JPR Music

Sometimes a cover song is so good, so singular that it completely eclipses the original version. Think Sinéad O'Connor doing Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U.” On this week’s All Songs Considered, NPR Music shares some of its picks for cover songs that are better than the originals and explores what, exactly, a cover song needs to become a classic.

The Grateful Dead understood the importance of recording its legacy. A number of archivists and historians are dedicated to maintaining the band's immense collection of music and memorabilia.

The Grateful Dead endured an original run of 30 years, but its appeal has survived just as long in a world where the band no longer exists. The question now is not whether the music will continue, but how?

America's darling diva pairs up with the banjo guru of our time for a set of old Appalachian songs about love, loss and the sturdy hope for better times.

Overcoming crippling stage-fright as a kid, Bonnie Paine became a founding member of the Colorado-based folk ensemble, Elephant Revival. Her debut solo release features a line-up of familiar names including Gregory Alan Isakov, Brittany Hass, and Rising Appalachia.

On his new album, Aaron Lee Tasjan had to overcome a serious case of imposter syndrome. He got advice from the late Todd Snider.

Plus, Avalon Emerson & The Charm perform songs from the band's latest album, Written Into Changes.

Gracie Abrams, one of today's biggest new singer-songwriters, has polarized critics with her confessional writing and A-list upbringing. Why do people care so much that she is taking up space?

You could look at Foreign Tongues, the Rolling Stones' 25th album, as a tour of the group's musical variations. But it mixes reliable fun and remarkable energy with a generous attitude toward aging.

From a troubled childhood, Allison Russell has emerged as a powerful advocate for the healing power of art.

The visa process for visiting artists has always been complicated and expensive. Under the current administration, it's gotten significantly worse.

After four decades as a founding member of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Flea goes solo with a stellar jazz band.