Today we talk with James Gavin, author of Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne. Gavin shares insights into Horne's trailblazing of the entertainment industry as well as her troubled past. Also: indie hip-hop group Tanya Morgan joins us for a live in-studio performance.
The Art and Life of Lena Horne
Lena Horne broke down barriers for African Americans in the 20th century, performing in all-white nightclubs at a time when blacks were still relegated to the back of the bus. But according to a new biography, the award-winning Brooklyn-born singer also battled discrimination and self-doubt. We talk with James Gavin, ...
Soundcheck's Picks of the Week
Jonsi & Alex – Riceboy Sleeps (XL Records) - Picked by John Schaefer
Céu – Vagarosa (Six Degrees) – picked by Gisele Regatao
The Phenomenal Handclap Band (s/t) (Friendly Fire) – picked by Joel Meyer
Céu – Vagarosa (Six Degrees) – picked by Gisele Regatao
The Phenomenal Handclap Band (s/t) (Friendly Fire) – picked by Joel Meyer
Where Brooklyn and Cincinnati Merge
The hip hop trio Tanya Morgan hails from Brooklyn and Cincinnati, and naturally their new album is called Brooklynati. The loose concept album is built around a fictional city that honors hip-hop giants and offers a chance at the good life. MCs Von Pea and Donwill join us for a ...