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By the early 1930s, Louis Armstrong had already revolutionized jazz. Through the next four decades, he would continue to reinvent himself. Along the way, he produced landmarks of the 20th century in American music and entertainment.

The concerts, songs and musical moments that stopped All Songs Considered host Bob Boilen in his tracks this week, including an a concert by St. Vincent so good he saw it twice.

NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Democratic New York Congressman Jamaal Bowman about the RAP Act, which would bar the use of music lyrics as evidence in court proceedings.

A rock 'n' roll pioneer, Orbison possessed a distinctive voice and melancholy style that had a tremendous influence on American rock and pop music. Orbison co-wrote and recorded such classics as "Only the Lonely," "Crying" and "Oh, Pretty Woman."

The classical pianist, who turns 200 today, changed the art of performance forever with his over-the-top concerts, creating a craze that historians have dubbed "Lisztomania."

This has been a strong year for African music, with two big trends emerging: the continuing integration of African music into the U.S. and European mainstream, as well as the ongoing unearthing of treasures from Afropop's "golden era," particularly the '70s.

The New York music marathon turns 10 this year and expands far beyond its modest origins, but it remains a place to discover new views of improvisation. Hear tunes from groups like the Jeff Ballard Trio, Tillery and Aruán Ortiz's Orbiting Quartet.

The Charlotte rapper's new album, Laughing so Hard, it Hurts, is more direct in thought and intention than his debut, more open and vulnerable, letting his observations guide his insights.

Each week, the guests and hosts on NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour share what's bringing them joy. This week: South Side, Ariana DeBose's BAFTA performance and Paramore's This Is Why.

"I want to pass on the joy of playing this music to others, just as Rev. Davis passed it on to me."