Norah Jones Is Playing Along

GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, guitarist, and singular vocalist Brittany Howard joins Norah, fresh off the release of Alabama Shakes’ new album and following two acclaimed solo records of her own. They talk about how the band naturally found its way back together, the unexpected places inspiration can strike, and share a powerful set of songs along the way. Recorded 6/25/26.

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Jeff Tweedy is a musician, songwriter, author and frontman of the prolific band, Wilco. Norah joins Jeff in the studio to chat and play duo versions of 5 of her favorites songs of his, including ‘Jesus, Etc.,’ ‘Muzzle of Bees’ and ‘Sunken Treasure’.  They dive into how he’s made music a family pastime and writing the perfect set list. Norah & Jeff laugh about the time she got the words wrong to one of his most beloved songs in front of him, and they tackle the age-old question of ‘who’s career would you like to have?’ They revisit recent history and discuss how the pandemic impacted songwriting. In the end, the answer is simple: Love is the king! Recorded on 10/1/2021. Original airdate 9/26/22.

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Today we speak with the brilliant, world-renowned sitar player, Anoushka Shankar, who happens to be Norah’s sister! Tune in for stories of the teen years when they first connected, the unique history with their father, Ravi Shankar, through their current GRAMMY night pajama hangs. You’ll hear the harmonious pairing of sitar and piano as they duet on a couple of Anoushka’s songs, one of Norah’s classics, and you won’t want to miss Norah's impromptu introduction to a traditional Indian Raga! Recorded on 2/4/23. Original airdate 4/24/23. 

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Marc Rebillet is a wizard! You may know him as Loop Daddy or from his many viral videos improvising tracks at home in his bathrobe. And while that might not be Norah’s performance attire, she and Marc do have a lot in common sharing roots from Dallas to New York. This is by far the funkiest episode to date as Norah & Marc lay down original music on the spot while discussing childhood influences, Marc’s main inspiration Reggie Watts, and how he pieces together the music magic. Tune in to find out what he has planned next! Originally aired 11/8/22.

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Mavis Staples is pure love and light. She grew up as part of the Staples Singers, a family whose powerful messages of peace rang loud and clear through times of civil unrest. Now, she has solidified worldwide respect and adoration as a solo artist. In this episode, Mavis treats us to many stories, from growing up in a big musical family, to staying strong through trying times, and how she spreads love through her music. She and Norah pay homage to Pops Staples with a rendition of “Friendship”, take on a gospel classic, and even get into the Christmas spirit!​ Recorded on 1/27/2022. Original airdate 10/24/22.

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GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, bassist, and producer Meshell Ndegeocello has built a singular career and left a lasting influence on generations of artists. She joins Norah to talk about her James Baldwin project, following instinct, and the connection that comes from playing together in such close quarters. You’ll also hear captivating, bass-driven duets from this special session. Recorded 1/30/26.

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FINNEAS joins Norah to talk about the organic beginnings that helped shape his remarkable career, from his own solo music to his lifelong creative partnership with his sister Billie Eilish. They also get into the original score he composed for Season 2 of Netflix’s BEEF. Together, they take on his breakthrough song “Ocean Eyes” like you’ve never heard it before, along with his song “Die Alone” and a Simon & Garfunkel classic, “Kathy’s Song.” Recorded 6/9/26.

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GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter, actor, and human rights advocate Allison Russell joins Norah for a conversation about their shared musical inspirations. Allison reflects on her powerful experience making her Broadway debut as Persephone in the Tony-winning musical Hadestown, and dives into the music behind her third studio album, In the Hour of Chaos (which features Norah on “Really Real”). Tune in to hear powerful, exclusive duets from these two deeply connected artists. Recorded 3/5/25.

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GRAMMY-nominated harpist and composer Brandee Younger joins Norah to talk about finding her voice on an instrument with deep history. They talk about the artists who opened the door for her sound and her serendipitous musical path. Brandee and Norah take on songs that feel intimate, soulful, and deeply connected. Recorded 9/19/25.

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GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Amy Grant joins Norah to talk about her first album of original songs in 13 years, and the hardships and perspective that shaped this new chapter. They reflect on Amy’s groundbreaking career, from contemporary Christian music to now. You’ll hear songs new and old, including one that leaves Norah feeling nostalgic. Recorded 4/14/26.

