The NPR 100
Throughout the year 2000, NPR presented the stories behind 100 of the most important American musical works of the 20th century, across all styles and genres.
Commentator Evelyn C. White describes the life-affirming effect that Aretha Franklin's powerful anthem, "Respect," had on her and other young black women growing up in the turbulent 1960s. Though the song was written by Otis Redding, it came to help define Franklin's career.
Recent The NPR 100
October 23, 2000 This work was Coltrane's spiritual declaration that his faith and musical devotion was intertwined.
April 3, 2000 Muddy Waters' chart-topping 1954 classic stands today as a keystone of rock 'n' roll.
April 1, 2000 Earl Scruggs's song may have been the first to introduce audiences to bluegrass music.
May 1, 2000 This enduring hit showcases Domino's individual talents, and the early power of New Orleans music.
July 3, 2000 Folklorist Nick Spitzer tells the story of Woody Guthrie's leftist national anthem.
April 16, 2000 Loretta Lynn's classic 1970 song tells the autobiographical story of her life in Butcher Hollow, Ky.
June 4, 2000 Al Green showed a different side of soul on his 1971 hit. Hear the story of the legendary song.
May 15, 2000 Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" announced the dominance of grunge over the music of the time.
February 13, 2000 At age 25, George Gershwin took only three weeks to compose his most identifiable masterpiece.
October 9, 2000 Bruce Springsteen's album Born to Run came out in 1975 to critical and popular acclaim.
