Nation Topics - Charlie Parker | The Nation

Thelonious Monk was a more nuanced figure than the flimsy characterization of a way-out jazz cat could ever convey.

The subtle sounds of this saxophonist defy definition.

Ben Ratliff's not-quite biography of John Coltrane considers the jazz legend's enduring influence.

Listening to Sonny Rollins for the first time. Again.

Nearly fifty years after Ornette Coleman revolutionized jazz, he is finally being honored with the music world's top awards.

Jay-Z, self-styled savior of hip-hop, is the face of the new establishment.

Basquiat in Brooklyn.

On the morning of November 25, 1970, the body of a young African-American male was recovered from the foot of the Congress Street Pier in Brooklyn.

After Ronald Reagan's death, Ray Charles's version of "Amazing Grace," one of Reagan's favorite songs, kept popping up on radio and TV. Why not?

I know, you're too hip to see Troy.