Soundcheck

Charlie Louvin (charlielouvinbros.com)

When East Doesn't Meet West

Thursday, March 08, 2007

At a time of ever-growing diversity in popular culture, some are wondering: where is the Asian-American Justin Timberlake? Or Christine Aguilera? We look at what some believe is American pop culture's avoidance of potential Asian-American stars. Also: 80-year-old country music veteran Charlie Louvin joins us with a live performance. Finally: How better sound quality may become a larger concern for digital download stores.

Listen to the whole show

Where are the Asian-Americans?

Why isn't there an Asian Justin Timberlake, if there is a Shakira and a Beyonce? Jeff Yang, a Chinese American writer who is the "Asian Pop" columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle web site; and Wendy Ip, a Chinese-Canadian singer/songwriter.

Wendy Ip's Web site

Charlie Louvin Country

Country veteran Charlie Louvin recently was coaxed by New York's Tompkins Square label to record his first album in a decade. It features guest appearances by Elvis Costello, George Jones, Wilco's Jeff Tweedy and others. He joins us with a live performance.

Charlie Louvin's Web site

Downloading better sound quality

Music lovers have been so preoccupied by the convenience of downloading music that sound quality hasn't been much of a priority. But the honeymoon could be ending, says Wired magazine's Eliot Van Buskirk. He joins us to explain why.

Music Labels' Ace in the Hole by Eliot Van Buskirk