comes to World Cafe Live
Minimalist Minnesota indie band Low will release its 13th studio album this September via Sub Pop Records, and the band announced a tour behind…
In about 15 minutes, Sean Danger Smith took listeners through a whole alcohol-addled night under the haze of Ortlieb’s red lights. Celebrating the release…
Sean Danger Smith returns to Ortlieb’s and celebrates <em>Sad Disco</em> at Free at Noon
In about 15 minutes, Sean Danger Smith took listeners through a whole alcohol-addled night under the haze of Ortlieb’s red lights. Celebrating the release…
When famed Philly disc jockey Jerry “The Geator with the Heater” Blavat held court on WCAM radio in the 1960s, his audience of “yon…
<em>The Lost Dedications</em> will take a trip down memory lane with The Geator and his unopened fan mail this Saturday on XPN
When famed Philly disc jockey Jerry “The Geator with the Heater” Blavat held court on WCAM radio in the 1960s, his audience of “yon…
In honor of the anniversary of Joni Mitchell’s iconic album Blue, which came out 50 years ago on Tuesday, she has released Blue 50. A collection of previously…
Joni Mitchell releases Blue 50 to celebrate iconic album’s 50-year anniversary
In honor of the anniversary of Joni Mitchell’s iconic album Blue, which came out 50 years ago on Tuesday, she has released Blue 50. A collection of previously…
Over the past seven years, Philly’s Soul Glo have shattered the boundaries of hardcore punk, building their sound into something more expansive with each…
Soul Glo signs to Epitaph Records
Over the past seven years, Philly’s Soul Glo have shattered the boundaries of hardcore punk, building their sound into something more expansive with each…
Get ready to rumble on this week’s Throwback Thursday! Pull up a ringside seat as iconic bands and artists go head-to-head in a day…
Its a day of match-ups on #TBTXPN’s “Vs.” edition this Thursday
Get ready to rumble on this week’s Throwback Thursday! Pull up a ringside seat as iconic bands and artists go head-to-head in a day…
Next week, our virtual Free at Noon concert is live from Knoxville, at the University of Tennessee, as we’re joined by our June Artist…
Artist to watch Amythyst Kiah is our Free at Noon guest next week
Next week, our virtual Free at Noon concert is live from Knoxville, at the University of Tennessee, as we’re joined by our June Artist…
Pop icon Diana Ross returns this year with her 25th studio album, Thank You, a collection of songs about joy, unity, and love. The…
Listen to Diana Ross’ modern soul single “Thank You” from her first album in 15 years
Pop icon Diana Ross returns this year with her 25th studio album, Thank You, a collection of songs about joy, unity, and love. The…
As Juneteenth approaches, along with its new status as a federal holiday, here at XPN we’ll broadcast two specials in observation of the occasion,…
Celebrate Juneteenth on WXPN with <em>The Sounds of Blackness</em> hosted by Rahman Wortman, plus a <em>Black Music City</em> livestream
As Juneteenth approaches, along with its new status as a federal holiday, here at XPN we’ll broadcast two specials in observation of the occasion,…
Singer-songwriter icon Bob Dylan released his 39th studio album, Rough and Rowdy Ways, during the global pandemic lockdown of 2020, and he’s finally getting…
Bob Dylan to perform for the first time since the pandemic in a Veeps livestream next month
Singer-songwriter icon Bob Dylan released his 39th studio album, Rough and Rowdy Ways, during the global pandemic lockdown of 2020, and he’s finally getting…
The first time I met DJ Na$h was at a program called the Institute of Hip Hop Entrepreneurship in 2016. She had just got…
DJ Na$h Prepares to celebrate Juneteenth with an Interna$hional Bounce party at Sunflower Philly
The first time I met DJ Na$h was at a program called the Institute of Hip Hop Entrepreneurship in 2016. She had just got…
A love letter to the band that has shaped his life for the last decade, Martin Courtney, the frontperson of Real Estate, gave an…
Martin Courtney takes a walk down memory lane on the latest edition of Free at Noon
A love letter to the band that has shaped his life for the last decade, Martin Courtney, the frontperson of Real Estate, gave an…
Too often, second albums don’t quite deliver on the promise of a band’s debut… On the other hand, plenty of second albums are actually…
No sophomore slumps on this week’s #TBTXPN
Too often, second albums don’t quite deliver on the promise of a band’s debut… On the other hand, plenty of second albums are actually…
This week our live, virtual Free at Noon takes place right in our backyard as we present a performance from Philadelphia songwriter Sean “Danger”…
Philly’s Sean “Danger” Smith will play Free at Noon next week
This week our live, virtual Free at Noon takes place right in our backyard as we present a performance from Philadelphia songwriter Sean “Danger”…
Hudson Valley singer-songwriter Laura Stevenson will return this summer with her sixth studio LP on longtime label Don Giovanni Records. “I’m so proud of…
Watch Laura Stevenson’s cathartic new video for “State,” see her at Johnny Brenda’s with Adult Mom this fall
Hudson Valley singer-songwriter Laura Stevenson will return this summer with her sixth studio LP on longtime label Don Giovanni Records. “I’m so proud of…
The day after releasing their acclaimed new album, Jubilee, Japanese Breakfast made an appearance on CBS This Morning’s “Saturday Sessions.” Along with performing three tracks…
Japanese Breakfast plays a celebratory CBS This Morning set; Michelle Zauner announces movie adaptation of <em>Crying in H Mart</em>
The day after releasing their acclaimed new album, Jubilee, Japanese Breakfast made an appearance on CBS This Morning’s “Saturday Sessions.” Along with performing three tracks…
We paid an after-hours visit to Fishtown cafe Steap and Grind with two voluminous punk bands for Episode Eight of Unprecedented Sessions, the livestream…
It’s a punk explosion with UgLi and Full Bush on Unprecedented Sessions Episode 8
We paid an after-hours visit to Fishtown cafe Steap and Grind with two voluminous punk bands for Episode Eight of Unprecedented Sessions, the livestream…
The reopening of Broadway is a solid signifier of the reopening of the world, and Bruce Springsteen is going to be part of it.
Springsteen on Broadway is back this summer
The reopening of Broadway is a solid signifier of the reopening of the world, and Bruce Springsteen is going to be part of it.
