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.
April 23, 1996 - MPR’s Chris Roberts presents a profile of new Minneapolis band Semisonic. Roberts interviews drummer Jacob Slichter, who shares thoughts about the band, the album “Great Divide,” and the record industry.
July 3, 1996 - Chris Roberts profiles St. Paul’s local "alterna-country" band The Honeydogs. Roberts talks with singer-songwriter Adam Levy about his band, songs from their indie album, and a potential signing to a major label.
July 22, 1996 - In this Voices of Minnesota interview, Dave Ray, blues vocalist and guitarist, talks about his life in music.
July 22, 1996 - In this Voices of Minnesota interview, Dave Ray, blues vocalist and guitarist, talks about his life in music.
August 8, 1996 - MPR’s Laura McCallum reports on Gregorian chant workshop held at St. Johns in Collegeville. McCallum interviews various performers and instructors about program.
August 30, 1996 - MPR’s Greta Cunningham talks with American singer-songwriter Peter Himmelman. Songs from “Stage Diving” album are discussed, among other topics.
September 25, 1996 - MPR’s Todd Moe interviews Swedish folk fiddler Paul Dahlin, who was honored with a 1995 Heritage Fellowship Award. Dahlin, a Minneapolis native, discusses the efforts of the American Swedish Institute to preserve folk music.
October 22, 1996 - MPR’s Chris Roberts interviews Paul Robb, former member of Information Society. Robb discusses various sub-genres; bands Brother Sun Sister and Think Tank; and mentions Alan Freed’s Beat Radio.
November 15, 1996 - MPR’s Dan Olson profiles Fredrik Melius Christiansen, a Norwegian-born violinist and choral conductor in the Lutheran choral tradition. Christiansen founded the choir at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Olson interviews St. Olaf choral conductor Anton Armstrong about Christiansen.
November 19, 1996 - Jim Walsh, music critic for the St. Paul Pioneer Press, provides commentary on release of Prince three-disc album Emancipation. The three hours of music contains all new material created over the previous year. It is the first record for artist since he left Warner Brothers music label.