Isolation and the disappearance of live music changed the All Songs Considered host's listening habits drastically in 2020. These albums offered not just calm, but richness and depth to explore.

The All Songs Considered host shares his highlights from a hard year.

NPR Music critics and contributors take us from Bad Bunny's dizzying opus "Safaera" to Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion's gloriously raunchy "WAP."

It wasn't a great year. But, as it often does, music made it better – or at least helped us get through the long days. So, before we put 2020 behind us, tell us your favorite albums of the year.

Friday at 2 p.m. ET, NPR Music will host an online listening party for the 20th anniversary of OutKast's landmark album. Join the chat room, ask our expert panel questions and shout your love.

Smith entered the 2020 Tiny Desk Contest with his band Britton & The Sting. He says "Blackstronauts" is about finding joy: "I want us all to put on our freedom suits and fly together," he says.

This year's Tiny Desk Contest attracted plenty of talent, including standout entrant Mama Haze, aka California songwriter Meaghan Maples. Her song "On Your Side" was written during a time of healing.

Friday at 3 p.m. ET, NPR Music will host an online listening party for Sylvan Esso's new album, featuring a conversation with members Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn.

Every year, the Tiny Desk Contest attracts thousands of unsigned musicians — like powerhouse singer Danielle Ponder. Her entry, "Poor Man's Pain," was inspired by her work as a public defender.

Every year, the Tiny Desk Contest attracts thousands of unsigned musicians. Lauren Eylise impressed the judges with "Peaks and Valleys," her song about toughing it out through hard times.