This week on Throwback Thursday, we flash back half a century to revisit the music of 1971! 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of classic…
Flash back 50 years to 1971 on #TBTXPN this week
This week on Throwback Thursday, we flash back half a century to revisit the music of 1971! 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of classic…
It was soon after the Stonewall Riots in 1969 that LGBTQ musicians found their freedom within the lyrics of a song and took to…
OUTMusic: Celebrate Pride on WXPN with Q’Zine’s Robert Drake and Amazon Country’s Debra D’Alessandro
It was soon after the Stonewall Riots in 1969 that LGBTQ musicians found their freedom within the lyrics of a song and took to…
A long-time XPN favorite, Rodney Crowell plays live for us next week as we present another virtual Free at Noon.
Rodney Crowell will play Free at Noon on June 11
A long-time XPN favorite, Rodney Crowell plays live for us next week as we present another virtual Free at Noon.
Bartees Strange is an unstoppable force. Named the XPN Artist To Watch for February, it’s been almost impossible to take your eyes off him…
Bartees Strange releases haunting new video for “Flagey God”
Bartees Strange is an unstoppable force. Named the XPN Artist To Watch for February, it’s been almost impossible to take your eyes off him…
Hometown heroes Mo Lowda & the Humble have rescheduled their tour and album release party for November 19 at Union Transfer. The band will…
Mo Lowda & the Humble announce rescheduled Union Transfer date
Hometown heroes Mo Lowda & the Humble have rescheduled their tour and album release party for November 19 at Union Transfer. The band will…
Danielle Johnson of Wilmington band Hoochi Coochi will release her new EP Franklin Street on September 3 under the moniker Sug Daniels. The EP will be…
Sug Daniels will give you butterflies on “Heavy”
Danielle Johnson of Wilmington band Hoochi Coochi will release her new EP Franklin Street on September 3 under the moniker Sug Daniels. The EP will be…
Multidisciplinary Philadelphia artist Moor Mother has found a new home for her music. The project of poet / producer / sound artist / activist…
Moor Mother joins the roster at ANTI-Records, releases gripping new song “Zami”
Multidisciplinary Philadelphia artist Moor Mother has found a new home for her music. The project of poet / producer / sound artist / activist…
Summer’s here and the time is right for another season of Throwback Thursday on XPN! Tune in each Thursday starting June 3rd for a…
#TBTXPN kicks off for summer 2021 with a 13-hour celebration of The Sound of Philadelphia
Summer’s here and the time is right for another season of Throwback Thursday on XPN! Tune in each Thursday starting June 3rd for a…
Last we spoke to New Jersey native Martin Courtney, singer-songwriter and guitarist of the indie rock band Real Estate, he was at his home in…
Real Estate’s Martin Courtney set to grace the Virtual Free At Noon Stage
Last we spoke to New Jersey native Martin Courtney, singer-songwriter and guitarist of the indie rock band Real Estate, he was at his home in…
Memorial Day is the unofficial kick-off of summer and WXPN is celebrating with a very special Highs in the 70s ultra-marathon! Tune in this…
Dan Reed will be on the air for 14 hours this Memorial Day, bringing you a HIGHS IN THE 70s ultra-marathon
Memorial Day is the unofficial kick-off of summer and WXPN is celebrating with a very special Highs in the 70s ultra-marathon! Tune in this…
Mesh is going to make you wait for it. Almost two years since releasing their fuzz-drenched demos that amassed a cult-like following, they dropped…
Mesh delivers fuzz-drenched debut album
Mesh is going to make you wait for it. Almost two years since releasing their fuzz-drenched demos that amassed a cult-like following, they dropped…
As XPN celebrates the 80th birthday of singer-songwriter icon Bob Dylan today, let’s turn our attention to one of the ways that Dylan devotees…
Celebrate #XPNDylanDay with Philly tribute Highway 61 Revival
As XPN celebrates the 80th birthday of singer-songwriter icon Bob Dylan today, let’s turn our attention to one of the ways that Dylan devotees…
Before you set sail into your Memorial Day Weekend, make sure to tune in on Friday for a virtual Free at Noon with Brett…
Brett Dennen will bring his first album in five years to next week’s Free at Noon
Before you set sail into your Memorial Day Weekend, make sure to tune in on Friday for a virtual Free at Noon with Brett…
This Monday, May 24th, WXPN is celebrating Bob Dylan’s 80th birthday throughout the day with special features.
Celebrate Bob Dylan’s 80th birthday with #XPNDylanDay
This Monday, May 24th, WXPN is celebrating Bob Dylan’s 80th birthday throughout the day with special features.
Call it a tip of the bucket hat from one wordsmith to another: Philly rapper Khemist released a new music video this week for…
Khemist pays homage to Dylan in his new “Upright” video
Call it a tip of the bucket hat from one wordsmith to another: Philly rapper Khemist released a new music video this week for…
WXPN Midday Host and local music champion Helen Leicht is the special guest on the 200th episode of 25 O’Clock, the long-running local music…
Always Be Passionate: XPN’s Helen Leicht talks about Philly music, her career in radio, and paying it forward on 25 O’Clock’s 200th episode
WXPN Midday Host and local music champion Helen Leicht is the special guest on the 200th episode of 25 O’Clock, the long-running local music…
Leading up to his 200th episode of the 25 O’Clock podcast, Philadelphia’s Dan Drago made a return visit to XPN Studios last week to…
Fugazi to The Figgs: Listen to 25 O’Clock’s Dan Drago guest host What’s The Frequency on XPN
Leading up to his 200th episode of the 25 O’Clock podcast, Philadelphia’s Dan Drago made a return visit to XPN Studios last week to…
Bartees Strange may be a producer and songwriter, but above all, he’s a storyteller. Live from 38 North Studio in Falls Church, Virginia, he…
NON-COMM Recap: Bartees Strange spins stories during his stripped-down set
Bartees Strange may be a producer and songwriter, but above all, he’s a storyteller. Live from 38 North Studio in Falls Church, Virginia, he…
A rising talent out of England, Dylan Cartlidge beams in next week to play live for our virtual Free at Noon.
Get to know Dylan Cartlidge at next week’s Free at Noon
A rising talent out of England, Dylan Cartlidge beams in next week to play live for our virtual Free at Noon.
