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From Starmaker to Celebrity
Music producers once were studio wizards who stayed behind the scenes. Now, producers like Kanye West and Timbaland are performers as well as hitmakers. Today, a look at the changing role of the producer in pop music. And, a conversation with producer Mark Ronson about his new solo album, "Version." Plus: the Finnish folk singer Sinikka Langeland performs live in our studio.
Hurdling the Wall of Sound
A new generation of producers is stepping out of the recording studio and into the limelight. Ann Powers, chief pop music critic of the Los Angeles Times, explains how the role of the producer is changing -- and why the new skill set recalls a different era.
Mark Ronson
He helmed most of Amy Winehouse’s "Back to Black" album, including the hit "Rehab." He's worked with Lily Allen, Christina Aguilera and even Bob Dylan. Now Mark Ronson has set his sights on solo stardom with his second full-length, Version. We talk with this party DJ turned producer about his unusual cover album, which features guest spots from Winehouse, Allen and from beyond the grave, Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
Sinikka Langeland
On her new album, "Starflowers," Finnish folk singer Sinikka Langeland mixes traditional sounds -- such as the kantele, a table harp -- with Nordic jazz. Her lyrics are drawn from the poetry of a 20th-century forest wood-cutter. She performs live in our studio.
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We have invited musicians and artists to help us select their favorite cultural destination in the neighborhood where they live. From parks and coffee shops to bowling alleys and museums, the options are as diverse as our group of contributors.
