From Mozart to Drake: The music that moves Misty Copeland

After 25 years with American Ballet Theatre, Misty Copeland is taking her final bow this October. Just ahead of her last performance, the groundbreaking ballerina – who made history as ABT’s first Black female principal dancer – joins Sophie to reflect on her journey.

From a shy girl nicknamed “Mouse” who grew up without a home for much of her childhood in Southern California, to a stunning career on the stages of Lincoln Center and beyond, Misty’s is a story of defying the odds.

In this episode, Misty opens up about her tumultuous upbringing, dancing through six stress fractures, finding love at a nightclub, and the music that has carried her through it all. Here are her songs.

1. Aretha Franklin - Ain't No Way
2. Mariah Carey - Looking In
3. N.E.R.D. - Run To The Sun
4. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Piano Concerto No 21 in C Major K 467 II Andante
5. J. Cole - Be Free
6. Sade - Kiss Of Life
7. Drake - Nice For What