Leon Bridges is back. The Fort Worth, Texas singer-songwriter will release his third album, Gold Diggers Sound, on June 23rd via Columbia Records. In…
Listen to Leon Bridges’ smooth new single “Motorbike,” get details on his third album <em>Gold-Diggers Sound</em>
Leon Bridges is back. The Fort Worth, Texas singer-songwriter will release his third album, Gold Diggers Sound, on June 23rd via Columbia Records. In…
Philly-based singer-songwriter Anika Pyle has had a productive year during the Coronavirus pandemic, despite being isolated from her bandmates in Katie Ellen. She’s made…
Listen to Anika Pyle’s cover of the theme to <em>The Golden Girls</em>
Philly-based singer-songwriter Anika Pyle has had a productive year during the Coronavirus pandemic, despite being isolated from her bandmates in Katie Ellen. She’s made…
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has tallied the votes and will have a whopping thirteen inductees for the class of 2021. Leading…
Todd Rundgren, Tina Turner, Carole King, Foo Fighters, and more will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has tallied the votes and will have a whopping thirteen inductees for the class of 2021. Leading…
Your XPoNential Music Festival 2021 lineup has arrived – with more to come! Taking place on the Camden Waterfront on September 17th, 18th, and…
Dawes, Ani DiFranco, Los Lobos, Strand of Oaks, Adia Victoria and more will play XPoNential Music Festival 2021
Your XPoNential Music Festival 2021 lineup has arrived – with more to come! Taking place on the Camden Waterfront on September 17th, 18th, and…
Sleater-Kinney is back with their first new music in two years. Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker wrote and recorded a new album at home…
Sleater-Kinney announces new album and shares single “Worry With You”
Sleater-Kinney is back with their first new music in two years. Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker wrote and recorded a new album at home…
Ani DiFranco brought her own not-so-tiny desk to her NPR Tiny Desk (Home) Concert filming. The antique piece, which belonged to her great-grandfather, is…
Watch Ani DiFranco’s Tiny Desk (Home) Concert
Ani DiFranco brought her own not-so-tiny desk to her NPR Tiny Desk (Home) Concert filming. The antique piece, which belonged to her great-grandfather, is…
Following up on “The Melting of the Sun” and “Pay Your Way in Pain,” St. Vincent has released the third single off of her…
St. Vincent puts out “Down” ahead of <em>Daddy’s Home</em> release
Following up on “The Melting of the Sun” and “Pay Your Way in Pain,” St. Vincent has released the third single off of her…
UK singer-songwriter veteran Joan Armatrading is releasing her 22nd studio album this summer. Consequences will be out on BMG Records digitally on June 18th,…
Joan Armatrading will release her latest album, <em>Consequences</em>, this summer; listen to “Already There”
UK singer-songwriter veteran Joan Armatrading is releasing her 22nd studio album this summer. Consequences will be out on BMG Records digitally on June 18th,…
The virtual 2021 NON-COMMvention begins tonight and for the next three days presents live performances broadcasting on WXPN from all around the world.
NON-COMM 2021 brings you performances by Tune-Yards, Valerie June, Bartees Strange, The Wallflowers and more
The virtual 2021 NON-COMMvention begins tonight and for the next three days presents live performances broadcasting on WXPN from all around the world.
Americana singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams is on the road to recovery after suffering a stroke in November of 2020.
Lucinda Williams opens up about her stroke in a new Rolling Stone interview
Americana singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams is on the road to recovery after suffering a stroke in November of 2020.
Country singer-songwriter Zach Bryan wasn’t much for conversation in today’s Free at Noon concert. Playing acoustic from Whidbey Island, Washington — where he’s is…
Zach Bryan is upfront and introspective in an acoustic Free at Noon
Country singer-songwriter Zach Bryan wasn’t much for conversation in today’s Free at Noon concert. Playing acoustic from Whidbey Island, Washington — where he’s is…
Nicholas Gillespie and Serg Cereja met through a mutual friend back in 2019 and began jamming together, rehearsing various rock standards. The two began…
Laurel Canyon make a fun, quirky debut with “Two Times Emptiness”
Nicholas Gillespie and Serg Cereja met through a mutual friend back in 2019 and began jamming together, rehearsing various rock standards. The two began…
This week on XPN, we kick off the 2021 virtual NON-COMMvention and we invite you to tune in! Our week of live, virtual performances…
The Lone Bellow and Amythyst Kiah will play a virtual Free at Noon on Friday during NON-COMM
This week on XPN, we kick off the 2021 virtual NON-COMMvention and we invite you to tune in! Our week of live, virtual performances…
This week on XPN, we kick off the 2021 virtual NON-COMMvention and we invite you to tune in! Our week of live, virtual performances…
Songhoy Blues and Tamar Aphek will play a special Thursday Free At Noon livestream during NON-COMM
This week on XPN, we kick off the 2021 virtual NON-COMMvention and we invite you to tune in! Our week of live, virtual performances…
In a recent post to Instagram, Lana Del Rey announced that she will be releasing a new album, Blue Banisters, on July 4.
Lana Del Rey’s new album, <em/>Blue Banisters</em> set for release on July 4
In a recent post to Instagram, Lana Del Rey announced that she will be releasing a new album, Blue Banisters, on July 4.
No wave music encapsulates a lot of different things: it’s the in-your-face aggression of bands like The Contortions and Lydia Lunch, the arrhythmic art…
A guide to the weird and wonderful world of Philadelphia no wave music
No wave music encapsulates a lot of different things: it’s the in-your-face aggression of bands like The Contortions and Lydia Lunch, the arrhythmic art…
As Philly-rooted, Austin-based darkwave duo Lovelorn preps for their debut full-length release this August, they’ve released a cover of Billie Elish’s “i love you”…
Watch Lovelorn’s moody cover of Billie Eilish’s “i love you”
As Philly-rooted, Austin-based darkwave duo Lovelorn preps for their debut full-length release this August, they’ve released a cover of Billie Elish’s “i love you”…
British bicycle company Brompton has joined forces with 13 major artists and bands for an exclusive giveaway with Live Nation’s Crew Nation, a relief…
Phoebe Bridgers, Radiohead, LCD Soundsystem and more collaborate with British bicycle company Brompton to support venue crew workers
British bicycle company Brompton has joined forces with 13 major artists and bands for an exclusive giveaway with Live Nation’s Crew Nation, a relief…
Spring has broken and warm weather has swept across the region in recent weeks, with another wave alongside it: the first announcements of indoor,…
Ready Or Not, Here Concerts Come! As fans vax up, in-person shows make a hopeful return to 2021 calendars
Spring has broken and warm weather has swept across the region in recent weeks, with another wave alongside it: the first announcements of indoor,…
I’ve spent a great deal of time this month thinking about tradition. Jazz, arguably America’s greatest artistic tradition, has spent much of the last…
Culture Cypher Radio April Chart: On Jazz, <em>Blue Lines</em>, the carrying of tradition and the future of music
I’ve spent a great deal of time this month thinking about tradition. Jazz, arguably America’s greatest artistic tradition, has spent much of the last…
Our virtual Free at Noon is live next week from just north of Seattle as we’re joined by singer-songwriter and U.S. Navy member Zach…
Zach Bryan will play next week’s virtual Free at Noon concert
Our virtual Free at Noon is live next week from just north of Seattle as we’re joined by singer-songwriter and U.S. Navy member Zach…
Synth-punk duo Lovelorn has spent the past few years crafting their debut record, and it’s finally coming to fruition.
