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Podcasts The Frame
Esperanza Spalding has conjured up '12 Little Spells'
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Episode 19544
Listen 25:44
Esperanza Spalding has conjured up '12 Little Spells'

The singer and bassist experiments with a variety of styles on her latest album, with each song corresponding to different body parts; the Fox Network has some decisions to make about the future of "Empire" and its co-star, Jussie Smollett.

Esperanza Spalding's latest album is titled "12 Little Spells."
Esperanza Spalding's latest album is titled "12 Little Spells."
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Getty Images
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On today's show:

All the Right Ingredients

(Starts at 7:45)

Esperanza Spalding is doing her best to redefine jazz. A bassist, singer and four-time Grammy-winning artist, her music blends jazz with elements of rock, hip-hop and soul. And her approach to songwriting incorporates elements of performance art — Spalding's sixth album, “Exposure,” was recorded in 77 hours and was live-streamed on Facebook. When she spoke with The Frame, she discussed her latest release, “12 Little Spells.” It’s a collection of songs composed using a form of alternative medicine called Reiki.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oatUy70Ceg

What now for 'Empire' and Jussie Smollett?

(Starts at :45)

Now that charges against the actor have been dropped, the Fox Network must decide whether to renew the series for a sixth season and, if so, whether to invite Smollett back to the show. After Smollett was charged with instigating a hoax about being the victim of a hate crime, he was dropped from the final two episodes of the current season, which air April 3 and 10.  Another complicating factor: "Empire" is produced by 20th Century Television, which is now owned by Disney and could decide to part ways with the series. Guest host Steven Cuevas talks with Variety reporter Will Thorne.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2rWerWLWak