Dancer, singer and band leader Max Pollak on the remarkable story of how he taught himself to dance in a place where no formal tap training existed. Early on, improvisation wasn’t just part of his style — it was the only way forward. That instinctive relationship with rhythm would become the foundation of his unique voice as an artist.

Self-described “badass and blind” singer, songwriter, guitaristRaul Midón on creativity, perception, independence, and the long road of a life in music. From growing up blind in New Mexico and discovering jazz through shortwave radio, to being discovered by producer Arif Mardin and signing to Blue Note Records, to building a self-sufficient creative life in his Maryland home studio — Raul’s story is full of vision.

Songwriter Stephin Merritt on impermanence, organizing principles, and the art of constraints: Raised by a spiritually seeking mother, Merritt moved 33 times by age 22 and describes himself as a “hippie brat” who “never liked children—even as a child.” This sense of solitude shaped his singular voice as the creative force behind the Magnetic Fields, who are touring this year to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their landmark triple album 69 Love Songs. 

In recent years, his productivity has slowed due to long COVID, a development he accepts with dark humor: “The gods have punished me for my dependence on inspiration by withdrawing it.” Here he reflects on creativity, aging, and songwriting, following a warm and revealing conversation with his longtime friend—and former personal assistant—bestselling author Emma Straub.

Nels Cline’s career defies the myth of a predictable artistic timeline. From decades in the avant-garde to nearly 20 years in Wilco, his journey is one of persistence & reinvention. Here he talks about music, identity & his new album Consentrik Quartet.