Ahead of the Human Radio Stereo Session on May 14th, bandleader Ross Rice stopped by Song on the Radio to chat with Robby and later, The Big G, about Memphis, getting signed to a major label in the early 90s and a lot more. Listen back!

Shelby and Lauren walk through the summer 2025 lineup for the Overton Park Shell. Season start May 17th.

Fresh off their Riverbeat performance, Memphis alt-rock band Joybomb joins “Sonosphere” for a rare acoustic session. Stripping back their usual high-energy sound, the band offers intimate renditions and insight into the stories behind their songs.

Walt Phelan hangs out with Lauren Veline and plays some tunes!

On today’s show, Amanda honors the late William Luke White with a set of songs he helped bring to life. A cherished figure in the Memphis music community, Luke was a gifted singer, guitarist, songwriter, and collaborator. These tracks celebrate his spirit and the mark he left on those around him.

Da’s Pallet stopped by to play some music with Amanda on Finders Keepers!

Caroline Rose joins Liv on The Drop to talk about their new album, Year of the Slug, and their upcoming tour, which stops in Memphis at Hernando's Hideaway on April 11.

Memphis naves The Narrows stopped by to play music on A Corner Called Jazz

Tim Prudhomme sits down and plays some tunes with Mike Brown on Somewhere There!

Raneem Imam stops by to hang with Trinity Adair during the 2025 Spring Pledge Drive!

Who proved to be the buckest—and who raised the most bucks? 🐐💸 Four community contenders went head-to-head for the crown of the “littest guest DJ” during our Pledge Drive. Supporters dropped their donations at GetBuck.WYXR.org to back their favorite contender, and on Saturday from 12–4 p.m., we revealed who walked away with the coveted trophy.

Who proved to be the buckest—and who raised the most bucks? 🐐💸 Four community contenders went head-to-head for the crown of the “littest guest DJ” during our Pledge Drive. Supporters dropped their donations at GetBuck.WYXR.org to back their favorite contender, and on Saturday from 12–4 p.m., we revealed who walked away with the coveted trophy.

Who proved to be the buckest—and who raised the most bucks? 🐐💸 Four community contenders went head-to-head for the crown of the “littest guest DJ” during our Pledge Drive. Supporters dropped their donations at GetBuck.WYXR.org to back their favorite contender, and on Saturday from 12–4 p.m., we revealed who walked away with the coveted trophy.

Who proved to be the buckest—and who raised the most bucks? 🐐💸 Four community contenders went head-to-head for the crown of the “littest guest DJ” during our Pledge Drive. Supporters dropped their donations at GetBuck.WYXR.org to back their favorite contender, and on Saturday from 12–4 p.m., we revealed who walked away with the coveted trophy.

Memphis native producer & engineer Diamond V joins OZI for an exclusive interview, where she dives into what sparked her passion for music, the creative process behind her upcoming album, and how her collab with Houston legend Paul Wall came to life!

Non-binary filmmaker & composer Cel Shade brings you an hour of metal roots, hip-hop beats, and experimental textures LIVE in the WYXR studio.

Melinda is a new music project from Gabe Hasty. He's partnered with Zach Mitchell of Machine Duplication Recordings, a DIY cassette and VHS outfit from Memphis, to put out cassette of new music. Together on the radio with Witching Hour host Sara Moseley, they played music that inspired the art, song from Melinda, and other tracks from MDR.

Natalie is joined by Greg Cartwright and members of Hartle Road on a special Saturday edition to play some of their favorites.

Take a trip around the globe with All Over the Place, a sonic expedition hosted by Jesse Mansfield and Bruce Saltmarsh. Each week, the duo zeroes in on a different country, exploring its rich musical landscape—from traditional sounds and chart-topping hits to underground movements and the most unexpected oddities. Whether it's rare folk recordings, avant-garde experiments, or dancefloor anthems, All Over the Place is a passport to musical discovery, one nation at a time.

​Big Ears Festival Director Bryan Crow guest-hosted Song on the Radio, featuring artists from the upcoming 2025 Big Ears Festival. Founded in 2009 by Ashley Capps, Big Ears is an annual music festival held in Knoxville, Tennessee, celebrated for its eclectic mix of genres, including indie rock, classical, contemporary classical, alternative rock, minimalist music, jazz, metal, and electronica. Tune in for two hours of music from this year's lineup!

Memphis rap icon DJ Zirk reaches into the depths of the city's streets to present some of the wanginest and banginest music the Bluff City offers.

