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 6/8/25
- Pet Shop Boys “It’s A Sin” Actually
- Japanese Breakfast “Honey Water” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Japanese Breakfast “Magic Mountain” For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women)
- Japanese Breakfast “Mega Circuit” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Mitski “First Love / Late Spring” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Japanese Breakfast “Men in Bars” For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women)
- Japanese Breakfast “Men in Bars” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Lee SangEun “Secret Garden” Experience of Mystery
- Japanese Breakfast “Picture Window” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Angel Olsen “Lights Out” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Cold War Kids “Hang Me Up To Dry” Robbers & Cowards
- Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds “There She Goes, My Beautiful World” Abattoir Blues/The Lyre of Orpheus
- The Smiths “The Headmaster Ritual” Meat Is Murder
- Lorde “What Was That” Virgin
- Fontaines D.C. “Starburster” Romance
- Hannah Cohen “Dusty” Earthstar Mountain
- Tame Impala “Let it Happen” Currents
- Tame Impala “Why Won’t You Make Up Your Mind?” Innerspeaker
- Bethany Cosentino “It’s Fine” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Citizen Cope “Bullet And A Target” Recorded Live for the World Cafe
- Pulp “Spike Island” More
- Arlo Parks “Blades” My Soft Machine
- Maggie Rogers “Don’t Forget Me” Don’t Forget Me
- Molly Tuttle “Million Miles” When You’re Ready
- Jade Bird “Dreams” Who Wants To Talk About Love
- Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals “Steal My Kisses” Burn To Shine”
- The Cure “Alone” Songs of A Lost World