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Singer, songwriter, and producer SASAMI joins Norah for a conversation about her distinctive musical path, from classical training on a “random instrument” to creating her own bold, fearless sound. They talk about the artists who inspired her, give a nod to one they both love, and take on striking duets together for the first time. Recorded 3/19/26.

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GRAMMY-winning legends Ron Carter and Bill Frisell join Norah for a special episode full of stories, deep listening, and remarkable music. With decades of recordings, collaborations, and influence between them, they reflect on a lifetime of playing and join Norah on cherished hymns reimagined, as well as an intimate jazz standard. Recorded 2/19/26.

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GRAMMY-winning artist Arooj Aftab joins Norah for a funny hang with stories of their unexpected run-ins over the years. They talk about how they’re feeling about music right now and the quirks of getting older as women. You’ll hear duets that range from a familiar pop ballad to a Norah song Arooj once dreamed about, along with a stunning song in Urdu. Recorded 2/25/26.

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GRAMMY-nominated pianist Lang Lang brings the show its first true classical piece. One of the world’s most celebrated musicians, he’s played everywhere from Carnegie Hall to Buckingham Palace, and has helped bring classical music to a whole new generation. Listen in for incredible new takes on a pop hit and a Norah favorite, plus a moment where the piano might just be played with a piece of fruit. Recorded 2/28/26.

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Singer-songwriter Rachael Yamagata joins Norah for a catch-up on music, life, and what’s next. Norah shares how she first discovered Rachael’s songs, and they perform duets, with Rachael taking Norah’s place at the piano for a tune and coming together on a sweet French love song. Recorded 11/17/25.

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GRAMMY-winning guitarist, songwriter, and founding member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Mike Campbell joins Norah with stories from his decades of making music. He talks about his first guitar and his new book, Heartbreaker, while Norah shares how his music soundtracked her life. Hear the legend himself on a couple of his classic songs. Recorded 10/14/25.

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Legendary bassist Pino Palladino and producer, guitarist, and songwriter Blake Mills join Norah for a deep musical session. They let us in on the instruments they've brought to the studio, challenge Norah with some of the music, and share a set of immersive performances together. Recorded 10/2/25.

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For the podcast’s first live episode, Norah is joined by St. Vincent, aka Annie Clark, a singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer, and Grammy winner, at the St. Cecilia Hotel in Austin during SXSW. Tune in as these two Texans talk about what keeps Annie moving forward, and share incredible duets live and in the moment. Recorded 3/14/26.

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Pianist, composer, and bandleader Jason Moran brings a deep well of musical curiosity to this episode. From their shared Texas roots to their time on the same label, he and Norah talk about the ways their careers have orbited each other over the years. There’s a lot of music throughout, including classics and songs from Jason’s catalog over the years. Recorded 4/4/25.

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GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Madison Cunningham joins Norah for a thoughtful hang and a set of striking duets on Madison’s songs. They talk about writing authentically and the artists who helped make songwriting make sense. Recorded 10/15/25.

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Harry Mack, a freestyle rapper known for his jaw-dropping improvisation, joins Norah for an episode where nearly everything is off the top of the dome. Today, he steps behind the drums, shows a different side of his musicianship, and talks about discovering his gift. Hear how he handles even the trickiest words Norah throws at him while she backs him up. Recorded 11/17/25.

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Tony and GRAMMY nominee Josh Groban chats with Norah about being a "late bloomer" in finding his voice, life on and off the stage, and their shared love of musical theater. The episode features candid renditions of familiar favorites reimagined and a timeless Broadway classic. Recorded 11/25/25.

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The War and Treaty, Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, join Norah to share fascinating stories and a powerful set of songs. They talk about finding their voice together and the experiences that have shaped their music. Recorded 4/9/25.

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Martha Wainwright stops by to talk with Norah about growing up in one of music’s storied families and carving out her own path as an artist. She reflects on the 20th anniversary of her debut album, and she and Norah explore songs old and new. Recorded 4/30/25.

