Library Of Congress
In the 1930s, an ethnomusicologist tried to preserve the history of immigration in California — and combat anti-immigrant feelings — with song
A new project is building on that collection, but this time with a much more inclusive catalog.
"I Will Survive:" The Best Song to Grace a B-Side
When Gloria Gaynor recorded the B-side to her 1978 single, she knew it was a hidden hit.
“Mary, Don’t You Weep”: the Life of a Song
In the 1950s, the Swan Silvertones turned the old spiritual “Mary, Don’t You Weep” into a recording that has inspired everyone from Paul Simon to Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
Gene Luen Yang, Ambassador from the Land of Comics
Graphic novelist Gene Luen Yang is the new national ambassador for young people’s literature — the first comics artist to hold that post.
"Sorry, Wrong Number"
“Sorry, Wrong Number” broke all the rules of radio drama by killing off its main character — a harmless, if unpleasant, bedridden woman.
Sly and the Family Stone Want You to Stand Up
In 1969, Sly and The Family Stone provided a funky soundtrack to the fight for freedom and equality. It’s just as relevant now as it was then.
Linda Ronstadt: “Heart Like a Wheel”
Linda Ronstadt’s “Heart Like a Wheel” made her a household name. Now it’s in the National Recording Registry.
Celia & Johnny: They Invented Salsa
As Latin music was fading from popular culture, a blend of Caribbean rhythms going by the name salsa got a new generation dancing.