Lovelorn’s full-length debut <em>What’s Yr Damage</em> will release this summer via 6131
Synth-punk duo Lovelorn has spent the past few years crafting their debut record, and it’s finally coming to fruition.
Philly son Kurt Vile has had a remarkable run on Matador Records, releasing six of his eight LPs (including lotta sea lice, his 2018…
Kurt Vile signs to Verve Records, plans new LP for 2022
Philly son Kurt Vile has had a remarkable run on Matador Records, releasing six of his eight LPs (including lotta sea lice, his 2018…
We need more songs about Philadelphia. I know, I know: “Philadelphia” by Atom & His Package and Reef the Lost Cauze’s “Sound of Philadelphia”…
The Skeleton Key: End the month with documentaries, concerts near and far, new music from Desertion Trio and Sonagi, a long-lost tape from the Philly punk underground, and more!
We need more songs about Philadelphia. I know, I know: “Philadelphia” by Atom & His Package and Reef the Lost Cauze’s “Sound of Philadelphia”…
Questlove has announced that this October he will be releasing a new book, Music is History. This marks the sixth book that the multi-talented…
Questlove announces his new book, <em>Music is History</em>
Questlove has announced that this October he will be releasing a new book, Music is History. This marks the sixth book that the multi-talented…
This Thursday is Earth Day and we’re celebrating at XPN with the “Earth Day 100”, one hundred songs about nature, the environment, and our…
Celebrate Earth Day on WXPN with the Earth Day 100
This Thursday is Earth Day and we’re celebrating at XPN with the “Earth Day 100”, one hundred songs about nature, the environment, and our…
We take a trip out west this week as our virtual Free At Noon is live from Valentine’s Studio in North Hollywood with singer…
LP joins us from North Hollywood for next week’s Free At Noon
We take a trip out west this week as our virtual Free At Noon is live from Valentine’s Studio in North Hollywood with singer…
If you’re a regular listener to Serious Rap Shit — the hip-hop and beyond podcast co-founded by The Key’s John Morrison — you’ve heard…
Watch part one of <em>Another Word For Paradise</em>, a documentary on the hip-hop scene in India featuring Lushlife and the Serious Rap Shit team
If you’re a regular listener to Serious Rap Shit — the hip-hop and beyond podcast co-founded by The Key’s John Morrison — you’ve heard…
Lucy Dacus just announced that her third album, Home Video, will be released June 25 on Matador Records. The lead single “Hot & Heavy”…
Lucy Dacus announces new album <em>Home Video</em>, shares single “Hot & Heavy”
Lucy Dacus just announced that her third album, Home Video, will be released June 25 on Matador Records. The lead single “Hot & Heavy”…
Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl is making quite a name for himself these days in the music documentary realm. After celebrating the legendary Van…
Watch a trailer for Dave Grohl’s new road movie, <em>What Drives Us</em>
Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl is making quite a name for himself these days in the music documentary realm. After celebrating the legendary Van…
Enjoy an intimate live performance of songs from Gray's latest album, Skellig.
David Gray Performs A Mini-Concert For World Cafe
Enjoy an intimate live performance of songs from Gray's latest album, Skellig.
Prince‘s 40th studio album, Welcome 2 America, has just been announced for release on July 30th and will mark his first posthumous album of…
Prince’s first posthumous album, <em>Welcome 2 America</em>, set for release on July 30th
Prince‘s 40th studio album, Welcome 2 America, has just been announced for release on July 30th and will mark his first posthumous album of…
“So this is our first show in a year and a half,” John Dominy told the crowd at Sunflower Philly last night. “But I…
Scenes from opening night of Sunflower Philly’s concert series with Dominy
“So this is our first show in a year and a half,” John Dominy told the crowd at Sunflower Philly last night. “But I…
We’re back in Nashville for another live virtual Free at Noon, this time with Langhorne Slim. The long-running folk singer-songwriter was slated to play…
Langhorne Slim returns for a Free at Noon next week
We’re back in Nashville for another live virtual Free at Noon, this time with Langhorne Slim. The long-running folk singer-songwriter was slated to play…
It’s been a minute since the Bucks County indie-rockers Illinois have released new music; their last single was put out three years ago, and…
Illinois kick off their first album in six years with their new single, “Stumbelina”
It’s been a minute since the Bucks County indie-rockers Illinois have released new music; their last single was put out three years ago, and…
At the end of 2020, Kilamanzego released two limited edition songs, “Anxiety” and “Meditate” — though, unless you purchased her shirt bundle, you might…
Kilamanzego brings on five unique producers to remix “Anxiety”
At the end of 2020, Kilamanzego released two limited edition songs, “Anxiety” and “Meditate” — though, unless you purchased her shirt bundle, you might…
What are the best songs about literally playing the guitar?
A Complete Playlist About ‘Strumming The Six String’
What are the best songs about literally playing the guitar?
At this point we already all know that we miss live music, so I’ll cut right to the chase: You can go see some…
Dominy will be the first act for a series of socially-distanced live shows at Sunflower Philly
At this point we already all know that we miss live music, so I’ll cut right to the chase: You can go see some…
We’re joined by an up and coming voice this week as our live, virtual Free at Noon takes us to Nashville, Tennessee for a…
Nashville’s Maddie Medley will play next week’s Free at Noon concert
We’re joined by an up and coming voice this week as our live, virtual Free at Noon takes us to Nashville, Tennessee for a…
The first Friday of a new month brings a fresh crop of albums, EPs and other neat collections to PRESS PLAY! This week, we’re…
PRESS PLAY: 6 New Albums Out April 2nd!
