Music

Stories about the artists and objects that define the soundtracks of our lives

The Bangles’ Susanna Hoffs Wrote the Book (Literally)

With the publication of her debut novel, the musician sings the praises of trying new things and giving yourself permission to take big risks.

Words by T. Cole Rachel, Photography by Sean Sullivan

A Dinner Date With Judy Collins

Over a meal at New York City’s famed Carlyle Hotel, the folk-music legend opens up about activism, songwriting, and always seeking balance.

Words by T. Cole Rachel, Photography by Sinna Nasseri

The Enduring Power of Alicia Keys

The iconic star on the past, present, and plans for the future, including a new collaboration with Hennessy Paradis.

Words by Alex Frank

A Dinner Date With Michael Stipe

Over a meal at one of his favorite restaurants in New York City, the former R.E.M. front man dishes on creativity, vulnerability, and his love of food.

Words by T. Cole Rachel, Photography by Sinna Nasseri

Turn It Up

The Bang & Olufsen Beogram turntable.

Words by T. Cole Rachel, Photography by Robin Broadbent

Handmade and Full of Soul

Brian DeRan on trading the music industry for the Mojave Desert.

Words by Jennifer Piejko, Photography by Vincent Perini

Going for Baroque

Boston’s Handel and Haydn Society takes the idea of the orchestra all the way back to its historically informed roots.

Words by Michael Andor Brodeur, Photography by George Etheredge

Krause checking the audio capture once the dawn chorus concluded.

The Natural Symphony

Soundscape ecologist Bernie Krause teaches the world how to listen — and be quiet.

Words by Annette Lamothe-Ramos, Photography by Vincent Perini

How to Write a Love Song

Hitmaker Diane Warren unpacks the complicated alchemy involved in penning the perfect ballad.

words by T. Cole Rachel, photography by arianna lago

Tokyo to Sapporo by Train

Musician Blu DeTiger on street food, hard-to-get-to places, and travel purchases.

Words by Blu DeTiger, Illustration by Victoria Rosselli

Hear and Now

Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay A9 is the speaker of your dreams.

words by t. cole rachel, illustration by Ahonen & Lamberg

Under the Covers

Musician Chan Marshall — better known as Cat Power — on the songs that call to her and what comes next.

words by t. cole rachel; photography by elinor carucci, patrick o'dell, and greg hunt