Harry Connick, Jr. Tuesday, November 17, 2009 Grammy-winning singer, pianist and actor reflects on people who have influenced him and discusses his work to help rebuild his native New Orleans and his new CD.
Amerie Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Three-time Grammy-nominated singer explains why she switched labels and comments on the growing disparity between radio play and what people are listening to.
Lang Lang Monday, November 9, 2009 Piano virtuoso explains the work of his foundation and comments on the human rights record of his native China.
The Swell Season Tuesday, November 3, 2009 Musical duo The Swell Season shares the story of how their name came to be and reflect on winning an Oscar.
Kris Kristofferson Monday, November 2, 2009 Singer-songwriter-actor and three-time Grammy winner talks about being musically challenged, his friendships with icons like Muhammad Ali and Johnny Cash and his new CD.
Marcus Roberts Friday, October 30, 2009 Jazz pianist says he's trying to reintroduce people to the genre and reveals a secret of working with his trio; he also performs a track from his new CD.
Tim McGraw Wednesday, October 28, 2009 Country music superstar explains the importance of lyrical content in country music and talks about whether he'll quit his day job for acting.
Robin D. G. Kelley Monday, October 26, 2009 Cultural historian shares stories from his new biography of Thelonious Monk.
Andy Williams Friday, October 23, 2009 Legendary entertainer shares stories from his new memoir and reflects on highlights of his career.
The RZA Thursday, October 22, 2009 Wu-Tang Clan founder explains the title of his new memoir, The Tao of Wu.
Joshua Bell Friday, October 16, 2009 Violin virtuoso responds to purist critics and discusses the collaborations involved in his new CD.
Sheila E. and Pete Escovedo Thursday, October 15, 2009 Father-daughter musicians discuss playing together as a family, music in schools and the Elevate Hope foundation.
George Benson Tuesday, October 6, 2009 Jazz guitarist-singer describes how the process of making music has changed over the span of his long and award-winning career.
BeBe and CeCe Winans Friday, October 2, 2009 Grammy Award-winning gospel duo discuss the challenge of appealing to religious, non-religious and a new generation of music lovers and describe their faith journey over the past 15 years; they also perform a special song.
Rodrigo y Gabriela Thursday, October 1, 2009 Music duo describes the challenge of getting non-Spanish speaking people to appreciate their music.
Herb Alpert; Lani Hall Tuesday, September 22, 2009 Grammy-winning husband-and-wife musicians each give their versions of how they met and fell in love and explain why it took so long for them to do a project together.
Dave Matthews Monday, September 14, 2009 Musician and frontman talks about DMB's latest release, the loss of the band's longtime sax player and the influence of his native South Africa on his music.
Terence Blanchard Friday, September 4, 2009 Multiple Grammy-winning jazz musician-composer explains his obsession with New Orleans and his feelings about the response to Hurricane Katrina, four years after the devastation of the city.
Ledisi Wednesday, September 2, 2009 Grammy-nominated singer reflects on the risks she's taken and becoming a top artist without getting major radio play.
Josh Charles Friday, August 28, 2009 Musician explains his love for the Crescent City and talks about the origin of his 'Healing Time' project.
Reba McEntire Tuesday, August 25, 2009 Grammy-winning country artist and Golden Globe-nominated actress reflects on her success.
Smokey Robinson Tuesday, August 18, 2009 Singer-songwriter explains how it feels to be relevant, writing and recording 50 years after Motown Records was founded.
Davis Guggenheim Friday, August 14, 2009 Oscar-winning filmmaker shares the backstory of his new documentary and explains why it focuses on music's rock genre.
Corneille Wednesday, August 12, 2009 Singer-songwriter recounts his firsthand experience with the Rwandan genocide and also performs a song from his U.S. debut CD.
Mark Johnson Tuesday, August 11, 2009 Grammy-winning music producer explains the backstory and the goal of his Playing for Change project.
Maxwell Wednesday, August 5, 2009 Neo-soul singer explains his 8-year absence and his new CD trilogy and talks about touring.
Femi Kuti Tuesday, August 4, 2009 Internationally acclaimed Nigerian musician explains the reasons he fights the same fight as his father and the struggle to create his own way.
