What makes a song a smash? Talent? Luck? Timing? All that—and more. Chris Molanphy, pop-chart analyst and author of Slate’s “Why Is... more
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Episodes
That damned jingle! In that infernal commercial trying to sell you cars, sneakers, soda, gum! Can’t get it out of... more
You know her honorific: Queen of Soul. And heavy is the head that wears the crown. In her lifetime, Aretha... more
You know her honorific: Queen of Soul. And heavy is the head that wears the crown. In her lifetime, Aretha... more
U2 have millions of admirers—and haters: from the fans who regard them as rock’s conscience, to the cynics who blanch... more
U2 have millions of admirers—and haters: from the fans who regard them as rock’s conscience, to the cynics who blanch... more
A decade ago, Rolling Stone magazine called 1984 “Pop’s Greatest Year.” A bold statement…but a lot of critics agree. A... more
A decade ago, Rolling Stone magazine called 1984 “Pop’s Greatest Year.” A bold statement…but a lot of critics agree. A... more
For decades—literally since Woodstock—female musicians had battled music-industry perceptions that amassing too many of them, on the radio or on... more
For decades—literally since Woodstock—female musicians had battled music-industry perceptions that amassing too many of them, on the radio or on... more
“Summer in the City.” “I Feel the Earth Move.” “Bette Davis Eyes.” “Whoomp! There It Is.” “Get Lucky.” “Espresso.” What... more