Lahna Deering performs live on Cabbages and Kings

Memphis based rapper and curator Dame Mufasa has been performing on the underground scene since 2018 with a focus on bridging the gap between hip hop and contemporary art while challenging what’s considered high art throughout the culture with powerful storytelling lyrics and provocative unapologetic stories inspired by his South Memphis upbringing. Dame uses his visual arts background to bring additional texture to his overall aesthetic and live show production demanding rap music be respected as high art from the ghetto to the gallery. Negro Terror is the brainchild of Omar Higgins with the help of family and others. Before Omars untimely passing his wishes were for his family to keep it going (the band and other projects) if things take a turn for the worst. With new line up lead by brother David Higgins (Vox/Guitar) and a rotating roster of amazing musicians.

House Shoes, a renowned Detroit-bred producer, DJ, and champion for his late friend James "J Dilla" Yancey, stopped by Neosoulville to sit with Tonya ahead of his DJ set in Memphis.

From Missy Elliott, Anderson .Paak, and The Killers on down to WYXR's Memphis Rap OGz showcase, the MEMPHO Presents Riverbeat lineup is filled with fantastic surprises. Dig into the details with host Liv Cohen and special guests from the MEMPHO Presents crew.

Dive into two hours of seductive, dreamy, and effortlessly cool French tunes—no passport needed! Join Divje Babe of Valley of the Dolls and Caitlin from On a Racetrack in France as they serve a transatlantic vibe shift you won’t want to miss.

Janet Wilson, the former host of "Jaunt With Janet," rides high with a recap of her favorite 2024 musical selections featuring guest co-host Addison Hare.

w/ Tim and Steve

In this special episode, we sit down with Deaunn Stovall—social-emotional intelligence consultant, "Dandelion Dialogue" podcast host, and community leader—to explore her journey in promoting emotional wellness and personal transformation.

"Have A Talk With Telisa" on WYXR 91.7 FM, hosted by the inspiring Dr. Telisa Franklin, spotlights impactful individuals across business, community, and the arts. In the pilot episode, Dr. Franklin engages Larry Dodson II, a seasoned music business expert, and LaDell Beamon, an acclaimed filmmaker and activist, in a discussion on creativity and community upliftment. This show offers candid conversations that inspire growth, connection, and positive change.

Tonya Dyson Interviews record producer, disc jockey and recording artist Prince Paul on Welcome to Neosoulville, which airs Fridays from 10AM to 12pm!

Emotive and eclectic songstress Ariel Reign, a current member of the Crosstown Arts Residency, shares her music and her journey as a Chicago native traveling to Memphis on a musical voyage.

Get ready to experience Memphis’ newest DJ collective, Sonidero Gótico, as they take over WYXR with their dynamic fusion of dark synth, post-punk, and cumbia. This special event spans three shows: Part 1: Life on Deck (Friday, 6–7 PM) Part 2: Thrust (Sunday, 12–1 PM) AND Valley of the Dolls (Sunday, 1–2 PM) Featuring live studio sets and interviews with DJs La Femme Radical, Kid Mestizo, and Mala Leche, the takeover showcases the collective’s innovative sound and their mission to build inclusive, electrifying spaces in Memphis.

Get ready to experience Memphis’ newest DJ collective, Sonidero Gótico, as they take over WYXR with their dynamic fusion of dark synth, post-punk, and cumbia. This special event spans three shows: Part 1: Life on Deck (Friday, 6–7 PM) Part 2: Thrust (Sunday, 12–1 PM) AND Valley of the Dolls (Sunday, 1–2 PM) Featuring live studio sets and interviews with DJs La Femme Radical, Kid Mestizo, and Mala Leche, the takeover showcases the collective’s innovative sound and their mission to build inclusive, electrifying spaces in Memphis.

Natalie Hoffmann is joined by dynamic Memphis musicians Suroor and W1ND0W to talk about their recent releases and to preview tracks from the upcoming compilation “Vol 2: Memphis Made” on their record label Purgatory Pressings. Originally broadcast on WYXR 91.7 FM on Saturday, November 30th from 2-3pm.

Memphis rap legend DJ Zirk ("Lookin' 4 Da Chewin'," "Lock 'Em In Da Trunk") brings the 90s cassette culture into a close focus on the debut of his weekly mix.

Author and rock critic Ann Powers stopped by to talk about her new Joni Mitchell biography, “Traveling," ahead of her talk at Rhodes College with Dr. Charles Hughes.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.