Raphael Saadiq Friday, July 31, 2009 Neo-soul singer-songwriter performs a track from his Grammy-nominated CD.
Lamont Dozier Friday, July 31, 2009 Grammy-winning songwriter-producer reflects on the 50th anniversary of Motown and tells the story of how The Supremes were launched to stardom.
Ashford & Simpson Thursday, July 30, 2009 Legendary singing and songwriting duo tell the stories of how they met and the first time they pitched to Motown record producer Berry Gordy.
Lionel Richie Wednesday, July 29, 2009 Iconic singer-songwriter discusses the international Obama-mania and the role he played on Obama's compilation CD.
Berry Gordy Tuesday, July 28, 2009 Motown Records founder reflects on his first number one song and some of the label's superstars.
Berry Gordy Monday, July 27, 2009 Motown Records founder recounts his boxing days and borrowing from his family to start the label, 50 years ago.
Berry Gordy Tuesday, July 7, 2009 Tavis revisits his conversation about Michael Jackson with the Motown Records founder.
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band Tuesday, July 7, 2009 Tavis talks with the Tupelo, MS-based trio, which is the youngest blues band to sign with a major record label.
Dr. Cornel West Tuesday, June 30, 2009 Princeton University professor assess Michael Jackson's cultural and social legacy.
Dr. Michael Eric Dyson Tuesday, June 30, 2009 Georgetown University professor assess Michael Jackson's cultural and social legacy.
Berry Gordy Monday, June 29, 2009 Motown Records founder reflects on his relationship with Michael Jackson, before the child, who was like a son to him, became an international music superstar.
Mary Mary Thursday, June 25, 2009 Tina Campbell of Mary Mary reflects on the 10-year career of the Grammy-winning contemporary gospel duo.
Femi Kuti Wednesday, June 24, 2009 Internationally acclaimed Nigerian musician explains the reasons he fights the same fight as his father and the struggle to create his own way.
Jerry Leiber; Mike Stoller Tuesday, June 16, 2009 Pioneering songwriting and producing duo reflect on their introduction to music, how they became partners and on their vast catalogue.
Della Reese Friday, June 12, 2009 Actress-singer-minister talks about her historic guest-hosting for Johnny Carson and how she navigates her career.
Sharon Jones Wednesday, June 10, 2009 Soul singer reflects on the interruptions in her career and navigating her way through people saying she couldn't be successful.
Nanci Griffith Tuesday, June 9, 2009 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter talks about courting controversy in her songwriting and also performs.
Mandy Moore Monday, June 1, 2009 Singer-actress discusses the evolution of her music and the impact of her recent marriage on choices she makes in the future.
Common Wednesday, May 20, 2009 Hip-hop artist-turned-actor describes his new music and talks about his desire to build a long career in acting.
Steve Martin Tuesday, May 19, 2009 Multitalented Emmy- and Grammy- winner talks about how he came to love the banjo and demonstrates two styles of playing.
Earth, Wind & Fire Monday, May 18, 2009 Members of the legendary R&B group Earth, Wind & Fire reflect on their career and performing at the White House.
Maxwell Thursday, May 14, 2009 Neo-soul singer explains his 8-year absence and his new CD trilogy and talks about touring.
Steve Earle Wednesday, May 13, 2009 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter explains how he found his way to sobriety and why his new CD is a tribute to his late friend and mentor, Townes Van Zandt.
Ziggy Marley Monday, May 4, 2009 Multiple Grammy-winning singer-songwriter shares why he made an album aimed at children and talks about fulfilling his father's dream.
Prince Tuesday, April 28, 2009 In part 2 of his exclusive conversation with Tavis, Prince explains how his new project has been successful without radio airplay and describes his ideal radio station.
Bria Valente Tuesday, April 28, 2009 Singer shares how she responded to the challenge of creating something that's not being done today in music.
Prince Monday, April 27, 2009 In Part 1 of an exclusive conversation, music icon talks about his childhood epilepsy—something he's never before shared publicly.
Hugh Masekela Monday, April 20, 2009 Jazz icon discusses turning 70, remembering his roots and the elections in his native South Africa.
