Wednesday MidDay Medley
TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio
Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists & Bands from KC + Mará Rose Williams + D. Rashaan Gilmore + Sandra Draper

10:00 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists from Kansas City

1. “Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks”
   from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979
   [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]

2. Various Blonde – “Silent Partner” – Single
   from: “Silent Partner” – Single / Various Blonde / April 11, 2025
   [One of three new singles released in the last few months from Various Blonde. “Couldn’t Love Me” was released March 7, 2025, “RAW”was released January 10, 2025. // Various Blonde released the 10-track album, Love Is How We Will Survive on September 1, 2023. That album contained 4 singles released over two years from 2022 to 2023. Various Blonde is a Kansas City based experimental, rock, pop, and funk band originally formed in 2008 and currently served by founder Joshua Allen on guitar, synthesizers, and vocals; and Mark Lomas on drums. The band has been described by Mills Record Company as, “Having all the sex appeal of The Weeknd and all the grit of Rage Against the Machine–the combination makes for a performance that is explosive.” On September 24, 2022 Various Blonde released the single, “Love is How We Survive.” On August 19, 2022 Various Blonde released the single, “Obtuse”. On June 9, 2022 Various Blonde released the single, “Too Many Secrets.” On March 13, 2020 Various Blonde released a three song EP called 3s through The Record Machine. On January 2020 Various Blonde released a three song EP called 3s 1 through The Record Machine. On September 16, 2016 Various Blonde released the 10-track album ALL BASES COVERED through The Record Machine. On January 13, 2015 Various Blonde release the 10-track album, SUMMER HIGH. “More info at: http://www.variousblonde.com]

10:05 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists from Kansas City

3. TheBabeGabe X The Human – “Rozzelle Court”
   from: HONEYPOP RELOADED / Seven Rings Media /Aug. 8, 2025
   [One of two full length albums release in 2025 by TheBabeGabe, the other being HONEYPOP on Seven Rings Media released March 5, 2025, both with production by The Human // After years of being the girl in the band, TheBabeGabe is stepping out, and standing ten toes down. As she dives into her solo career, Gabe brings the same sugary raps and addicting energy that she did as 1/3 of the alt-rap trio BLACKSTARKIDS. This time though, she’s telling her story, and forging a fresh start. The debut mixtape HONEY POP introduces the world to a young black girl from Kansas City that’s hungry for better things for herself and everyone who looks like her. Her energy is infectious, and you won’t want to be the one standing in her way, which becomes clear from the rowdy hook of the project’s lead single PSA. “It’s in my DNA, killing shit like every day, take this as a PSA, don’t give a fuck ‘bout what you say.” // With BLACKSTARKIDS, Gabe gained experience crushing a stage, opening on tour with The 1975, beabadoobee, Glass Animals, & more. That confidence shines through on braggadocios tracks like Only See Me, Pulse, and Pep Rally where she raps, “hoe shut the fuck up when I’m talking, got a pretty face but this mouth repulsive.” Pulling inspiration from future peers like Doja Cat & Tyler, The Creator, Gabe is quick to prove she isn’t restricted to one sound. There’s no shortage of variety with sticky hooks, soulful ballads, Janelle Monáe -esque pop hits, somber reflective cuts, and boomy west-coast kickbacks. // No song boasts this genre-bending ability better than the double track RIOT GRRL//DRAMA QUEEN. Starting with an inspirational pop-punk banger that could make any Olivia Rodrigo fan nod in approval, it soon turns to the emotional DRAMA QUEEN, seeing Gabe grapple with difficult changes and struggle to find the best way forward. Listening to Gabe can often feel like hanging with your bestie in that you’re getting both the yap sessions about the everyday as well as the venting about life’s drama and all its uncertainties. // These confessions, boasts, hooks, croons, screams, beats, and sounds all come together to create an extraordinary portrait of a young artist figuring it out. It’s an unfiltered showcase that sees Gabe pull back the curtain and step forward so you can meet her where she’s at. So when you listen, you’re seeing her for who she really is. And for many, that’s someone you can see yourself in. That’s TheBabeGabe. // TheBabeGabe was one-third of the Kansas City based BLACKSTARKIDZ Gen-Z upstarts BLACKSTARKIDS have released their sixth studio album Saturn Dayz on Sept. 20, 2024 through Dirty Hit Records and immediately followed with an 8-track 7th studio album HEAVEN ON URF, on Oct. 25, 2024 on Dirty Hit Records. Music writer Bill Brownlee talked with us about how the band created a double album, but the record company decided to release as two separate albums. The music from both albums relate to each other. Before the release of Saturn Dayz the band released their single and video “SOULMATEZ!” on August 30, 2024. “SOULMATEZ!,” is a magnetic, blissed-out bop that brings together pop, indie, and alt-rap, reminiscent of Dev Hynes-era Solange mixed with De La Soul. // The follow up to BLACKSTARKIDS’ acclaimed 2022 album CYBERKISS* which featured standout singles “CYBERKISS 2 U* ft. beabadoobee” and “SEX APPEAL,” SATURN DAYZ is an otherworldly, genre-crossing testament to their unrelenting artistry and is their most impressive work to date. PRESS HERE to pre-save SATURN DAYZ. // Putting out music at a prolific rate and making waves for their formidable songwriting and producing talents, as well as their endless energy and truly limitless sound, BLACKSTARKIDS have received critical acclaim from New York Times, MTV, UPROXX, Billboard, Alternative Press, SPIN, Ones To Watch, Rolling Stone France, The Line Of Best Fit, DIY, Coup De Main, and more. Blending garage rock with synth-punk and hip-hop to usher in a new surge of indie, such as on their beloved album Puppies Forever which features anthemic singles “ALL COPS ARE BASTARDS,” “JUNO,” and “FIGHT CLUB,” BLACKSTARKIDS are well on their way to indie stardom and have previously toured with the likes of The 1975, COIN, Glass Animals, beabadoobee, Christian Leave, GroupLove. // Incorporating each member’s wide-ranging influences into their blissful DIY sound, such as Toro Y Moi, NERD*, Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Outkast, Odd Future, and A Tribe Called Quest, BLACKSTARKIDS first captivated the internet with their “black coming of age trilogy” of projects Let’s Play Sports, Surf, and Whatever, Man that feature critically acclaimed singles including “BRITNEY BITCH” and “FRANKIE MUNIZ.” // Blackstarkids are phenomenon who came out of KC in 2020 became the soundtrack for the summer. Members include: TheBabeGabe, Deiondre, and TyFaizon (of the Drop Dead XX collective). The members have known each other since high school in Raytown, Missouri. Members met at Raytown South High School and formed the band in 2019. The group released its first album, Let’s Play Sports, on August 1, 2019. Blackstarkids then released their second album SURF through their own label Bedroom Records on February 28, 2020. Blackstarkids caught the attention of The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy and were then signed to The 1975’s management company and UK-based label Dirty Hit Records. They were featured in Clash Magazine. Blackstarkids then released, Surf Basement Demos on Dirty Hit Records on March 5, 2020. On Oct. 29, 2020, Blackstarkids released Whatever, Man on Dirty Hit Records, their third album release of 2020. Gabe, of Blackstarkids recently described the KC Music community to an interviewer, “The music scene here is really nice. There are a lot of bands who are super talented and do all types of genres. The jazz music here is really great as well. KC is honestly a hidden gem when it comes to music. I feel like you can meet an artist anywhere and anyplace in this city.”]

