Survival of the Fittest

Soundcheck | May 3, 2010
Why do some songs survive the test of time while others go the way of the eight-track? We look at "musical Darwinism" with Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, and Warren Zanes of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Also: Football player-turned-operatic bass Morris Robinson talks about his remarkable career path. The 330-pound singer got his start playing offensive guard at The Citadel. Now he's singing in "The Magic Flute" at the Met. He'll perform live and share his predictions for tonight's national championship game, in which top-ranked Ohio State faces off against Florida.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

One Refugee’s Journey Through ICE Detention

In 2025, ICE began detaining people at immigration hearings, an unprecedented step. The staff writer Jonathan Blitzer shares the story of one detainee whose life was turned upside down.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Black and Latino Leaders React to DSA Wins

Jeffery Mays talks about how Black and Latino political leaders feel as members of DSA have gained power in NYC.
The Brian Lehrer Show |

Jewish elected leaders criticize Mamdani’s rhetoric after Upper West Side stabbings

Authorities charged the suspect, Raul Morales, with hate crimes on Friday.
Gothamist |

Cat Cohen's New Comedy Musical 'Broad Strokes'

All Of It with Alison Stewart |
YOU ARE ONLINE