Today we explore the fun and fluorescent 1980s and new wave music. Music by The Cure, Squeeze, Elvis Costello, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, and Big Audio Dynamite.

Today we listen to the music of the mid-century cocktail party era of the late 1950s/early 1960s - the sophisticated calm before the storm. Music by Stan Getz, the Sonny Clark Trio, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Today on Play Something Sweet we look at the war years during World War 2 and the music of the 1940s. Music by Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, and The Andrews Sisters.

Today on Play Something Sweet we look at the roots of Cajun music and zydeco. Music by Mitch Landry, Buckwheat Zydeco, Roy Carrier, and Clifton Chenier.

This week we explore a disillusioned Generation X and their expression through music - grunge and riot grrrl. Music by Nirvana, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, Bikini Kill, and Sleater-Kinney.

Today we trace the fascinating history of ska music in Jamaica and its arrival in post-war England leading to second-wave ska. Music by Prince Buster, The English Beat, The Specials, and The Selecter.

This week we explore how rap music grew out of the despair of living in forgotten places like the South Bronx in the 1970s. Through music, art, and dance, inner-city kids let the world know they were there. Music by The Sugarhill Gang, Grandmaster Flash, Kurtis Blow, and Run-D.M.C.

Today we trace the history of California Country music from the Dustbowl migration and Bakersfield to the music scene in Los Angeles. Music by Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Buffalo Springfield, Linda Ronstadt, and the Eagles.

This week we explore gritty New York City in the 1970s and the harsh environment that led to punk rock. Music by The Velvet Underground, New York Dolls, Patti Smith, Richard Hell, Ramones, Sex Pistols, and The Clash.

Today on Play Something Sweet we explore the influences and conditions in post-war England in the 1950s that led to the British Invasion of the 1960s. Music by The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, and John Mayall.