Stephen Thompson
Stories
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The K-pop group BTS is back with a new album and single
BTS recently returned from a nearly four-year hiatus with a new album and single. Both are now at the top of the Billboard charts.
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'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' remembers every Nintendo moment ever
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is the ultimate piece of Nintendo fan service. Mario (Chris Pratt), Luigi (Charlie Day), Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) are on an outer space adventure to save Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson). The film features other beloved Nintendo characters like Bowser (Jack Black) and Yoshi (Donald Glover) – and a few surprises. It’s a sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which made more than a billion dollars worldwide.Follow Pop Culture Happy Hour on Letterboxd at letterboxd.com/nprpopculture
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Sturgill Simpson pulls off an unusual chart feat
The roots music maverick did something rare in the streaming era: landed an album that's only available on CD, cassette and LP — without his name on the sleeve — in the top five of the albums chart.
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What movies are best to see on the Big Screen
NPR staff debate the best movies to see on the big screen.
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NPR critics revisit the ghosts of Oscars past
The Oscars are tonight, and not everyone will be happy with who wins and loses. But what if we had a chance to pick the Oscars? This week, we're looking into Oscars past and relitigating some wins.
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The 2026 Oscars' best original song nominees, cruelly ranked
There are two clear frontrunners in this year's best original song race, either of which would be a worthy Oscar winner. Diane Warren is also nominated, for the 17th time.
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Young country and pop stars rule the charts this week
A pair of country singers made history on the Billboard charts this week. It's also a big week for young pop stars, with an Olympic boost.
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The pop charts this week are influenced by the Grammys
The Grammy Awards show is influencing people's listening habits this week.
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Metal band Megadeth and Harry Styles each hit No. 1 this week on the Billboard Charts
NPR Music's Stephen Thompson reports on new music shaping the charts.
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What to watch for at the 2026 Grammy Awards
From Lady Gaga to Kendrick Lamar, we hear about the nominees for this year's Grammy awards.
