John Morrison joins host Raina Douris

Throughout Black History Month, World Cafe correspondent John Morrison is showcasing trailblazers and mavericks of Black music; artists who took risks and pushed boundaries. This week, John discusses the visionary composer, poet, and bandleader Sun Ra, and talks about his experimentation as well as his widespread influence.

Listen to the session here.

Today’s Playlist

Stevie Wonder “Don’t You Worry Bout A Thing” Innervisions

Sun Ra “Where Pathways Meet” Lanquity

The Cosmic Rays with the Sun Ra Arkestra “Dreaming” (single)

Sun Ra “Discipline 99” Astro Black

Sun Ra Arkestra “Door of the Cosmos” Swirling

The Felice Brothers “Jazz On The Autobahn” From Dreams to Dust

Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge “Tell Me Why U Do That” Wine on Venus

Leon Bridges “Smooth Sailin'” Coming Home

Billie Eilish “Birds of a Feather” Hit Me Hard and Soft

Psychedelic Furs “Pretty In Pink” Talk Talk Talk

Hour Two
Bruce Springsteen “Letter To You” Letter To You

Panda Bear “Ferry Lady” Sinister Grift

Jimmy Cliff “You Can Get It If You Really Want” The Harder They Come

Cage The Elephant “Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked” Cage The Elephant

Father John Misty “She Cleans Up: Mahashmashana

Eric Burdon “House of The Rising Sun” WC Recording

Elvis Costello & Allen Toussaint “Sharpest Thorn” WC Recording

Kim Deal “Coast” Nobody Loves You More

Gary Numan “Cars” The Pleasure Principle

Leif Vollebekk “Rock and Roll” Revelation

Meg Mac “Roll Up You Sleeves” Meg Mac EP

Ray Lamontagne “Forever My Friend” Trouble

Julien Baker & Torres “Sugar in the Tank” (single)