Liv Cohen interviews Memphis musician Marcella Simian about her new album, To Bend to the Will of a Dream That's Being Fulfilled, and her upcoming shows at Off The Wall Arts and Crosstown Arts Theater.

Catch the recent interview about Ride the Cyclone, the University of Memphis Theatre & Dance program's bold musical about six high schoolers vying for a second chance at life.

Join award-winning storyteller Lisette Alvarez as they share how identity, audio drama, and a passion for uplifting voices shape their work at Stormfire Productions. Discover the transformative power of stories in this inspiring conversation.

Catch our conversation with interdisciplinary artist and Crosstown Arts Resident Jinseok Choi as he delves into the cultural connections behind his work, his journey from Seoul to Los Angeles, and his role in fostering vibrant art communities.

Marking one year since the loss of Jared McStay, this special episode of Switchin’ to Glide on WYXR honored his memory through music and stories. Hosted by Andrew Jason Gienapp and co-hosts Robby Grant and Graham Winchester, the show featured songs Jared wrote, tracks from bands he loved, and a live performance of So Gung Ho songs by Graham. It was a heartfelt celebration of Jared’s life and legacy, airing during a poignant month that would have marked his 20th wedding anniversary. A reminder to cherish your loved ones, this episode captured the deep impact Jared had on those who knew and loved him.

Jared "Jay B." Boyd welcomes poet and essayist Victoria Newton Ford as she explores the complexities of family, resilience, and the power of discovery in her writing. In this conversation, Victoria reflects on her journey, the lasting impact of her family's legacy, and her dedication to giving voice to the experiences of Black women and children.

UNAPOLOGETIC. founder and producer IMAKEMADBEATS brings "Box Of Records" host Zac Ives into his world of cosmic creation.

Filmmaker Julia Greenberg stops by to talk about her new documentary "Dory Previn: On My Way to Where". It screens Friday November 15th, 2024 as part of the Indie Memphis film festival. Dory Previn, once an Oscar-nominated Hollywood lyricist for stars like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, transformed into a cult figure in the 1970s Laurel Canyon music scene after a public breakdown and tabloid scandal. Known for her raw, witty, and unsettling songs about hidden personal experiences, she set a precedent in music long before today's confessional styles.

Eli Berry of Slowdown Dry Goods joins Liv on The Crooked Beat to guest DJ, talk about all things Slowdown Dry Goods, and hang out on WYXR for Election Day.

Sara is joined by special guests, General Labor and Jorty Spice of Machine Duplication Recordings take over and play music from their latest release and other dark melodies.

A triptych of night terrors, presented on THRUST; a send off to spooky season.

Devin Jermaine sits in conversation with world-renowned vocalist Alicia Renee, a.k.a. “Blue Eyes.” Born with striking blue eyes and a voice that has graced stages from the North Sea Jazz Festival to Jazz at Lincoln Center, Blue brings the depth of Jazz, Blues, Gospel, and more into every performance. From singing in multiple languages to collaborations with artists like The Last Poets, Eric Clapton, and Jon Batiste, her story is as captivating as her sound. Tune in to hear about her journey, her inspirations, and what makes her New Orleans' "Gem of the Vieux Carre."

Dip In Ya Hip w/ Chris Rohling

Box of Records w/ Zac Ives

The Crooked Beat w/ Liv Cohen

Light Rotation Radio w/ Lauren Veline

The Witching Hour w/ Sara Moseley

Singer-songwriter Bailey Bigger stopped by Talkin' Memphis for an insightful chat with Ross Devlin about her new album, Resurrection Fern. Known for her captivating melodies and poetic lyrics, Bigger opens up about vulnerability, nature, and the resilience of the human spirit in this release.

Level Lola w/ Ayuna Cage

Sonosphere w/ Amy and Jenny

New New Soft Shoe Show w/ David Swider

Wake N' Break w/Saturna

Mint Cream Tunes w/ Amy Latina

Valley Of The Dolls w/ DJ Divje Babe

Puttin' on Airs w/ Brandi Rinks

Switchin' to Glide w/ Lori and Andy

Robby chats with Kristen in the Memphis Listening Lab about the upcoming record swap.