The first Friday of a new month brings a fresh crop of albums, EPs and other neat collections to PRESS PLAY! This week, we’re…
Philly trumpet player and multidisciplinary artist Marty Gottlieb-Hollis released a personal short film under their project Martronimous.
Philly’s Martronimous invites others to be themselves in vulnerable short film “My Softness and Yours”
Philly trumpet player and multidisciplinary artist Marty Gottlieb-Hollis released a personal short film under their project Martronimous.
Devi Majeske has been creating music as Air Devi for nearly six years now. She has added to her growing discography yet again with…
Air Devi returns with the picturesque new song, “mosquitos in the backyard”
Devi Majeske has been creating music as Air Devi for nearly six years now. She has added to her growing discography yet again with…
One thing about WXPN that I love is the way we support local musicians and artists. Platforms like The Local Show with Helen Leicht…
Welcome To The Locals: Queen Maya
One thing about WXPN that I love is the way we support local musicians and artists. Platforms like The Local Show with Helen Leicht…
This week we head north to Toronto for a live, virtual Free at Noon concert with The Weather Station.
The Weather Station brings their majestic new album <em>Ignorance</em> to a virtual Free at Noon
This week we head north to Toronto for a live, virtual Free at Noon concert with The Weather Station.
After releasing two acclaimed albums in 2020, Taylor Swift‘s project for 2021 is an extensive re-making of a decent portion of her back-catalog with…
Taylor Swift’s first From The Vault single features Philly’s Eric Slick on drums
After releasing two acclaimed albums in 2020, Taylor Swift‘s project for 2021 is an extensive re-making of a decent portion of her back-catalog with…
It’s a smattering of old friends and new favorites on this week’s PRESS PLAY, with sketchy, the newest album by celebrated duo tune-yards, at…
PRESS PLAY: 7 New Albums Out March 26th!
It’s a smattering of old friends and new favorites on this week’s PRESS PLAY, with sketchy, the newest album by celebrated duo tune-yards, at…
Last week’s mass shootings at three Atlanta-area spas that left eight people dead, including six women of Asian descent, were a harrowing reminder of…
Will Yip launches a #StopAsianHate raffle to benefit AAPI Community Fund with help from Circa Survive, The Menzingers, Mannequin Pussy and more
Last week’s mass shootings at three Atlanta-area spas that left eight people dead, including six women of Asian descent, were a harrowing reminder of…
Tarriona “Tank” Ball has had a busy year: back in March of 2020 she was performing for NPR’s Tiny Desk (Home) Concert series, and…
Tarriona “Tank” Ball will explore love and its complications in her new book, <em>Vulnerable AF</em>
Tarriona “Tank” Ball has had a busy year: back in March of 2020 she was performing for NPR’s Tiny Desk (Home) Concert series, and…
March 2021, marks one year since COVID lockdowns were first announced in the U.S. After a brief hiatus, Culture Cypher Radio came back to…
Culture Cypher Radio March Chart: Reflections and sounds from one year in a global pandemic
March 2021, marks one year since COVID lockdowns were first announced in the U.S. After a brief hiatus, Culture Cypher Radio came back to…
Earlier this month, they are gutting a body of water reissued their formidable 2019 album Destiny XL on Citrus City Records. The tape sounds…
they are gutting a body of water reissue 2019’s terrific <em>Destiny XL</em> on Citrus City Records
Earlier this month, they are gutting a body of water reissued their formidable 2019 album Destiny XL on Citrus City Records. The tape sounds…
In his usual (but not-so-typical) style, serpentwithfeet, AKA Josiah Wise, has released another track that bridges the gap between gospel and experimental pop.
serpentwithfeet relases “Heart Storm (with NAO)” as a final preview of his upcoming album, <em>Deacon</em>
In his usual (but not-so-typical) style, serpentwithfeet, AKA Josiah Wise, has released another track that bridges the gap between gospel and experimental pop.
The latest of NPR’s ongoing Tiny Desk (Home) concert features Sting performing a three-song set that features some of his most well-known work.
Sting is joined by Shirazee for an impeccable Tiny Desk (home) concert
The latest of NPR’s ongoing Tiny Desk (Home) concert features Sting performing a three-song set that features some of his most well-known work.
We’re going live to East Nashville, Tennessee next week for a virtual Free at Noon with Aaron Lee Tasjan.
Aaron Lee Tasjan will bring glam jams to Free at Noon next week
We’re going live to East Nashville, Tennessee next week for a virtual Free at Noon with Aaron Lee Tasjan.
Fresh off his phenomenal Free at Noon performance last Friday, Jon Batiste leads the list of new album releases this week with his collection,…
PRESS PLAY: 9 New Albums Out March 19th!
Fresh off his phenomenal Free at Noon performance last Friday, Jon Batiste leads the list of new album releases this week with his collection,…
When we realized that the WXPN special Songs That Got Us Through The Year fell on a Tuesday, my XPN Local co-host Helen Leicht…
Listen to songs from Philly that got us through the year on the #XPNGotUsThrough edition of the Local Show
When we realized that the WXPN special Songs That Got Us Through The Year fell on a Tuesday, my XPN Local co-host Helen Leicht…
If you thought XPN’s Songs That Got Us Through The Year day of special programming was a treat — and indeed it was! —…
#XPNGotUsThrough In Review: Playlists, bonus songs, and beyond
If you thought XPN’s Songs That Got Us Through The Year day of special programming was a treat — and indeed it was! —…
Black Music City has selected 23 local Black musicians and artists from over 600 applicants to receive grants to produce artworks inspired by the…
Black Music City announces 23 grants for local artists
Black Music City has selected 23 local Black musicians and artists from over 600 applicants to receive grants to produce artworks inspired by the…
“I could feel y’all through the camera,” singer-songwriter Jon Batiste said during a break in his Free at Noon performance. “I love you even…
Jon Batiste channels some spirit for an elegant Free at Noon performance
“I could feel y’all through the camera,” singer-songwriter Jon Batiste said during a break in his Free at Noon performance. “I love you even…
Next week, Hiss Golden Messenger performs for our virtual Free at Noon, live from Durham, North Carolina!
