If the purpose of political songs are to rouse people into action, then today's breed of political musicians aren't doing a very good job, says writer Chris Dahlen in a recent column for Pitchfork Media. Dahlen joins us today to talk about how political music is changing and what's needed in the future. Also joining us is singer-songwriter and activist Steve Earle, whose last two albums were heavily political in nature.

At a press conference for his new Crosby Stills Nash & Young documentary, Neil Young told reporters that “the time when music could change the world is past.” It’s time for science and spirituality so save the planet, the 62-year-old songwriter added. Perhaps Young is on to something. Or perhaps music plays an indirect role in social or political change. Tim Riley, music commentator for NPR's "Here and Now" and author of "Fever: How Rock 'n' Roll Transformed Gender in America" joins us.

Also: Longtime classic rock disc jockey Pete Fornatale shares his thoughts, and we take your comments and calls.

Tell us: Is Neil Young right? Do you think music can still change the world? Did it ever?

Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Aaron Jay Kernis has just released an album of romantic art songs; Jane Monheit is one of today’s most recognizable jazz vocalists and an interpreter of many lyrics about romance. Together they tell us what makes for a compelling love song.

Weigh in: Is Romance in music Dead? What romantic songs do you like to get in the mood?

This weekend marks the 25th anniversary of Marvin Gaye's stirring-yet-funky performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the 1983 NBA All-Star Game. Journalist and radio host Harry Allen joins us for a look back at a historic moment for the national anthem and for a gifted, but troubled, singer. And, Bruce Hornsby saw Gaye's performance. The Grammy-winning artist tells us what it was like and shares his own experiences performing the anthem.

Weigh in: Do you have a favorite performance of the anthem? A least favorite?

A trial scheme of playing classical music in London's Underground stations proved so successful that it has been extended to 40 stations on the transit network. What's more surprising are the music playlists, full of lesser-known works by Rimsky-Korsakov, Berlioz and others. Neil Fisher, classical music editor of the London Times, joins us with his review.

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