In video roundups past, we’ve returned to different years in our station’s history. And there have been some truly historic moments. Like ten years ago when Hozier first charmed us with “Take Me to Church,” or five years ago when Clairo recorded her hit “Bags” for World Cafe.

This week, we look back at what music we loved just three years ago, when I’m sure we all remember well, our country was still navigating a global pandemic. The following videos are filmed at a distance for that reason. But even though they weren’t recorded in our studio, these songs resonate, and would all make excellent choices for some of the Greatest Songs of the 21st Century. Cast your vote here now.

Zach Bryan – Free At Noon Concert (Virtual)

While country superstar Zach Bryan was busy rising to fame, he taped this compelling Free At Noon concert for us in 2021. Hopefully one day we can have him back in person.

Bartees Strange | WXPN Winter Sessions

Bartees Strange would later go on to play XPoNential Festival ’22 when we were all well enough to be together again in person.

Arlo Parks – 4 Song Set (Recorded Live for World Cafe)

In 2023, Arlo Parks was one of our favorite performers at NON-COMM. But back in 2021, when this World Cafe session aired, Parks had recently won the coveted Mercury Prize.

The Avett Brothers – World Cafe At Home Session

This next video contains a song that may well crack this writer’s list of Greatest Songs of the 21st Century: the haunting “I And Love And You” from their beautiful 2009 record of the same name.

Kevin Morby – 4 Song Set (Recorded Live for World Cafe At Home)

And finally, this charming session is straight from Kevin Morby’s backyard, featuring 4 songs from his brilliant record Sundowner. 

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This week’s Video Roundup is made possible with support from Rafferty Subaru. Subaru Loves the Earth.