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American musical icon Ray Charles died of complications from liver disease Thursday at his Beverly Hills home. In a career that lasted more than half a century, Charles defied categorization and brought his soulful stylings to jazz, pop, country and R&B.

Attorney Mathew Rosengart, who began representing the pop singer a week and a half ago, wants someone new to look after Spears' estate. For the past 13 years, it's been controlled by her father.

Jubilant Sykes is an artist who feels at home with all kinds of music -- from Bach to Billboard to Broadway standards. With his latest CD, "Wait For Me," the baritone singer adds folk, pop and gospel to his repertory. All Things Considered host Michele Norris talks with the classically trained musician about his passion, his faith and his fierce work ethic.

Most pop and country music stars seem more interested in image than issues. Then there's Steve Earle, who speaks with NPR's Steve Inskeep about his politically charged music and the new documentary Just An American Boy: A Film About Steve Earle.

Shara Worden's music sounds both micro-orchestrated and entirely, ecstatically spontaneous. Every song here is a mission statement and a directive; each is propulsive and demanding of full attention.

In a career spanning more than 40 years, the singer-songwriter has delved into genres such as pop, rock, folk, jazz and reggae. Her latest album leans toward alt-rock and features Armatrading playing all the instruments on the album, aside from percussion. Hear her play songs from This Charming Life live in NPR's Studio 4A.

Eminem once used the same jokey, poppy formula on each album's debut single, but "Not Afraid" breaks that mold, eschewing catty pop-culture references for sincere introspection. Over a solemn keyboard riff, he speaks of wanting to be a better father to his daughter, and ponders his recent struggles with drug addiction.

Akinmusire would rather fit into a cohesive band and spread the solos around than put himself way out front.

Wedding DJ Mary Nisi tries out Songza, an app that offers users ready-made playlists for almost any mood or situation. Nisi has one word of warning: Once you log in, she says, you may never put your phone down again.

This weekend in the greater Berkshire region you can hear a string quartet, a jazz quintet, a world-pop ensemble, a retro-funk outfit, art songs, and a…