In the last decade of his life, John Lennon spent most of his time in New York City. Much of his iconic solo work, including Woman, Mind Games and I'm Losing You, was written at his home on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Filmmaker Michael Epstein joins us to discuss his new documentary, LENNONNYC, and tell us about New York City's impact on Lennon - and Lennon's on the city.

Vijay Iyer’s latest album, “Solo,” finds the acclaimed jazz pianist going it alone on five originals, as well as songs by Thelonious Monk, Michael Jackson and others. But today, Iyer joins us with pianist and electric keyboardist Craig Taborn to double the fun with two in-studio performances.  

Superstar Rajinikanth is the biggest movie star you've never heard of. He's been producing, directing and starring in his own action films since the 1980s and is the second highest paid actor in Asia. Plus, his films are obligated - by contract - to bill him as "SUPERSTAR Rajinikanth!" His newest release, Enthiran (The Robot) recently opened worldwide. Grady Hendrix, writer and co-founder of the New York Asian Film Festival, joins us to explain the man, the star - Rajinikanth.

John Lennon's foibles made him a real New Yorker

John Lennon's foibles made him a real New Yorker

Israeli pianist Anat Fort brings her thoughtful, minimalist, jazz to Birdland tonight. Download her "Paul Motian (1)" here.

Gregorio Uribe's 16-piece, Afro-Colombian big band plays Zinc Bar tonight. Download his "Caribe Contigo" here.

New York City is pulsing with high-octane brass bands these days, and The Underground Horns is one of them. The group releases its debut CD tonight at Nublu. Download "Big Beat" here.