India.Arie Thursday, April 16, 2009 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter discusses lessons learned from her first Grammy experience and describes how her voice reflects her state of mind.
Labelle Tuesday, April 14, 2009 The reunited group performs one of their classic hits.
James Ingram Thursday, April 9, 2009 Multiple Grammy-winning singer-songwriter recounts how his new CD--his first gospel album--came to be.
Israel Houghton Friday, April 3, 2009 Grammy-winning contemporary gospel musician emphasizes that he doesn't want people to see worship as being over after church.
Carlos Santana Thursday, April 2, 2009 Music icon talks about being the first rock act to take up residency in Las Vegas.
Memories of Marvin Gaye Wednesday, April 1, 2009 Guests Otis Williams, Claudette Robinson and Jan Gaye reflect on the life and legacy of Motown legend Marvin Gaye.
Otis Williams, Claudette Robinson Wednesday, April 1, 2009 Members of the Motown family reflect on the life and legacy of Marvin Gaye, 25 years after his death.
Jan Gaye Wednesday, April 1, 2009 Marvin Gaye's former wife reflects on his life and legacy.
Emmanuel Jal Monday, March 30, 2009 Sudanese child soldier turned hip-hop star recounts his early memories and shares why he was ready to tell his story.
The-Dream Tuesday, March 24, 2009 Hitmaking singer-songwriter-producer talks about the difficulties he had growing up and adapting in school.
Tricia Rose Thursday, March 19, 2009 Brown University Africana studies professor explains why hip-hop is ostracized, yet rises to the level of being studied.
Bobby Womack Tuesday, March 17, 2009 Legendary singer-songwriter-guitarist expresses his feelings on being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Neko Case Monday, March 9, 2009 Alt-country singer-songwriter talks about her new CD.
Esperanza Spalding Tuesday, February 24, 2009 Jazz artist reminisces about her early music career and her teaching days at Boston's prestigious Berklee College of Music.
Joan Baez Friday, February 20, 2009 Iconic folk artist, who's celebrating 50 years in the business, shares how she got into music and humanitarian advocacy.
Raphael Saadiq Tuesday, February 17, 2009 Neo-soul singer-songwriter performs a track from his Grammy-nominated CD.
Lamont Dozier Tuesday, February 17, 2009 Grammy-winning songwriter-producer reflects on the 50th anniversary of Motown and tells the story of how The Supremes were launched to stardom.
Graham Nash Thursday, February 12, 2009 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter comments on the love and outrage theme in his music, the influence of spending his childhood in bombed-out Europe and why he's still hopeful.
Ashford & Simpson Friday, February 6, 2009 Legendary singing and songwriting duo tell the stories of how they met and the first time they pitched to Motown record producer Berry Gordy.
Q-Tip Thursday, February 5, 2009 Hip-hop artist-producer describes his passage through various record labels.
M.I.A. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Grammy- and Oscar-nominated hip-hop artist describes the conflict taking place in her native Sri Lanka.
Akon Thursday, January 22, 2009 Singer-songwriter-producer describes his African roots and explains how he came into the music business with a 10-year plan.
Brian Wilson Wednesday, January 21, 2009 Singer-songwriter reflects on the impact of the Beach Boys and talks about his latest release.
Lionel Richie Friday, January 16, 2009 Iconic singer-songwriter discusses the international Obama-mania and the role he played on Obama's compilation CD.
Voletta Wallace, Jamal Woolard Wednesday, January 14, 2009 Mother of slain rapper Notorious B.I.G. and actor who portrays him talk about the feature biopic, Notorious.
Berry Gordy Friday, January 9, 2009 Motown Records founder reflects on his first number one song and some of the label's superstars.
Berry Gordy Thursday, January 8, 2009 Motown Records founder recounts his boxing days and borrowing from his family to start the label, 50 years ago.
Al Jarreau Friday, December 19, 2008 Multiple Grammy-winning singer performs a track from his new holiday CD.
will.i.am Thursday, December 18, 2008 Grammy- and Emmy-winning musician-songwriter-producer discusses his social activism.
Seal Friday, December 5, 2008 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter tells what it was like growing up as a Nigerian in London.