Jazz-funk maestro Karl Denson of Karl Denson's Tiny Universe provides listeners with a primer to the world of his Mason-Diesel Line Tour, which stops at Railgarten on Friday, October 26.

Jesse chat with Amanda and plays some of his songs.

Graham talks with Mike about his songs and upcoming performance during WYXR's fall pledge drive.

Gia swings by the air room to play a few songs during fall pledge drive. Listen back to the archive!

Aybil dropped by WYXR during our fall pledge drive for a live performance and interview. Tune in to catch a few of her songs and hear her story!

fosterfalls joins Dee on "We Belong" to discuss her upcoming EP 'Somniscience', out on 10/19. She treats us to a couple of live performances in the studio and spins some of her favorite influential tracks.

We’re turning up the heat this Pledge Drive with another thrilling round of our bi-annual Get Buck competition! In case you haven’t caught on yet, here’s how it works: we’ve selected four of Memphis’ finest community champions to battle it out and see who can raise the most bucks while getting the buckest! Show some love for your favorite DJ and help them snag bragging rights, a trophy, and the title of Get Buck Champion! Fancy: Colby Midgett, founder of Premier Flowers, is all about blooming where you’re planted. Known for her creative flair and community spirit, Colby is here to bring a fresh burst of energy and raise funds for a great cause.

We’re turning up the heat this Pledge Drive with another thrilling round of our bi-annual Get Buck competition! In case you haven’t caught on yet, here’s how it works: we’ve selected four of Memphis’ finest community champions to battle it out and see who can raise the most bucks while getting the buckest! Show some love for your favorite DJ and help them snag bragging rights, a trophy, and the title of Get Buck Champion! DJ SaltOnFood: Chef Kelly English, the culinary genius behind Restaurant Iris, is trading his chef’s hat for headphones. Expect a savory and spicy set from this culinary star as he cooks up some serious support!

We’re turning up the heat this Pledge Drive with another thrilling round of our bi-annual Get Buck competition! In case you haven’t caught on yet, here’s how it works: we’ve selected four of Memphis’ finest community champions to battle it out and see who can raise the most bucks while getting the buckest! Show some love for your favorite DJ and help them snag bragging rights, a trophy, and the title of Get Buck Champion! DJ Diamonds: Jay Gattas, Marketing Director at James Gattas Jewelers, knows how to make an impression. He’s bringing his marketing prowess to the decks, ready to shine brighter than ever for WYXR.

We’re turning up the heat this Pledge Drive with another thrilling round of our bi-annual Get Buck competition! In case you haven’t caught on yet, here’s how it works: we’ve selected four of Memphis’ finest community champions to battle it out and see who can raise the most bucks while getting the buckest! Show some love for your favorite DJ and help them snag bragging rights, a trophy, and the title of Get Buck Champion! Bumpin' Bev: Beverly Robertson, co-founder and COO of Trust Marketing, is a Memphis icon known for her leadership and drive. She’s ready to bring her legendary passion to the airwaves and rally support for WYXR!

Catch the special episode of Talkin' Memphis now available in the WYXR archive! MEM Executive Director Elizabeth Cawein sat down with the 2024 Ambassador Access cohort—Lana J, Aybil, and EsMod—to discuss their experiences in the program, their summer tour, upcoming fall releases, solo dates, and, of course, their collaborative set that took place at the Tambourine Bash at the Overton Park Shell. Tune in to hear all about it!

Featuring special guests Holtermonster (creator of Monster Market) and a cinema-inspired playlist by St Francis Elevator Ride.

Ruben Molina, renowned soul music collector and author of Chicano Soul, brings his legendary record collection to La Hora De Sazon on WYXR for a special guest DJ set. Tune in to hear rare gems from his extensive archive of Mexican-American and soul recordings!

