Black music has been a powerful and influential force in Minnesota. Most know of the Minneapolis sound, but there has been a wealth of creativity coming from Black artists in the state for decades, with a breadth of genres that is impressive. MPR Archive presents a sampling of stories from years past to introduce…or re-introduce to Minnesota music lovers.
November 9, 1984 - MPR’s Jo Ann Shroyer profiles Minnesota jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator Irv Williams. Shroyer interviews Williams about his career, the local jazz scene, and on being honored with “Irv Williams Day” on November 24th.
December 26, 1984 - MPR’s Stephen Smith profiles Prince Rogers Nelson. Segment includes interview with critic Jon Bream, author of the book "Prince: Inside the Purple Reign," and local evangelists who find Prince’s music offensive.
September 27, 1985 - MPR’s Doug Hamilton talks with music critic Marton Keller about the 4th annual Minnesota Black Music Awards. Keller discusses the “Minneapolis Sound.”
September 25, 1986 - MPR’s Beth Friend profiles Minneapolis songwriters/producers Jimmy Jam Harris and Terry Lewis, also known as Flyte Tyme Productions. Friend interviews Harris and Lewis about their partnership, and collaborations with musicians. They also discuss the lack of local radio airplay of black music. Segment includes music clips of songs produced by studio.
September 10, 1987 - MPR’s Mike Mulcahy reports on a tour of Prince’s Paisley Park by visiting foreign officials as a way to promote the Twin Cities.
July 25, 1988 - MPR’s Euan Kerr reports on KTCA-TV documentary “The Minneapolis Sound.” Kerr interviews producer and host Emily Goldberg about the project.
September 15, 1988 - MPR’s Bill Wareham talks with Gary Eichten about Prince’s September 14th concert at Met Center in Bloomington. Wareham shares his thoughts of experience and of the Minnesota artist.
June 13, 1989 - MPR’s Mike Mulcahy reports on rock star Prince's theatrical songs for the Tim Burton movie “Batman.” Mulcahy interviews individuals in the music industry about album release.
August 13, 1992 - Excerpt of “White Chocolate” by performance artist and playwright Laurie Carlos.
February 27, 1993 - MPR’s Elizabeth Stawicki profiles the Minnesota music group Sounds of Blackness. Report includes interviews with founder Russell Knighton and black students of Macalester College.