Hiss Golden Messenger will preview <em>Quietly Blowing It</em> at next week’s virtual Free At Noon
Next week, Hiss Golden Messenger performs for our virtual Free at Noon, live from Durham, North Carolina!
Friday means new albums and this week our picks feature some longtime XPN favorites, plus a surprise release in the bunch! The always entertaining,…
PRESS PLAY: 6 New Albums Out March 12th!
Friday means new albums and this week our picks feature some longtime XPN favorites, plus a surprise release in the bunch! The always entertaining,…
At this point, it’s redundant to say that the pandemic has been difficult for musicians and live music. The unexpected side-effect, though, has been…
West Philly house venue Luigi’s Mansion releases a series of bootleg cassettes
At this point, it’s redundant to say that the pandemic has been difficult for musicians and live music. The unexpected side-effect, though, has been…
Today on the Leicht Lunch, we’re celebrating the work of legendary bassist Carol Kaye, who turns 86 on March 24th. She’s a musician who,…
An Introduction to The Wrecking Crew’s Carol Kaye: One of rock’s most prolific bassists
Today on the Leicht Lunch, we’re celebrating the work of legendary bassist Carol Kaye, who turns 86 on March 24th. She’s a musician who,…
Singer-songwriter Lois Volta has been making her way around the Philly rock scene for a while now, first catching our attention playing keys and…
Singer-songwriter Lois Volta returns with moving set <em>4 Songs</em>
Singer-songwriter Lois Volta has been making her way around the Philly rock scene for a while now, first catching our attention playing keys and…
Our next virtual Free at Noon is live from New York City as we present a set with Jon Batiste.
Celebrated singer-songwriter Jon Batiste join us for a virtual Free at Noon next Friday
Our next virtual Free at Noon is live from New York City as we present a set with Jon Batiste.
A new month rolls in as does an abundance of new music! Leading the way, for the first time in a handful of years,…
PRESS PLAY: 9 New Albums Out March 5th!
A new month rolls in as does an abundance of new music! Leading the way, for the first time in a handful of years,…
Sharon Van Etten‘s Philly-recorded sophomore album epic turned ten years old back in September. To mark the anniversary of the record that got her…
Lucinda Williams, Fiona Apple, Shamir and more will contribute covers to <em>epic Ten</em>, an anniversary reissue of Sharon Van Etten’s <em>epic</em>
Sharon Van Etten‘s Philly-recorded sophomore album epic turned ten years old back in September. To mark the anniversary of the record that got her…
One of the unfortunate parts of making a cohesive album is realizing when a song just won’t work for it. This was the sad…
Maxwell Stern releases “I Reached Out to the City,” the second B-side track from <em>Impossible Sum</em>
One of the unfortunate parts of making a cohesive album is realizing when a song just won’t work for it. This was the sad…
If you’re hungry or looking for a fun, slightly erratic album, Ron Gallo has you covered. This Friday, the Philly born artist will release…
Ron Gallo releases <em>PEACEMEAL</em> and announces Free Food Day at Repo Records
If you’re hungry or looking for a fun, slightly erratic album, Ron Gallo has you covered. This Friday, the Philly born artist will release…
For International Women’s Day on Monday, March 8th, WXPN is presenting a full day of special programming, featuring nothing but women and non-binary artists…
Celebrate International Women’s Day with WXPN
For International Women’s Day on Monday, March 8th, WXPN is presenting a full day of special programming, featuring nothing but women and non-binary artists…
Rapper lojii just released a new EP as thanks to everyone who helped him save his cat, Taurus. The opening track, “to the ppl…
Listen to lojii’s “loose meditations” in <em>taurus_EP</em>
Rapper lojii just released a new EP as thanks to everyone who helped him save his cat, Taurus. The opening track, “to the ppl…
A repeating guitar motif, some singing, and suddenly you find yourself smack in the middle of the first track of Julian‘s newest EP, Longing.…
Julian’s <em>Longing</em> is brief but intense
A repeating guitar motif, some singing, and suddenly you find yourself smack in the middle of the first track of Julian‘s newest EP, Longing.…
We know that music has played an important part in helping listeners cope during the past 12 months of quarantine, self-isolation, and social distancing…
Announcing <em>Songs That Got Us Through The Year</em>: An interactive day of music on XPN
We know that music has played an important part in helping listeners cope during the past 12 months of quarantine, self-isolation, and social distancing…
Surrounded by ferns and the wood paneling of a Bushkill, Pennsylvania cabin, Jake Ewald of Slaughter Beach, Dog gave a stirring performance for today’s…
Slaughter Beach, Dog brings introspective songs and birthday greetings to Free at Noon
Surrounded by ferns and the wood paneling of a Bushkill, Pennsylvania cabin, Jake Ewald of Slaughter Beach, Dog gave a stirring performance for today’s…
When talking about covers, they usually fall into one of three categories: They live up to the original, they don’t live up to the…
Madison McFerrin promotes healing with her new Radiohead cover
When talking about covers, they usually fall into one of three categories: They live up to the original, they don’t live up to the…
St. Vincent is set to release the follow-up to the 2017 album, Masseduction. In the last few days, pictures of posters promoting a new…
St. Vincent’s next album is inspired by “nihilistic” music of 1970s New York
St. Vincent is set to release the follow-up to the 2017 album, Masseduction. In the last few days, pictures of posters promoting a new…
Get ready for some virtual rock & roll next week as XPN presents The Hold Steady for a live virtual Free at Noon!
The Hold Steady joins us from Brooklyn Bowl for next week’s virtual Free at Noon
Get ready for some virtual rock & roll next week as XPN presents The Hold Steady for a live virtual Free at Noon!
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Selwyn Birchwood on Leo “Bud” Welch
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
It’s a wide-ranging mix of new music this week on our release round-up. Leading the pack, a new album from acclaimed songwriter Julien Baker.…
PRESS PLAY: 8 New Albums Out February 26th!
