Well-Known Names, Well-Crafted Songs, Well-Suited for April

Elder statesmen, up-and-comers, megastars — all are well represented in this April’s new music picks.

You’ll recognize most of the names in this month’s group of featured artists. One is paid tribute to, one is on his way to super-stardom, and three are at the top of their game. Bring some new music into your April — look for these picks and more at many of our stores!

Read on to find out how to win a copy of the Jackson Browne Tribute CD. UPDATE: Congrats to our winners: Ann, Peter and Chase!

Jackson Browne Tribute

Looking Into YouJackson Browne stands out as one of music’s most iconic singer-songwriters, and in this 2-disc set you can hear the respect and admiration of over 23 artists as they pay musical homage. Even though each song has a different producer, a cohesive “soundscape” emerges, focused on the melodies and phrases that made these songs great. From Don Henley to Indigo Girls, from Ben Harper to Bruce Springsteen, the bands here are excellent and well-chosen.

 

PHARRELL

G I R L7-time Grammy winner Pharrell’s sophomore release is a self-described “celebration of women” while, he says, also hoping to cast a light on persistent gender inequality. Joyous, driving, danceable, it features collaborations with Justin Timberlake and Alicia Keys — it also features Academy Award-nominated #1 single “Happy” from Despicable Me.

 

SHAKIRA

ShakiraColombian megastar, mother, and judge on The Voice, Shakira returns with a powerful new album. Her voice is front and center and has never sounded better or more energetic. “Can’t Forget To Remember You,” her collaboration with Rihanna, stands in good company with 11 other passionate, diverse and well-crafted songs.

 

MARTINA MCBRIDE

EverlastingFour-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, Martina McBride hits home again with this strong release. Produced by Don Was (The Rolling Stones, Bonnie Raitt), Everlasting is a collection of soulful covers, ranging from Aretha Franklin’s “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” to Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds.” Martina’s versatility and emotional power is on full display here.

 

THE MUPPETS MOST WANTED

SoundtrackOf course Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy are the headliners here, but did you expect a host of celebrities including Lady Gaga, Tina Fey, Celine Dion, Ricky Gervais, Ty Burrell and Tony Bennett? Perfect for kids — great for the car!

 

What artists or songs are in heavy rotation for you these days? New favorites, old rediscoveries? Tell us in the comments below and you could win one of four prizes. We're giving away four copies of the Jackson Browne Tribute CD and one of those winners will also receive a framed poster of the album cover. Comment by April 30th for a chance to win. We’ll choose four comments at random to receive a prize.

The fine print: No purchase necessary. Promotion ends April 30, 2014, 12:59 PM CDT. Must be a legal resident of the US or Canada (except in Quebec, where it is void) age 18 or older to participate. Taxes on prize, if applicable, are the responsibility of the winner. Employees of Whole Foods Market, Inc., are not eligible. Void where prohibited.

 

Explore More