Special guests BJ The Chicago Kid & Boo Mitchell discuss recent LP “Gravy” and the intricacies of its production at the legendary Royal Studios. During sessions for the album, under Boo’s leadership, BJ recorded using many of the same hitmaking techniques mastered decades ago in the same studio by Al Green and Willie Mitchell, Boo’s patriarch. Hear more stories behind the Chicago Kid’s pilgrimage to one of Memphis soul’s sacred meccas.

The University of Memphis' Theater & Dance Department presents "12N, Or What You Will," an upcoming show that puts the "shake" in Shakespeare by reimagining his "Twelfth Night" into a disco-infused romantic dramedy.

Arniece checks in with Kid Maestro and IMAKEMADBEATS about the launch of Unapologetic's new beatmaker showcase. The event will be held at Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 7 p.m. in Deep End Theatre inside Memphis Museum of Science and History.

Arniece from Oakhaven, our newest University of Memphis intern, graces the airwaves for a mic check filled with hot R&B and pop.

Catch a special guest DJ hour from Oneida's Barry London, spinning an eclectic mix of tunes ahead of the band's Gonerfest performance on 9/29. Tune in to WYXR to hear a unique blend of sounds from this Brooklyn-based band!

"Hoodoo Train," the 1990 release by Memphis-based all-female band The Hellcats, serves as a compelling snapshot of the city's vibrant roots-punk scene. The album, distributed by New Rose Records in France, embodies a fusion of alternative rock, garage rock, indie rock, and country rock, showcasing the band's versatility and distinctive sound within the broader roots music landscape. Led by a lineup featuring Diane Green, Giovanna Pizzorno, Lisa McGaughran, Lorette Velvette, Misty White, and Su Ondine, The Hellcats deliver a memorable collection of tracks on "Hoodoo Train." The album's eclectic mix includes noteworthy songs like "Where The Hell Is Memphis," "Hoodoo Train," and "Crazy About You Baby." The Hellcats' spirited and rocking approach, coupled with their skillful musicianship, contributes to the album's appeal. Despite the band's relatively short-lived existence, "Hoodoo Train" stands as a testament to The Hellcats' significant presence in the Memphis music scene and their ability to infuse energy and originality into the roots-punk genre.

Cooki B and Joy welcome Jay B. to dive deep into the world of Stax blues deep cuts, including the music of Mighty Joe Hicks, John Lee Hooker, Moloch, Albert King, and more.

Experience the powerful story hour, "Tyre Nichols had a beautiful life." In partnership with MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, this special program features Memphis-born writer and Georgetown professor Zandria F. Robinson reading her evocative piece on Tyre Nichols. Listen and reflect on his spirit, tragic death, and the impact on his family and community.

In a special extra edition of Sunday roots music show "Puttin' On Airs" host Brandi Rinks welcomes singer-songwriters Margo Price and Jeremy Ivey. The star couple sat in for a guest set and interview following a recent performance alongside iconic band Widespread Panic.

WYXR program manager Jared "Jay B." Boyd, also known as DJ Bizzle Bluebland, pays tribute to Stax Records' legacy with a mix show dedicated to the iconic soul label and its influence on music through sampling.

Author and director Robert Gordon reaches into the corners of Stax history that weren't featured in the "Stax: Soulsville, USA."

Host Zac Ives' "Box of Records" is exactly what it says – an opportunity for friends to pull up and play a box of vinyl. In celebration of HBO's "Stax: Soulsville, USA," Stax superfan Jared "Jay B." Boyd joined to spin some soul sides and rarities from the label's artists, songwriters, and producers.

In celebration of this week’s premiere of “Soulsville USA” on HBO and HBO Max, we showed a bunch of Stax Records love on WYXR Memphis. On “Talkin’ Memphis” with James Alexander of the Bar-Kays, we dove deep into the rich history and legacy of Stax Records. James shared behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes from his time at Stax and beyond, giving listeners an insider’s view of one of the most influential record labels in music history.

Celebrate the life and musical legacy of the iconic Johnnie Taylor on what would have been his 90th birthday! Join us for a special radio program honoring this legendary soul artist, from his early gospel roots to his reign as the "Philosopher of Soul." Join host Jared "Jay B." Boyd and special interview guests to commemorate the singer's recent addition to the Beale Street Brass Note Walk of Fame. Tune in to hear his timeless hits and explore the milestones of his remarkable career.

