Blog: music

5 Ways to Commemorate the Summer of Soul

In 1969, over the course of six Sundays the Harlem Cultural Festival was born. Filling Harlem with the mighty sounds of Mahalia Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly and The Family Stone, and Gladys Knight and the Pips just to name a few.

15 Great Underground Hip Hop Albums

Whether you’ve avoided hip hop in the past or are simply looking for something fresh for your playlist, these artists’ approach to production, rhythm, flow, and lyrics are sure to send you down the endless rabbit hole of independent and underground hip hop. 

My Life in Black Music

From my lens, the deep impact and role that Black music has played in the experiences of the underrepresented, in social justice, celebrations, faith, as a unifying force, and for all people globally, deserves recognition 365 days of the year.

The Enduring Influence of Rance Allen

Just as Thomas Dorsey, “the Father of Gospel,” merged jazz and blues with gospel to mesmerizing effect, Rance Allen used the music he was exposed to during his youth – rhythm & blues, jazz and rock & roll – to shape a style that was the foundation for contemporary gospel music.

The Power of Music

Music has the power to bring joy, happiness and encourage healthy childhood development.

So You Still Say You Hate Musicals

Thanks to the new streaming movie, everyone's talking about Hamilton again. But you feel left out of the conversation because you hate musicals. Let us help.

Happy Little Trees: A Playlist

A collection of songs that are not thought of as happy songs in the traditional sense, but are uplifting just the same. This post includes classics and lesser known gems from musical groups and/or musicians like The Monkees, Bill Withers, Nick Drake, The Mountain Goats, Outkast and many more.

Replace Bad Habits With New Skills

Get a jump start on your resolutions for the new year! Trying to change a not-so-great habit? Replace it with something new, and let your library help!

Libraries are for Leisure

Libraries don't always have to be serious places of quiet study. A lot of what the Library does is about having fun.

A Library Card for the Digital Age

Does your smartphone or tablet go wherever you go? Why not take your Library with you too! With our new eMedia card, you can borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies & more - without having to visit us in person.

33 Songs About The Rain

April showers bring May flowers...and apparently a whole lot of musical inspiration too, as heard in these songs about the rain!

Bob Dylan Turns 75

Bob Dylan turns 75! Continue reading to learn more about this timeless musician.

We Will, We Will Rock You … To Sleep?!

Songs from popular musicians are turned into plinky, plunky instrumental lullabies with a few bells and barks thrown in for good measure. It’s soothing music for your little ones that won’t drive you crazy.