Now He’s Amazed Now He’s Amazed
A stalwart critic of Paul McCartney becomes a fan.
Jun 22, 2016 / David Hajdu
A James Brown Book Like No Other A James Brown Book Like No Other
Kill ’Em and Leave is a stunningly unorthodox book, indifferent to the conventions of biographical nonfiction.
Jun 16, 2016 / Books & the Arts / David Hajdu
The Odd Couple The Odd Couple
Through their editorial work on the writings of Walter Benjamin, Theodor Adorno and Gershom Scholem forged an unlikely friendship.
Jun 9, 2016 / Books & the Arts / Peter E. Gordon
Old Locks and Irregular Pounds Old Locks and Irregular Pounds
Henry Threadgill’s improvisations are adventurous, though never at the expense of human feeling.
Jun 3, 2016 / David Hajdu
A Blues for Albert Murray A Blues for Albert Murray
His name was never household familiar. Yet his complex, mind-opening analysis of art and life remains as timely as ever—probably more so.
May 16, 2016 / Books & the Arts / Thomas Chatterton Williams
Beyoncé With the Good Art Beyoncé With the Good Art
Is it possible that the most hyped pop performer of our era could also be avant-garde?
May 9, 2016 / Erin Vanderhoof
A Violent Room A Violent Room
Why did the movie Purple Rain want or perhaps need to produce and reprise a particular fantasy of interraciality?
May 6, 2016 / Books & the Arts / Joshua Clover
The Extra Ordinary Bryson Tiller The Extra Ordinary Bryson Tiller
Despite his laconic demeanor, lowered expectations, and swag-proof wardrobe, the singer has still managed to create a platinum-selling album.
May 2, 2016 / Frank Guan
Start Making Sense: Could Donald Trump Actually Win Some of Bernie’s Supporters? Start Making Sense: Could Donald Trump Actually Win Some of Bernie’s Supporters?
Plus, why Trump loves talking about “political correctness,” and what makes Prince a gay icon.
Apr 28, 2016 / Podcast / Start Making Sense and Jon Wiener
Prince: The Moment’s End Prince: The Moment’s End
The artist was a creative force who seemed constitutionally incapable of not making music.
Apr 22, 2016 / David Hajdu