It’s a wide-ranging mix of new music this week on our release round-up. Leading the pack, a new album from acclaimed songwriter Julien Baker.…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Emily King on The Mills Brothers
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Anna Fox Rochinski has just released the second single from her upcoming solo debut album, Cherry. Her first solo single, “Cherry“, already showed that…
Anna Fox Rochinski settles into the contemplative quiet of “No Better”
Anna Fox Rochinski has just released the second single from her upcoming solo debut album, Cherry. Her first solo single, “Cherry“, already showed that…
Trippy Philadelphia punk band Spirit of the Beehive returns this spring with ENTERTAINMENT, DEATH, their fourth LP and first for Saddle Creek Records. After…
Spirit of the Beehive runs from the dread of boredom in “THE SERVER IS IMMERSED”
Trippy Philadelphia punk band Spirit of the Beehive returns this spring with ENTERTAINMENT, DEATH, their fourth LP and first for Saddle Creek Records. After…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Adia Victoria on Billie Holiday
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Madison McFerrin on Chaka Khan
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
When Questlove made his directorial debut with Summer of Soul, it was met with critical acclaim, winning two different awards at the Sundance Film…
Questlove will explore the life and legacy of Sly Stone in upcoming documentary
When Questlove made his directorial debut with Summer of Soul, it was met with critical acclaim, winning two different awards at the Sundance Film…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Tre Burt on MF Doom
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
February is Black History Month, and it would be an understatement to say that Black music has been the driving force that has propelled…
Culture Cypher Radio February Chart: J Dilla, A Tribe Called Quest, Madlib and the gift of Black music
February is Black History Month, and it would be an understatement to say that Black music has been the driving force that has propelled…
This week, Free at Noon is live at the cabin with Slaughter Beach, Dog! Tune in for a live, virtual performance from their home…
Philly’s Slaughter Beach, Dog will bring their new record <em>At The Moonbase</em> to Free at Noon next week
This week, Free at Noon is live at the cabin with Slaughter Beach, Dog! Tune in for a live, virtual performance from their home…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Bartees Strange on Chad Clark
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Here’s a look and listen to some new albums, out today, that we’re diggin’! Tash Sultana is a magical musician. There is something truly…
PRESS PLAY: 6 New Albums out February 19th!
Here’s a look and listen to some new albums, out today, that we’re diggin’! Tash Sultana is a magical musician. There is something truly…
Last year producer and instrumentalist Lee Clarke teamed up with rapper Ivy Sole and singer/songwriter Kingsley Ibeneche to create a powerful song. “Evaporate” is…
See the conceptual new video for Lee Clarke, Ivy Sole, and Kingsley Ibeneche’s celestial song “Evaporate”
Last year producer and instrumentalist Lee Clarke teamed up with rapper Ivy Sole and singer/songwriter Kingsley Ibeneche to create a powerful song. “Evaporate” is…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Candi Staton on Sam Cooke
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Ben Harper on Jessy Wilson
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Since its release in January 1965, John Coltrane’s masterpiece A Love Supreme remains a landmark recording in American music. The suite and its spiritual connection continues…
WRTI’s special <em>Devotion: A Love Supreme</em>, featuring Orrin Evans trio covering the iconic Coltrane album, comes to XPN Friday
Since its release in January 1965, John Coltrane’s masterpiece A Love Supreme remains a landmark recording in American music. The suite and its spiritual connection continues…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Zeek Burse on Nina Simone
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Jazmine Sullivan on Stevie Wonder
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Our next virtual Free at Noon comes to you live from Nashville, Tennesee — don’t miss a performance from local native Langhorne Slim!
Langhorne Slim will bring his new <em>Strawberry Mansion</em> album to next week’s Free at Noon
Our next virtual Free at Noon comes to you live from Nashville, Tennesee — don’t miss a performance from local native Langhorne Slim!
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Valerie June on Alice Coltrane
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Bobby Rush on Muddy Waters
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
You may have noticed that Dan Cousart made his debut solo release earlier this month. If that release left you eager for more, don’t…
Check out another solo release from RFA’s Dan Cousart
You may have noticed that Dan Cousart made his debut solo release earlier this month. If that release left you eager for more, don’t…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Cory Henry on Sly and the Family Stone
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Greg Sover on Jimi Hendrix
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Nana Adjoa on Mavis Staples
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
In the March 2004 issue of URB Magazine — the now-defunct, Los Angeles-based music publication — Detroit-born producer/rapper James “J Dilla” Yancey appeared on…
Mythos and Emotion: Reflections on J Dilla’s final creative statement, <em>Donuts</em>
In the March 2004 issue of URB Magazine — the now-defunct, Los Angeles-based music publication — Detroit-born producer/rapper James “J Dilla” Yancey appeared on…
Making her Studio 8H debut, Phoebe Bridgers was the musical guest on this week’s Saturday Night Live, delivering a legend-making performance of two highlights…
Watch Phoebe Bridgers destroy SNL with “Kyoto” and “I Know The End”
Making her Studio 8H debut, Phoebe Bridgers was the musical guest on this week’s Saturday Night Live, delivering a legend-making performance of two highlights…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Shemekia Copeland on Ruth Brown
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
We’ve got one of the year’s first “wow” records on our new album round-up this week. #PressPlay on the brand new release from The…
PRESS PLAY: 6 New Albums out February 5th!
We’ve got one of the year’s first “wow” records on our new album round-up this week. #PressPlay on the brand new release from The…
Nostalgia tends to be synonymous with Columbus indie-folk Saintseneca’s sound. With their latest single, and first since 2019, Saintseneca warmingly reminisces on lost time…
Indie-folk faves Saintseneca yearn for togetherness on bittersweet single “All You’ve Got is Everyone”
Nostalgia tends to be synonymous with Columbus indie-folk Saintseneca’s sound. With their latest single, and first since 2019, Saintseneca warmingly reminisces on lost time…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram on O.V. Wright
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Questlove‘s directorial debut, Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), won both the U.S. Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award…
Questlove’s <em>Summer of Soul</em> documentary wins top prizes at Sundance
Questlove‘s directorial debut, Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), won both the U.S. Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Devon Gilfillian on Marvin Gaye
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
We’re headed to the studio with two solo singer-songwriters for the third episode of Unprecedented Sessions — a collaboration between WXPN, Cherry-Veen Zine and…
Episode three of UNPRECEDENTED SESSIONS starring Erin Fox and Eleanor Two airs next week
We’re headed to the studio with two solo singer-songwriters for the third episode of Unprecedented Sessions — a collaboration between WXPN, Cherry-Veen Zine and…
Dan Cousart, best known for his work as the lead singer and songwriter of Philly rockers RFA, just released a two-song, his debut release…
RFA’s Dan Cousart releases his first solo single, “Look Back”
Dan Cousart, best known for his work as the lead singer and songwriter of Philly rockers RFA, just released a two-song, his debut release…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Donn T on Stevie Wonder
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Black Inspirations: Kam Franklin of The Suffers on Luther Vandross
For the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month on XPN, we’re presenting a new series called Black Inspirations. We’ve asked contemporary…
Next Friday, our virtual Free at Noon concert series is live from Austin, Texas with Black Pumas.