Odetta Wednesday, December 3, 2008 Tavis pays tribute to America's folk music legend.
Quincy Jones Tuesday, December 2, 2008 Legendary musician-composer-producer reflects on learning his craft from music greats, recording the single that helped fight famine in Africa and writing his new memoir.
Tom Jones Monday, December 1, 2008 Grammy-winning singer reflects on his career and talks about his newest release.
Natalie Cole Friday, November 21, 2008 Grammy-winning singer talks about her health challenges and reveals for the first time that her sister is putting together an album.
Yusuf Thursday, November 20, 2008 Singer-songwriter talks about finding new life, using culture to support moral values and his new single.
Sarah McLachlan Friday, November 14, 2008 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter performs and discusses how her music connects her with listeners and with the universe.
Ben Ratliff Wednesday, November 12, 2008 Jazz critic for The New York Times explains what The Jazz Ear means.
Labelle Friday, October 31, 2008 Labelle members reflect on their separate career paths and talk about what brought about their long-awaited reunion.
Raphael Saadiq Tuesday, October 28, 2008 Singer-songwriter explains how being a musician and having how being a musician and having the chops must always come first; he also performs a track from his new CD.
Randee St. Nicholas Friday, October 24, 2008 Photographer discusses her collaboration with musician Prince on the 21 Nights project.
Tip "T.I." Harris Thursday, October 16, 2008 Rap artist says he has made the necessary adjustments in his life in order to expand and grow as a man and move forward.
Naturally 7 Tuesday, October 14, 2008 A cappella singing group tell the story of how the group got together.
James Taylor Wednesday, October 8, 2008 Legendary singer-songwriter describes the difficult process of cutting down his latest CD to 12 songs and explains why he doesn't like to listen to himself on the radio.
Tom Morello Wednesday, October 1, 2008 Musician-activist discusses the cultural significance of an Obama presidency.
Yo-Yo Ma Monday, September 29, 2008 Grammy-winning cellist discusses how joy can come to America if the cultural, economic and political engines are all working together.
Dionne Warwick Thursday, September 25, 2008 Music legend discusses how she went from the church to the charts in her career and talks about her new children's book, Say a Little Prayer.
Ne-Yo Monday, September 8, 2008 Grammy-winning artist explains what it means to be a gentleman in the R&B world today.
Margie Perez Monday, August 25, 2008 New Orleans-based singer and Katrina survivor explains how she ended up giving a primetime speech at the convention.
LL Cool J Wednesday, August 20, 2008 Rapper-actor describes how his business and acting ventures have compromised his music.
Joshua Bell Monday, August 18, 2008 Grammy-winning violin virtuoso says he draws inspiration from golf great Tiger Woods.
Nas Thursday, August 14, 2008 Hip-hop star explains his run-ins with Fox News and how he handled it on his Untitled CD.
Joe Cocker Wednesday, August 6, 2008 Legendary rock/blues singer shares how Ray Charles inspired his career.
Carole King Thursday, July 3, 2008 Legendary singer-songwriter performs "Home Again."
Ne-Yo Monday, June 23, 2008 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter explains what it means to be a gentleman in the R&B and hip-hop world today.
Amos Lee Thursday, June 19, 2008 Singer-songwriter-guitarist discusses how his latest album fits in with the current music scene.
Alanis Morissette Thursday, June 12, 2008 Seven-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter talks about putting together her latest CD and trusting the process of making music.
Jewel Friday, June 6, 2008 Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter describes her country-western roots in Alaska.
Earl Klugh Thursday, May 22, 2008 Grammy-winning jazz artist talks about teaching guitar as a young man in Detroit; he also performs a track from his new CD.
Josh Groban Wednesday, May 21, 2008 Grammy-nominated singer discovers what he and Tavis have in common.
Donna Summer Monday, May 19, 2008 Legendary singer Donna Summer discusses her early years as a performer in Germany.
Carly Simon Wednesday, May 14, 2008 Legendary singer-songwriter talks about her new CD.
KT Tunstall Monday, May 5, 2008 Singer-songwriter explains how being adopted has impacted her musicn.
Dave Stewart Monday, April 21, 2008 Musician and Eurythmics co-founder explains why his business card says that he is a change agent.
Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige Thursday, April 17, 2008 Hip-hop mogul and the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul" talk about evolving in their careers and their current U.S. Heart of the City concert tour.
Dr. Cornel West Friday, April 4, 2008 Princeton University professor discusses Dr. King's lasting legacy.
Carole King Friday, March 28, 2008 Prolific singer-songwriter discusses 50 years in the business, creating her own record label and her take on good music.
Michael McDonald Tuesday, March 18, 2008 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter talks about remaking classic songs.
Jamia Simone Nash Friday, February 22, 2008 Eleven-year-old singer-actress talks about her upcoming history-making performance at the Academy Awards ceremony.
James McBride Wednesday, February 20, 2008 Best-selling author and musician explains historical fiction and tells why he writes it.
David Crosby Tuesday, February 19, 2008 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer says folk singers have always been town criers, bringing attention to current issues.
Al Jarreau Thursday, February 14, 2008 inger-songwriter tells the story of how he discovered what has become one of his most popular songs.
Herbie Hancock Wednesday, February 13, 2008 Herbie Hancock share his feelings on the moment when he realized he had won album of the year at this year's Grammy Awards.
Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff Tuesday, February 12, 2008 Legendary architects of Philly soul discuss the "old school" art of making music.
Kenny G Friday, February 8, 2008 Musician explains how he comes up with a song and tells the story of his first Johnny Carson appearance.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd Wednesday, February 6, 2008 Guitarist says when he heard the blues, he knew the music was about the truth, and performs a track from his new CD, "Ten Days Out."
Shelby Lynne Tuesday, January 29, 2008 Grammy-winning singer-songwriter tells why her new CD is a tribute to Dusty Springfield.
Odetta Friday, January 25, 2008 Singer-songwriter reflects on her quiet support of Dr. Martin Luther King.
Catherine Owens Tuesday, January 22, 2008 Filmmaker describes her concept for one of Sundance's most anticipated films, U2 3D.
Carlos & Salvador Santana Friday, January 11, 2008 Father-and-son musicians reflect on music as a family way of life.
Lupe Fiasco Wednesday, January 9, 2008 Rapper says his espionage is sneaking difficult, social subject matter onto the radio.
Patti LaBelle Friday, December 21, 2007 R&B diva comments on today's singers, the meaning of living the good life, racism and music and her upcoming projects.
Wyclef Jean Wednesday, December 5, 2007 Grammy-winning musician talks about his new release, "Carnival II."
Mary J. Blige Thursday, November 29, 2007 Three-time Grammy-winning R&B superstar wants her message to be clear to her audience.
James Taylor Friday, November 16, 2007 Rock and Rock Hall of Famer reflects on getting his start in the business, the rough period of his addiction and says any genre of music can be soulful.
Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds Thursday, November 15, 2007 Prolific singer-songwriter-producer talks about the impact of his upbringing on his music, the source of his nickname and his new CD and tour.
Shaggy Wednesday, November 14, 2007 Grammy-winning reggae and dancehall superstar talks about his latest release,
Roger Daltrey Tuesday, November 13, 2007 The Who's lead singer talks about his musical influences.
Joni Mitchell Friday, November 9, 2007 Renowned singer-songwriter reflects on her career, her long layoff and the inspiration for her new CD.
Omarion and Marques Houston Wednesday, October 31, 2007 Singer-actors talk about their individual and joint ventures.
Serj Tankian Tuesday, October 30, 2007 Singer-songwriter talks about the new breed of activists.
Lyle Lovett Monday, October 29, 2007 Musician says being under the radar gives him creative freedom.
Dee Dee Bridgewater Tuesday, October 23, 2007 Singer-actress discusses her jazz roots and her experience in Mali, the inspiration for her new CD.
Angie Stone Monday, October 15, 2007 Singer-songwriter says the gift of musical talent has been compromised for cash.
Chaka Khan Tuesday, October 9, 2007 Legendary singer-songwriter comments on the difficulty in working with record labels.
Christian Scott Thursday, September 20, 2007 Jazz trumpeter comments on wanting to change the musical climate.
