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
Prince Recognized That ‘if There Ain’t No Justice, Then There Ain’t No Peace’ Prince Recognized That ‘if There Ain’t No Justice, Then There Ain’t No Peace’
Prince was always about more than politics, but he called for disarmament, rallied for peace, and announced that “black lives... still matter.”
Apr 21, 2016 / John Nichols
Good Night, Sweet Prince Good Night, Sweet Prince
The death of the musical legend has me reeling, and remembering vividly what it was like the one time I was in his presence.
Apr 21, 2016 / Dave Zirin