Every June 16, hip-hop fans pause to remember Tupac Shakur, but for many of us, his presence never really left. His voice still lives in the records, in the conversations, and in the way artists speak truth through music. Tupac was never just a rapper. He was a poet with scars, a storyteller with fire, and a cultural force who knew how to turn pain into power. His birthday is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of how deeply his words still move the culture.

When Sonny Rollins died at 95, jazz lost more than a master improviser; it lost one of its clearest examples of artistic courage. Few musicians sounded so unmistakably like themselves. His tenor tone could be huge and playful one moment, searching and severe the next, and through it all came the sense of a mind testing every idea in real time. Rollins did not simply extend the language of modern jazz. He made improvisation feel newly alive—open, risky, and full of wit.

At Back on the Block, we celebrate the artists who gave shape and feeling to the soundtrack of our lives. Today, we remember Peabo Bryson with gratitude, admiration, and love. Rest in peace to one of the finest to ever grace a microphone.

he "vinyl revival" crept into pop culture in 2007, and new generations are becoming acquainted with it still today. Their reasons might not be for the pure sound quality that those who grew up with the music medium most appreciate,

The holiday season calls for music that lifts your spirits, sparks memories, and sets the perfect mood for every moment of your day. The RadioActive1 WBOB brings you a unique holiday playlist featuring some of the finest artists across jazz, R&B, soul, hip-hop, and pop. From December 1 through January 1, immerse yourself in a rich blend of sounds that celebrate the season with style and soul.

he Recorder sat down with Bridget Townsend, executive director of The Performing Arts Conservatory, ahead of the Nov. 22 performance to learn more about what makes “The Nutcracker Story” unique and how production, writing and directing skills can benefit the next generation of theater professionals.

From classic car songs to slow-rolling rap jams to precision-tuned pop bangers, here is the perfect playlist to get you rolling toward the horizon

Smooth Jazz Halloween is the world’s first and only immersive Halloween-themed jazz platform created by Jarez, one of the top smooth jazz saxophonists in the world. This project is a celebration of sound, soul, and spooky storytelling — combining neon-lit visuals, futuristic jazz sounds, interactive experiences, and live events throughout October.

Starting your own internet radio station is an exciting journey. It’s a chance to share your favorite music, local news, and community stories with listeners who crave something fresh and authentic.

Neo-soul has carved a unique niche in the music world, blending the smoothness of classic soul with contemporary rhythms and thoughtful...

In the evolving landscape of audio entertainment, a fresh wave is sweeping through the airwaves, captivating listeners who crave more...

Music has always been a powerful force, weaving its way through our lives and shaping our moods. Today, the way we access music has evolved dramatically, thanks to streaming radio technology. This innovation has transformed how we listen, discover, and connect with sounds from around the world.

Samantha Morton plays a mute survivor in the near future in a bold blend of sci-fi and nonfiction inspired by Chris Marker’s 1962 film La Jetée

Roy Ayers, the vibraphonist, composer, and all-around musical genius, left an indelible mark on the world of jazz-funk, soul, and R&B. His music, with its hypnotic grooves and rich instrumentation, defined an era and transcended generations. Ayers’ impact didn’t stop at jazz-funk—his rhythms, melodies, and unmistakable style heavily influenced hip-hop and R&B musicians over the years.

Recently, while driving and tuning into the RadioActive1, a jam played that I hadn't heard in ages. It was a track by one of my favorite female vocalists, the beautiful, enchanting, and incredibly talented Phyllis Hyman.

Bootsy's endless alter-egos - Boot-Tron, Zillatron, King of the Geepies, Bootdullivan, Bedroom Bootsy, and, of course, Bootzilla - have always battled for space inside the funk pioneer's brain.

Stephanie Mills is one of those voices that sticks with you. From the moment she sings her first note, you feel it—not just in your ears, bu

Paul Taylor, a leading name in the smooth jazz genre, has returned with an incredible new release! On February 28, 2025, he unveiled It's a

Gil Scott-Heron's name may not always dominate discussions about hip hop's most significant figures, yet his influence resonates deeply with

Roberta Flack, the silky-voiced singer who stole hearts throughout the 1970s, made an unforgettable impact on the music scene and pop cultur