Quiana Parler of the band Ranky Tanky is welcomed back to Musician's Spotlight for her second interview and feature. The group was a guest on Spotlight several years ago, and host John Floridis checks in with Quiana after the release of the most recent project “This Village”, a continuation of their exploration and celebration of the Gullah culture of their hometown area of Charleston, South Carolina.

Parton, who died at 80 on Tuesday, had charm, depth, beauty, wit and radiant goodness. She was also a songwriter whose work told the story not just of country music but of the country itself.

Join John Floridis and Special Guest Molly Tuttle - Singer, Songwriter, and Virtuoso Guitarist, Live in Studio B this Friday!

This program features a tribute to composer and pianist Phillip Aaberg who passed away May 23rd of 2026. This episode features archival recordings of two Spotlight programs from past seasons. One is from a 2002 show produced by former program co-host Brian Kopper, and the second features host John Floridis' visit with Phil from 2013.

Multi-instrumentalists, songwriters and singers Lee Henke and Ryan Acker of the band The Last Revel join host John Floridis on this episode of Musician's Spotlight.

The winner of the 2026 Tiny Desk Contest is revealed by NPR Music's Bobby Carter. It's the 12th time that an unsigned musical artist has won the nationwide challenge.

Bassist, singer and composer Devon Gates – recently named one of 2024’s Up and Comers of the Year – joins host John Floridis for conversation on this episode of Musician's Spotlight.

Host John Floridis is joined by cellist, vocalist and founding member of the group Biriba Union, a cross-cultural group combining South American, jazz, hip-hop, classical and folk traditions.

Listen: The String Orchestra Of The Rockies, Live live from the University of Montana School Of Music

Violinist, arranger and educator Stephanie Chase joins host John Floridis on Musician's Spotlight this week. Stephanie has appeared with over 170 orchestras, including the New York and Hong Kong Philharmonics and the Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta and London Symphony Orchestras.