The Art of the Story

At The Tell, Michael Leviton curates a monthly night of unscripted storytelling where the audience never knows what’s coming. The result is an intimate, unpredictable experience that speaks to the enduring power of stories—and the people who tell them.

Every year on April 1st, the world gives itself permission — briefly — to lie. We call it April Fools’ Day. This is something we all know. But do you know how the tradition started? You might be surprised.At its best, April Fools’ Day isn’t really about lying. It reminds us — just once a year — that the things we take for granted might not be as solid as they seem. That authority can be imitated. That certainty can be fragile.And that every now and then, it’s worth questioning what we think we know… and laughing at the things we’re willing to believe.

Fresh off his triumphant John-Coltrane-centennial performance of A Love Supreme at the 2026 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, (which he also produces) saxophonist Paul Carr is absolutely one of the busiest musicians in the DMV. On top of performing at his festival and assorted curating work, Paul Carr is a leading jazz educator. In August 2025 he was appointed assistant professor of saxophone, and director of the renowned Howard University Jazz Ensemble, at historic Howard University, his alma mater.WBGO contributor Willard Jenkins recently spoke to Paul about his “full circle moment” of returning to teach at the very place where he once studied, and the circuitous yet rewarding path he took to arrive where he is today.

China Moses spoke recently with WBGO’s Kyla Marshell and explained the idea behind the name of her album - a title that seems to reflect both the music and her lived experience.

For Producer Larry Klein, generosity is its own reward

French-Chilean rapper Ana Tijoux traces a path through hip hop that began in Paris, took shape in Santiago, and ultimately connected her back to the global culture that inspired her. Her story reflects how American music travels — and how it evolves when artists make it their own.

Today we’re remembering Paul Motian, on what would have been his 95th birthday and revisiting his interview with Ben Sidran from the 1980s.

Guitarist and composer Rafiq Bhatia brings music from his immersive new album Environments to 92nd Street Y on March 27. In conversation with Leo Sidran, he explains how technology, improvisation, and collaboration combine to create musical landscapes that never unfold the same way twice.

On this episode of The Art of the Story, we highlight a big year for music power couple Iqua and Adegoke Steve Colson

Lil' Jimmy Reed: 70 years of blues on the road