It started out as one, as KCMU in 1972, but it grew and grew and is now licensed by the university but is independent. It was the first station to stream online 24/7 and is a real Seattle icon. kexp dot org if you want to listen. Yesterday was their "music heals: mental health" day, and they read messages and played requests all day. Today they start a pledge drive - tonight, I think, running for 1 week. I think their DJ Riz Rollins is the most freeform and in the tradition of early 70s FM radio - but all the DJs are unique and show their humanity.
As a person who has been in radio all my life, who’s been told time and time again your voice is so authentically you and so extraordinary, this piece really really hit home. Beautiful essay on what it’s like to connect to millions through your authentic voice.
Loved Alison Steele! Great post, Melanie!
Thank you, Jolene. Wasn't she amazing?
Radio station KEXP has unscripted DJs who are responsive to listeners, and fans do feel a personal connection to them and the station. It's great!
Love hearing there are DJs still doing free-form. Is KEXP a college station?
It started out as one, as KCMU in 1972, but it grew and grew and is now licensed by the university but is independent. It was the first station to stream online 24/7 and is a real Seattle icon. kexp dot org if you want to listen. Yesterday was their "music heals: mental health" day, and they read messages and played requests all day. Today they start a pledge drive - tonight, I think, running for 1 week. I think their DJ Riz Rollins is the most freeform and in the tradition of early 70s FM radio - but all the DJs are unique and show their humanity.
So interesting. Thanks for sharing this!
As a person who has been in radio all my life, who’s been told time and time again your voice is so authentically you and so extraordinary, this piece really really hit home. Beautiful essay on what it’s like to connect to millions through your authentic voice.
Thank you. There’s something personal about just the voice. It’s a really interesting space.