Dr. Cornel West Tuesday, September 18, 2007 Princeton University professor explains the backstory of his acclaimed spoken-word CD.
Talib Kweli Wednesday, August 22, 2007 Hip-hop artist explains the collaborations involved in making his new CD, 'Eardrum.'
Pras Michel Monday, August 20, 2007 Musician-actor-producer talks about his new documentary on being homeless in America.
Chuck D Wednesday, August 15, 2007 Public Enemy founder discusses the group's 20 years in the music business.
Professor Griff Wednesday, August 15, 2007 Public Enemy Minister of Information discusses the group's 20 years in the music business.
Eddie Levert Wednesday, June 27, 2007 R&B singer Eddie Levert reflects on the relationship with his late son, Gerald.
Tip "T.I." Harris Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Singer-actor T.I. thinks acting is another way of expression.
Musiq Soulchild Monday, June 25, 2007 Singer-songwriter Musiq Soulchild says experience isn't always the best teacher.
Wynton Marsalis Wednesday, June 20, 2007 Grammy-winning jazz musician talks about meeting future great musicians on the road.
Mandy Moore Monday, June 18, 2007 Singer-actress explains the title of her new CD.
Toby Keith Friday, June 15, 2007 Country music star talks about his dream of longevity.
Brian McKnight and sons Thursday, June 14, 2007 R&B singer-songwriter and his sons talk about the family business.
Etta James Monday, June 11, 2007 Legendary blues songstress talks about her longevity in the business.
Nancy Wilson Tuesday, June 5, 2007 Grammy winning song stylist recounts her journey to stardom and talks about staying true to herself.
Lou Adler Monday, June 4, 2007 Legendary music producer reflects on the 40th anniversary of the Monterey International Pop Festival.
Chick Corea, Bela Fleck Friday, May 25, 2007 Master musicians explain the teamwork behind their new album.
Lily Allen Wednesday, May 16, 2007 Singer-songwriter reflects on unexpected fame.
Ne-Yo Monday, May 7, 2007 Rising R&B star says he goes to the studio to have fun and also performs a track from his new CD.
Mavis Staples Thursday, April 26, 2007 Singing legend Mavis Staples recounts writing freedom songs after meeting Dr. Martin Luther King.
Tom Morello Tuesday, April 24, 2007 Musician-activist reflects on his days at Harvard, working for a U.S. senator and music as a way to inspire the fight for social change.
Nick Cannon Monday, April 9, 2007 Actor-musician talks about his newest projects.
Ice Cube Monday, March 26, 2007 Rapper-actor-producer muses on his rap persona vs. his "family-friendly" movie characters.
Joss Stone Monday, March 19, 2007 Singer-songwriter says her music is about making people feel.
Phil Ramone Tuesday, February 13, 2007 Music producer discusses his Grammy-winning project with Tony Bennett.
Sam Moore Tuesday, February 13, 2007 Grammy nominee and soul music legend explains root music.
Rickie Lee Jones Friday, February 2, 2007 Musician discusses the inspiration for her new CD and also performs.
Chris Brown Monday, January 8, 2007 R&B singer-songwriter-actor talks about his feature film debut in Stomp the Yard.
Natalie Cole Monday, December 4, 2006 Singer-actress reflects on her audience and her disappointment in today's music.
Tony Bennett Friday, September 29, 2006 Legendary entertainer discusses performing and touring at age 80 and the lack of individuality in today's artists.
Irma Thomas Friday, August 18, 2006 Panelists discuss the continued impact of Hurricane Katrina one year later.
Los Lonely Boys Thursday, July 27, 2006 Grammy-winning group performs a song from the new CD, "Sacred."
Michael Franti Wednesday, July 26, 2006 Musician-turned-filmmaker discusses his new documentary and CD.
Wynton Marsalis Thursday, September 8, 2005 New Orleans native and Pulitzer Prize-winner comments on whether the city’s culture is lost forever.
Amerie Wednesday, July 13, 2005 Singer reflects on her biracial heritage.
Tori Amos Tuesday, April 26, 2005 Singer-songwriter says motherhood has changed everything for her.
Erykah Badu Monday, April 25, 2005 Multitalented artist describes the values she received from each of her five mothers.