Soundcheck

Outkast

Southern-Fried Hip Hop

Monday, May 14, 2007

For years, hip hop was preoccupied with warring factions of artists based on the East and West coasts. Today, we look at the innovators from the American South who rose above it — and set the tone for hip-hop in the 21st century. Also: guitarist Benjamin Verdery talks about his love for composers like Bach, Strauss... and Hendrix. Finally, we find out why Serbian power balladeer Marija Serifovic triumphed at the Eurovision song contest Saturday night.

Listen to the whole show

Making the case for Southern hip-hop

If you need an affirmation of regional culture in the US, Southern hip-hop is a good place to look. In his book Third Coast, Roni Sarig traces dozens of genres that stem from their specific locations including Atlanta crunk, Miami bass, Houston screwed & chopped and others. He joins us today.

Third Coast at Amazon.com

Benjamin Verdery

Benjamin Verdery tours throughout the world and has been chair of the guitar dpartment at the Yale University School of Music since 1985. Today he shares his new album with us, "Branches," featuring works by Bach, Mozart, Strauss, Hendrix, and "Amazing Grace."

Benjamin Verdery's Web site

Serb Wins Eurovision Over Ukrainian Drag Queen

Balladeer Marija Serifovic has emerged as this year's victor at the world's biggest and most flamboyant music competition, the Eurovision Song Contest. Today we hear she beat out tough contenders from Hungary, Greece, Belarus, and Finland as we're joined by Time Out New York editor Elizabeth Vincentelli.

Eurovision Top Five
1. Serbia (268 points)
2. Ukraine (235)
3. Russia (207)
4. Turkey (163)
5. Bulgaria (157)

Marija Serifovic sings "Molitva"
Serbian ballad wins at Eurovision (BBC)