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 5/18/25
- Beck “Bottle Of Blues” Mutations
- Julien Baker & TORRES “Sugar in the Tank” Send a Prayer My Way
- Julien Baker & TORRES “Bottom of a Bottle” Send a Prayer My Way
- Julien Baker & TORRES “Tuesday” Send a Prayer My Way
- Suzanne Vega “Crack In The Wall” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Macy Gray “I Try” On How Life Is
- Brittany Howard “What Now” What Now
- Jade Jackson “Finish Line” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- The Beths “Metal” Metal (single)
- The Go-Betweens “Streets Of Your Town” 16 Lovers Lane
- Portugal. The Man “Feel It Still” Woodstock
- World Party “When The Rainbow Comes” Goodbye Jumbo
- Lorde “What Was That” (single)
- Portishead “Sour Times” Dummy
- LCD Soundsystem “Home” This Is Happening
- tune-yards “Heartbreak” Better Dreaming
- tune-yards “Stop That Man” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Lianne La Havas “Is Your Love Big Enough?” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Courtney Marie Andrews “Kindness of Strangers” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Bon Iver “Everything Is Peaceful Love” SABLE, fABLE
- Stevie Wonder “Pastime Paradise” Songs In The Key of Life
- Say She She “Forget Me Not” Silver
- Neon Indian “Mind Drips” Psychic Chasms
- Mon Rovia “Rust” Act 4: Atonement
- Neil Young “Don’t Let It Bring You Down” After The Gold Rush
- R.E.M. “Man On The Moon” Automatic For The People
