5 Artists we need on Tiny Desk

Beginning in 2008, NPR’s Tiny Desk–a series featuring up-and-coming, as well as well-established artists performing “tiny” concerts at a studio desk has become incredibly popular. These “tiny” concerts have gone on to feature some larger-than-life artists such as Burna Boy, Thundercat, Dua Lipa, Mac Miller, and BTS to name a few.

The artists are recorded while performing live at the desk of Bob Boilen, the creator and founder of Tiny Desk. There is a list that seems endless of artists who have graced the Tiny Desk stage, however, we have compiled a list of artists we have yet to see on NPR’s Tiny Desk, artists we all need on NPR’s Tiny Desk, and some may surprise you.

Andrè 3000, member of hip hop duo Outkast has an undeniably unique sound we would kill to hear in tiny desk format. Andrè is known for his work with numerous artists, including Drake, Gwen Stefani, and Frank Ocean, and is a perfect candidate for NPR’s Tiny Desk. While Andrè focuses on featuring in songs, it’s undeniable he has several verses and Outkast songs that could create the perfect setlist in an intimate Tiny Desk concert. 

Lana Del Rey is among the most influential women in indie music today. With two top ten hits on the Billboard Hot 100, it’s incredible with influence like hers that she has not crossed paths with the Tiny Desk stage. We all want a stripped-down Summertime Sadness and Say Yes To Heaven live. Is that too much to ask? 

Grammy-award-winning Kali Uchis is an artist who was made for stripped-down instrumentals where their vocals can shine. Uchis can do it all, known for her upbeat songs such as “telepatía” and slowed-down ballads such as “Moonlight”, we would all love to see the range with her take on a Tiny Desk show. 

Lorde has been widely known for the deep cuts in her songs. Her fondness of introspective lyrics with more overstated production would make her Tiny Desk one to watch. A stripped-down version of all the songs that make us dance and cry at the same time is all we could really ask for. 

We know– Frank Ocean is a bit of an elusive figure in the music scene. Just this year Ocean was subject to controversial reviews following his first public appearance in six years at this year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Given the pace of Ocean’s iconic album Blond, it would be a show to watch to see a take on these songs in a far more personal setting.