Minnesota has claim to a wealth of creativity; music is no exception. Almost every genre can be heard within our state’s borders. The results range from a simple act of joy, to an influence that reverberates far beyond (the “Minneapolis Sound” is a prime example). The collection below is an introduction to the diverse and talented artists who have called Minnesota home, and the art they share with all of us.
November 6, 1992 - MPR’s Bill Wareham presents a profile on Minneapolis band Soul Asylum. Wareham interviewed band members on their break into the national scene with album “Grave Dancers Union” on Columbia Records.
December 7, 1992 - MPR’s Leif Enger reports on travelling educators who have created a musical road school in Northern Minnesota. Enger interviews both educator and student alike on this newfound access in learning how to play an instrument.
December 11, 1992 - MPR’s Liz Hannon interviews Ann Reed, Minnesota songwriter, singer, and guitarist. Reed shares her process of songwriting and performs songs “Hole in the Day” and “Too Much Trouble.”
December 30, 1992 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews Jim Walsh, local songwriter and music editor at City Pages, about Minnesota rockers that made a national impact in 1992. Walsh notes bands such as Soul Asylum, The Jayhawks, Sugar, and Cows.
February 5, 1993 - On this First Friday program, a collection of stories including Stepin Fetchet, trend-watching, can poetry matter?, barn poetry, stress of racism, who music serves, snowboarding terms, “Thank You, M’am,” and minor league baseball stadiums.
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.
May 1, 1993 - MPR’s Annie Baxter interviews an electronic musician who compiled a piece titled August: 1990 as a commentary to politics and media during the Gulf War.
May 14, 1993 - MPR’s Liz Hannon interviews members of Quintessence, a Minneapolis folk-jazz-world fusion combo. Segment also includes music clips of the band.
June 18, 1993 - MPR’s Bob Kelleher reports from Duluth on local bands performing along Grandma’s Marathon course in support of the runners. Kelleher interviews race coordinator and various members of bands playing during race.
August 13, 1993 - MPR’s Joelle Audette reports on a week long camp at Hoot Owl Resort in Bemidji, where The Borderline Philharmonic gather and perform every summer.