Listening Guide Archives

Stefan Wyeth February 13, 2025

Synthesizers in music production brought about a massive cultural shift. Take a trip into this groundbreaking genre.

Nate Duchene January 24, 2025

Jim Keltner has been a go-to session drummer since the ’70s. From ex-Beatles to Bob Dylan to Steely Dan, here’s a taste of the legendary player.

Ari Rosenschein January 20, 2025

The trailblazer combined synthesizers, tight songwriting chops, and an evolving glam sci-fi image. Probe the outer limits of his discography.

Andy Thomas January 3, 2025

Broken beat was created by a community of producers with roots in London’s various club scenes. Here are some of the genre’s foundational records.

Adam Douglas June 10, 2024

One of the most distinctive polys of the ’80s, the JX-3P is the secret sauce on tracks from movie themes to quirky indie cuts.

Adam Douglas February 6, 2024

The D-50 ushered in a new era of popular music that crossed all genres. Hear the synth in action with this varied selection of tracks.

Alexander Dias October 19, 2023

Stones Throw Records challenges perceptions, demonstrating how a scrappy indie can create a deep cultural impact. Explore these essentials.

Christine Ochefu September 21, 2023

The past decade saw hip-hop go stratospheric. This playlist highlights tracks that helped the genre dominate the international stage.

Christine Ochefu September 9, 2023

In hip-hop history, the early 2000s represent the point when the genre began to have fun. Explore these standout tracks of the era.

Jake Uitti August 10, 2023

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, listen to these ten essential songs from the sound’s golden era, the 1990s.