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.
August 2, 1994 - MPR’s Euan Kerr profiles Minneapolis "found object" band Savage Aural Hotbed. Kerr interviews members of group about their instrument creations and the sounds they make.
August 20, 1994 - MPR’s Chris Roberts interviews author Neal Karlen about his book “Babes in Toyland: The Making and Selling of a Rock and Roll Band." Karlen discusses his experiences following the band during the creation and reaction of Babes in Toyland’s first album.
August 29, 1994 - MPR’s Cathy Wurzer hosts local musicians Prudence Johnson, Gary Rue, American jazz violinist Randy Sabien at MPR’s Minnesota State Fair booth. Wurzer interviews group, who also perform for live audience.
November 23, 1994 - MPR’s John Rabe profiles Edina alternative country trio The Carpetbaggers. Rabe interviews band members Mike Crabtree, John Magnuson, and Rich Copley. They discuss rockabilly and influential country artists.
November 24, 1994 - MPR’s John Rabe interviews Minnesota singer-songwriter Barbara Cohen about “Dark Houses” album. Cohen also discusses source material behind songs, and local collaborations.
December 2, 1994 - MPR’s Beth Friend reports from Lee’s Liquor Lounge to interview members of the local country band Trailer Trash. Segment includes excerpt of band performing.
December 17, 1994 - William Eddins, assistant conductor for Minnesota Orchestra, plays the piano and answers listener questions about music appreciation, broadcast from MPR's Maud Moon Weyerhaueser Music Studio.
January 30, 1995 - MPR’s Catherine Winter interviews Duluth musician Leslie Ball, who talks about her album “Loring Park” and her development as an artist.
March 17, 1995 - Mainstreet Radio’s Leif Enger reports from Black & White Cafe in Little Falls, Minnnesota. Between burgers, patrons enjoy a rarity in the area, live jazz nights. Enger interviews cafe owner, one of the musicians, and a diner.
March 31, 1995 - MPR’s John Rabe presents The South Minneapolis Bassoon Quartet, who are promoting their all-bassoon radio station. The group perform various ‘world-premiere’ pieces and discuss the potential programming of “WMBQ” station for elite double reed aficionados.