A “World Cafe specialty show” refers to a special episode of the NPR radio program “World Cafe” that focuses on a particular genre or theme of music, often featuring in-depth interviews and performances from artists within that specific style, sometimes presented as a mini-series or a one-off episode depending on the topic. Sunday 4 pm- 6pm.
Key points about World Cafe specialty shows:
· Focus on specific genres:
These shows might highlight artists from a particular genre like indie rock, Americana, blues, or world music, giving listeners a deeper dive into that musical space.
· Curated artist selection:
The show producers carefully choose artists that represent the chosen genre, often including both established and emerging acts.
· In-depth interviews:
Besides live performances, the specialty shows often feature extended interviews with artists, exploring their creative process and influences within the specific genre.
· Potential for recurring themes:
Some specialty shows might become recurring segments, like a monthly “New Music Spotlight” or a seasonal “Holiday Music” feature.
Example of a World Cafe specialty show:
- “Indie Rock Hit Parade”: A special episode focusing on popular indie rock bands with multiple live performances and interviews
Playlist for 9/14/25
- Gigi Perez “At The Beach, In Every Life” At The Beach, In Every Life
- JD McPherson “North Side Gal” Signs & Signifiers
- Lord Huron “Nothing I Need” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Lord Huron “Digging Up The Past” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Lord Huron “Used To Know” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Lord Huron “Dead Man’s Hand” WC Recording
- Lord Huron “Who Laughs Last” The Cosmic Selector Vol. 1
- Lord Huron “Bag of Bones” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Lord Huron “The World Ender” WC Recording
- Fleetwood Mac “Everywhere” Tango In The Night
- Haim “Forever” Days Are Gone
- David Gray “Sail Away” White Ladder
- Kathleen Edwards “Save Your Soul” Billionaire
- The Church “Under The Milky Way” Starfish
- Hermanos Gutierrez “Elegantly Wasted (feat. Leon Bridges)” (single)
- Kacey Musgraves “Superbloom (feat. Leon Bridges)” Deeper Well: Deeper Into The Well
- David Bowie “The Stars (Are Out Tonight)” The Next Day
- Caamp “Mistakes” Copper Changes Color
- Rosanne Cash “Sunken Lands” WC Recording
- John Martyn “May You Never” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Madeleine Peyroux “Careless Love” Recorded Live for World Cafe
- Laufey “Lover Girl” A Matter of Time
- Stevie Wonder “Don’t You Worry Bout A Thing” Innervisions
- Bakar “1st Time” (single)
- The Revivalists “Upright” WC Recording
- Alex G “Afterlife” Headlights
- R.E.M. “Losing My Religion” Out of Time
- Stephen Sanchez “Until I Found You” Angel Face
- Digable Planets “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space)