Music-focused nonprofit arts organization KEXP will launch three new programs in early 2019. The new shows reflect a deep dedication to the organization’s mission to enrich lives by championing music and discovery, and include new public affairs programming centered on the voices, perspectives, and experiences of members of diverse communities. This programming will host more conversations about the value and impact of music and art in our lives, explore how music and culture intersect with current affairs, politics and social justice, empower young people in public media and music curation, and help listeners engage with new musical genres.
The three new shows include:
- A youth-centered program (Title TBA) created by young community members participating in the newly-launched KEXP Youth DJs program.
- A public affairs program (Title TBA) that uses interviews, artistry, commentary, insight, and conversation to illustrate why music and art matter.
- A specialty show, Pacific Notions, which is a weekly three-hour showcase of the best in neo-classical and ambient music with explorations into downtempo, new age, post-rock, and other atmospheric styles.
“We hear from listeners each and every day about the power that music has in their lives – power to connect, inspire, and heal,” said KEXP Chief Content Officer and afternoon show host Kevin Cole. “The new shows we’re announcing today allow us to examine that power in more profound ways than ever before. We will explore more musical genres, create space for young people to express their musical and cultural perspectives while gaining valuable media and leadership skills, and foster more understanding about the impact music and creativity have in our society.”
The new shows will air in the 6-9 a.m. timeslot on Saturday and Sunday on 90.3 FM in Seattle.
With all due respect, I am appalled that KEXP will no longer be airing Mind Over Matters on Saturday and Sunday mornings. These shows are essential to inform citizens, young and old in and around Seattle, the Pacific Northwest and beyond of events affecting our lives. And these shows create awareness and inspire activism, thought, and even, I surmise, musicians to create material gleaned from these programs. Informed citizenry make for a healthier community, especially with the explosive influx of people moving into Seattle. Eat The State shines a bright light into the workings and machinations of Seattle and King County. This, of course, might upset powers that be and perhaps wealthy contibutors. This seems like a cop-out, especially having followed KEXP from rhe days of KCMU. The three hour show, Pacific Notions, seems like a very weak replacement given the extraordinary time dedicated to music in your 24 hour cycle.
Finally, our ‘republic’ is drifting into perilous waters and Mind Over Matters helps to inform, enlighten and inspire citizens (including young musicians) to wake up, pay attention and perhaps act.
Sincerely,
Russell Johnson