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This episode features Lady Wray, the acclaimed soul singer whose powerful voice has earned widespread praise. She joins Norah to talk about the winding path that brought her to where she is today, their shared connection to producer Leon Michels, and they perform a few songs together—including a special cover of one of Norah’s. Recorded 10/1/25.

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Dave Grohl and Norah hang out in Foo Fighters' studio to play through some choice songs from his epic career. Dave talks about why he decided to take the hard road after Nirvana, getting lost in the White House, and asks Norah to take him to music school. Norah and Dave duet on a song that he hasn't played in 20 years, and he makes her day by lending his powerful drumming to one of her songs. This warm and wide-ranging episode gives an intimate peek into the mind of one of modern rock's most beloved legends. Recorded 4/26/23. Original airdate 10/23/23.

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Luz Elena Mendoza Ramos of Y La Bamba joins Norah for an honest talk about heritage, identity, and songwriting. They share how their roots shape their music and the curiosity behind their poignant lyrics. Along the way, they perform a couple of beautiful songs, moving between languages. Recorded 10/16/2023.

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Singer-songwriter Richard Julian joins Norah for a chat between longtime friends and bandmates in The Little Willies. They revisit their fateful first meeting and their early New York days, leading to the collaborations that have kept them making music together. It’s a trip down memory lane, filled with stories and music from the start. Recorded 1/21/2024.

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Lucius, the duo of Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig, join Norah for a warm conversation about the chemistry that shapes their music. They talk about how their onstage personas transport them into performance, the paths that brought them together, and how they craft their richly layered arrangements, weaving their voices together throughout the session. Recorded 6/23/25.

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GRAMMY-winning musician Joshua Homme joins Norah for a candid, offbeat conversation that covers everything from the creepiness of nursery rhymes to embracing the human nature of music. They also dive into the story behind Joshua’s project, Alive In The Catacombs, with a few sweet, Valentine’s-ready songs to set the mood. Recorded 10/15/25.

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GRAMMY-winning guitarist and composer Julian Lage joins Norah for a conversation that highlights his singular voice in music and a career defined by curiosity and craft. They talk about the universality of music and the nature of songs. Along the way, they geek out over guitars, with plenty of beautiful duets throughout. Recorded 12/11/24.

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A comedian, actor, and singer-songwriter, Bridget Everett blends raw humor with emotional honesty. She joins Norah for a candid conversation and performances that reflect both her cabaret roots and the vulnerability audiences know from Somebody Somewhere. Stay tuned for a spontaneous take on one of her biggest crowd-pleasers. Recorded 10/6/25.

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GRAMMY Award–winning artist Nathaniel Rateliff joins Norah to trace the road that shaped him and reflect on the time it takes to discover who you are as an artist. They explore what it means to sing from the heart and stay grounded. The episode features unforgettable performances and an open, honest conversation. Recorded 4/16/25.

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Aoife O’Donovan, the GRAMMY-winning singer songwriter whose work spans an acclaimed solo career along with projects like Crooked Still and I’m With Her, talks with Norah about when she found the space to become the songwriter she is today and what she loves about life on the road. The episode features striking duets from across Aoife’s work, along with a cover of a revered artist who inspires them both. Recorded 11/25/24.

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Lucinda Williams, the multi-GRAMMY-winning singer songwriter, joins Norah for a laid-back conversation about writing her book, the experiences behind some of her iconic songs, and how a voice evolves with time. The episode features intimate performances as Norah gets to play alongside one of her true idols. Recorded 10/26/2023.

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This special session features not one but two incredible and incomparable musicians - Questlove and Christian McBride. Both hail from Philadelphia and have become titans of the music scene, each in their own right. Go back in time as they relive shared hilarious high school memories, musically breakdown some of their greatest influences, and come together with Norah on inspired covers of D’Angelo, Pops Staples, Kris Kristofferson and more. Recorded 5/10/2023. Original airdate 9/11/2023.

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James Bay reflects on his process in the studio, his influences, and the art of crafting a setlist as he marks the 10-year anniversary of his breakout debut, Chaos and the Calm. The BRIT Award–winning, GRAMMY-nominated artist joins Norah on songs spanning the past decade of his work, and a familiar cover. Recorded on 5/22/25.