Austin psychedelic soul band Black Pumas will play WXPN’s Free at Noon Livestream on February 5th
Next Friday, our virtual Free at Noon concert series is live from Austin, Texas with Black Pumas.
A new weekly program is joining the XPN weeknight schedule this winter. On Wednesday, February 3rd, Rhythm Lab Radio will make its Philadelphia debut…
Introducing Rhythm Lab Radio: An eclectic weekly program from Radio Milwaukee you’ll be able to hear on XPN in 2021
A new weekly program is joining the XPN weeknight schedule this winter. On Wednesday, February 3rd, Rhythm Lab Radio will make its Philadelphia debut…
In honor of Black History Month, we are highlighting and celebrating the significant contributions of Black artists in all genres of music throughout February.
Here’s how we’re celebrating Black History Month on XPN
In honor of Black History Month, we are highlighting and celebrating the significant contributions of Black artists in all genres of music throughout February.
Our shortlist of new albums being released this week is actually … quite long! Don’t miss the debut from XPN “Artist to Watch” Arlo…
Press Play: 9 New Albums Out January 29th!
Our shortlist of new albums being released this week is actually … quite long! Don’t miss the debut from XPN “Artist to Watch” Arlo…
2021; a new year dawning in a beautiful and cruel world. COVID-19 is still with us, snuffing out the lives of our loved ones,…
Culture Cypher Radio January Chart: A new day (same as the old day), an abundance of jewels from MF DOOM, new music by Moor Mother & Billy Woods, The Visionaries, and more
2021; a new year dawning in a beautiful and cruel world. COVID-19 is still with us, snuffing out the lives of our loved ones,…
Philly rap icons The Roots are marking the 26th anniversary of their sophomore album Do You Want More?!!!??! with a new vinyl reissue of…
The Roots are releasing a triple-LP vinyl edition of <em>Do You Want More?!!!??!</em>
Philly rap icons The Roots are marking the 26th anniversary of their sophomore album Do You Want More?!!!??! with a new vinyl reissue of…
Philly rapper Ivy Sole is paying tribute to her favorite songs of recent years in the new Covered video series, launched today on her…
Ivy Sole launches <em>COVERED</em> video project with a reinvention of Snoh Aalegra’s “Whoa”
Philly rapper Ivy Sole is paying tribute to her favorite songs of recent years in the new Covered video series, launched today on her…
Get ready to join us for another virtual Free at Noon…this time, live from Brooklyn, New York with Bed Stuy born-and-raised singer Bette Smith.…
Blues and soul singer Bette Smith will play WXPN’s Free at Noon Livestream on January 29
Get ready to join us for another virtual Free at Noon…this time, live from Brooklyn, New York with Bed Stuy born-and-raised singer Bette Smith.…
This week, we’ve got a handful of new releases cued up for you! To start, we’ll wade into the calm that is the new…
PRESS PLAY: 5 New Albums Out January 22nd!
This week, we’ve got a handful of new releases cued up for you! To start, we’ll wade into the calm that is the new…
We first met them as the vocalists at the front of the local Latin hip-hop outfit Agudos Clef, but Trenton’s Josue Lora and Nota…
Josue Lora and Nota G release solo singles “Rosa” and “Nudo” along with trippy music videos
We first met them as the vocalists at the front of the local Latin hip-hop outfit Agudos Clef, but Trenton’s Josue Lora and Nota…
XPN’s virtual Free at Noon performance comes to you live from Cardiff, Wales, when Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard plays on Friday, January 22nd! A modern…
Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard will play WXPN’s Free at Noon Livestream on January 22
XPN’s virtual Free at Noon performance comes to you live from Cardiff, Wales, when Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard plays on Friday, January 22nd! A modern…
WXPN has launched Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms & the Music of New Orleans, a year long project that will explore the continuing impact Haiti has…
Introducing Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms <b>&</b> the Music of New Orleans
WXPN has launched Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms & the Music of New Orleans, a year long project that will explore the continuing impact Haiti has…
David Bowie’s longest-standing band member Mike Garson will host a livestream concert in honor of the late musician this Friday, January 8. A Bowie…
Celebrate David Bowie’s 74th birthday tonight with Macy Gray, Boy George, Trent Reznor and more
David Bowie’s longest-standing band member Mike Garson will host a livestream concert in honor of the late musician this Friday, January 8. A Bowie…
Jazmine Sullivan‘s first project since 2015, Heaux Tales, is out today via RCA Records. The Philly singer-songwriter teased the release earlier in the week…
Jazmine Sullivan worked with H.E.R. on “Girl Like Me” from <em>Heaux Tales</em>
Jazmine Sullivan‘s first project since 2015, Heaux Tales, is out today via RCA Records. The Philly singer-songwriter teased the release earlier in the week…
2021 is upon us and a fresh batch of new releases are too! Piggybacking on the recent HBO documentary about The Bee Gees, Barry…
PRESS PLAY: 5 New Albums Out January 8th!
2021 is upon us and a fresh batch of new releases are too! Piggybacking on the recent HBO documentary about The Bee Gees, Barry…
Submissions are now being accepted for Black Music City, a joint project between WXPN, WRTI, and REC Philly that will direct $30,000 in grant…
Learn more about the Black Music City project with host Suzann Christine
Submissions are now being accepted for Black Music City, a joint project between WXPN, WRTI, and REC Philly that will direct $30,000 in grant…
Happy New Year! We spent the first day of 2021 counting down the top 100 most played songs of 2020 all day on XPN.…
XPN’s Top 100 Most-Played Songs of 2020
Happy New Year! We spent the first day of 2021 counting down the top 100 most played songs of 2020 all day on XPN.…