John Buford sat in with Willy Bearden on "Songs That Move You" for a glowing tribute to late singer-songwriter and beloved community luminary John Kilzer.

Memphis rap pioneer and Binghampton representative Lil' Noid visits WYXR to celebrate his recent appearance on The Black Keys' album Ohio Players, with host Jay B. and special guest Cole Wheeler.

Nervous Wreck Radio Pledge Drive Throwdown with Julien Baker, Yella P and friends!

Tune in to hear Kurt Vile, the famous American singer, producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, join Switchin' to Glide to chat.

With sadness, the WYXR family mourns the loss of one of the most dedicated members among our ranks, Jared McStay. With his wife, Lori, Jared has served as the energetic host of Friday's most fun radio romp, "Switchin' To Glide," giving equal time to magnificent music, side-splitting skits, neighborhood news, and some of the absolute best atmosphere any one man could muster. While we remember the impression he's left on our volunteers, staff, and listening audience with sincere and solemn regard, we smile, as Jared often would, when we consider the great honor and dignity he lent to our operation as a volunteer, whether on-air or in our community as an avid ambassador for the beautiful aspects of diverse individuals coming together each week to do radio - because we love it, just as he did. Even in his absence, we strive to follow his lead as a cheerful, joyful, thoughtful, and dynamic participant in the world around us. We hope you'll join us in reflecting on Jared's inspiring life and by joining us to offer warmth and condolences to Jared's family and loved ones. Even in his final months with us, Jared saved a little energy to come by and leave the studio with one last smile and a round of hugs. And his cherished voice will resonate within our realm forever. We'll be partying it up big-time tomorrow for a special memorial edition of "Switchin' To Glide." So, call us at (901)460-3031 and leave a short message for us to play on the airwaves while we remember our dear friend.

Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Jason Isbell came to Memphis on Saturday, September 16th. Before he took the stage at Radians Amphitheater, he was live on-air at WYXR for an exclusive solo acoustic performance and interview in our studio.

During our trip to New York City, we made time for one more exclusive interview with a music industry giant. As perhaps one of the most prolific record executives in modern music, Clive Davis is a noted influence over the carers of countless artists and record industry professionals. If we started listing them now, we'd be here until the next newsletter. So, it shouldn't surprise anyone that, with Memphis' decades-long musical prowess, Davis has crossed paths with quite a few folks from our fair city. We won't blame you if you are surprised that we convinced Mr. Davis to spend an afternoon talking to us during our recent trip to New York City. In fact, we're still a little confused that we pulled it off! Nevertheless, we made it happen, and we're excited for you to hear the conversation, which centers around the Memphis music stories that include Davis' impact. Hear his take on the likes of Aretha Franklin, Maurice White, and, of course, his well-publicized involvement in the final days of Stax Records.

Singer, songwriter, producer, label owner, and painter Dan Greer came by the WYXR studio to share stories of his life in music, from his songwriting exploits with collaborator George Jackson to his production alongside the likes of Linda Luchessi, Mike Curb, and Willie Mitchell. Also, hear how Greer, a recipient of WYXR's 2023 DOWD Award, became inspired by a 1980s hippopotamus to complete his latest project.

The second event of WYXR's Stereo Sessions' season, presented by MEMPHO, took place on April 12th at the Memphis Listening Lab in Crosstown Concourse. Hosted by Jared "Jay B." Boyd, the immersive music experience featured pioneering Memphis rapper The Legend Lady J and her 1994 album "Glock N' My Hand." Attendees were treated to the album on a state-of-the-art sound system and gained insights from The Legend Lady J herself. The event was sponsored by Crosstown Brewing Company, Memphis Listening Lab, Via Productions, and Goner Records, with more information available at wyxr.org/stereo-sessions.

We welcomed Wilco with open arms to perform live in our studio and interview with host Brandi Rinks. Listen to the music and relive the magic moment.