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John Legend joins Norah to talk about his life in music and the ways their journeys overlap. The multi-GRAMMY-winning EGOT artist shares where things really began for him, tells the story behind one of his most adored songs, and notes the 20th anniversary of his debut album Get Lifted. The episode features moving duets on songs you’ll recognize and ends with a touch of Christmas spirit. Recorded 10/14/25.

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Nate Smith, the GRAMMY-nominated drummer, composer, and producer, joins Norah in the studio for a conversation about how he got his start, navigating the art of self-promotion in the modern age, and his connection with some of his collaborators. The episode is full of music, including a special drum solo, and an impromptu jam. Recorded on 12/11/23.

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Sam Smith, the mutli-GRAMMY winning vocalist and songwriter, sits down with Norah for a conversation full of insight and heart. They reflect on how their artistry has shifted over the years, the joy of feeling truly at home in themselves, and the importance of holding onto the music that shaped them. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear standout duets, including a nod to an artist they both admire. Recorded on 11/5/25.

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Jesse Harris, the GRAMMY-winning singer songwriter whose work spans from his solo albums to his instrumental group Cosmo, joins Norah for a conversation grounded in their years of friendship and collaboration. They talk about his early background, seeing yourself as a songwriter, and stories from the good old days. The episode is packed with beautiful duets from across Jesse’s catalogue. Recorded on 6/5/24.

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Sarah McLachlan, the multi-GRAMMY and Juno Award–winning singer songwriter, sits down with Norah for an open and reflective conversation. They talk about Sarah's music schools, the origins of Lilith Fair, and what it takes to balance family life with a long career in music. The episode also features stunning performances, including one of Sarah’s songs that has long held a special place for Norah. Recorded on 9/18/25.

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Alessia Cara, the GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter known for her honest lyrics and soulful voice, joins Norah in the studio. She talks about how she first started writing songs, what life on the road has been like, and the secret dreams she still keeps close. Along the way, you’ll hear intimate duet performances of songs from Alessia’s latest album. Recorded on 4/3/25.

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María Zardoya, the voice of The Marías, joins Norah in the studio. They talk honestly about the joys and challenges of being in a band, the beauty in sad songs, and the connection that comes from inspiration. They duet on a couple of Maria’s captivating songs, and one of Norah’s that Maria has always loved. Recorded on 1/16/25.

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In this episode, Norah sits down with Jason Isbell, the GRAMMY winning singer songwriter known for his raw storytelling, heartfelt lyrics, and southern rock roots. From his days with Drive-By Truckers to his work with The 400 Unit and his acclaimed solo albums, Jason has become one of the most authentic voices in American music. Together, he and Norah dive into the timeless nature of a musician’s career, how to stay true, write deeply felt songs, and keep growing along the way. They perform a mix of his older and newer songs, along with a special cover that makes for a beautiful moment. Recorded on 4/22/25.

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To kick off this two-episode premiere, Margo Price joins Norah to talk about her journey, her inspirations, and to reflect on how expansive and diverse the country music world is today. The two share beautiful harmonies on Margo’s new music and perform a special cover together. Recorded on 6/10/25.

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As part of a special double episode premiere, Black Pumas—Eric Burton and Adrian Quesada—talk about how they first came together, the instant musical chemistry that defined their collaboration, and how they’ve evolved as a band. Norah joins in for some of their standout songs. Recorded on 1/20/24.

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Norah Jones is Playing Along returns with a brand new season Tuesday October 21st!

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Norah is joined by Laufey, the honey voiced Icelandic singer-songwriter and multi instrumentalist whose modern jazz sound has won her both a GRAMMY nomination and millions of fans on TikTok. They talk about building a career in music while maintaining autonomy, and play some of Laufey's elegant originals, along with a lovely version of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," featuring Norah on piano and Laufey on cello. Recorded 8/05/23.

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Norah sits down with the incredible singer, songwriter, and pianist, Rufus Wainwright, to talk about music and family, and to sing in sweet harmony. His gorgeous piano playing shines on songs from his early career, and Norah gets to play for him on an old standard from the Judy Garland "Live at Carnegie Hall" album. He tells some fabulous stories and they duet on a classic murder ballad from his new album, "Folkocracy.” Recorded 4/27/23.

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