10:08 – Pledge Break #1

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

Today WMM Celebrates Black History with 20 Black Artists & Bands from Kansas City

Special co-hosts:

Mará Rose Williams is The Kansas City Star’s Senior Columnist, she is the former assistant managing editor for race and equity issues. She has served as a member of the Star’s Editorial Board and she is an award-winning columnist. She has written on all things education for The Star since 1998, including issues of inequity in education, teen suicide, universal pre-K, college costs & racism on university campuses. She was a writer on The Star’s 2020 “Truth in Black amd White” project, and the recipient of the 2021 Eleanor McClatchy Award for exemplary leadership skills and transformative journalism. Mará is the creator, co-host and co-producer of The Kansas City Star’s radio series, VOICES OF KANSAS CITY, produced on collaboration with 90.1 FM KKFI

Mara Rose Williams thanks for being our guest on WMM

D. Rashaan Gilmore is host of “Unbossed and Unbothered with D. Rashaan Gilmore,” on KKFI Saturday nights at 5:00pm. D. Rashaan Gilmore is a two-time Emmy Award winning host and producer of Flatland In Focus on Kansas City PBS. A life-long resident of Kansas City. D Rashaan is a community connector, organizer, collaborator, and AIDS activist, who serves as Founder and President/CEO at BlaqOut KC, which seeks to organize and mobilize the black, gay community in Kansas City and develop a leadership core. Gilmore has previously managed multiple significant HIV/ AIDS awareness and prevention grants for the Kansas City CARE Clinic. D Rashaan has also served as the Senior Field Organizer for PROMO, Missouri’s statewide LGBT equality and advocacy organization. Prior to Unbossed and Unbotheted D. Rashaan spent 4 years as part of the team of host & Producers on KKFI’s program The Tenth Voice.

D. Rashaan Gilmore thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.

Also with us is Sandra Draper a member of KKFI’s Board of Directors, Sandra was born in Kansas City and attended Paseo High School. Sandra became a student at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, and eventually returned to Kansas City to complete her last year graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree studying history and communications from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. She is the mother of four children three sons and one daughter. While her children were all born on different years 1978, 1979, 1980, and 1984 two of her sons were born on the same day, and her daughter and other son were also born on the same day. For the past year Sandra has been volunteering at KKFI and has very recently began hosting, engineering, and producing her own radio show, Silky San’s Soul Sensations Mondays at 4:00pm to 6:00pm on 90.1 FM – KKFI.

Sandra Draper, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio is Non-Commercial, and that means that three times a year, we interrupt our regular programming, to ask our listeners, to help us continue our unique, 24-7 programming. For 38 years 90.1 FM KKFI has been on the air. While the spirit of this station is kept alive by hundreds of volunteers who passionately donate their time and abilities to keep the transmission of our 100,000-watt-signal alive. We are a operated by a not-for-profit organization, incorporated over 40 years ago, called The MidCoast Radio Project. We are a non-profit, with a dedicated paid staff of four incredible individuals, and hundreds of volunteers, who donate thousands of hours every year, producing radio shows, training new hosts & producers, developing new radio shows, serving our vast community landscape with music and news, information and stories that reflect the many communities we serve. We do all of this because of YOU and it is because of our incredible listeners, who take a moment and call 888-931-0901 and donate, that we are able to continue. You keep us alive! Our volunteers are waiting to hear from YOU right now. WE NEED YOU – MORE THAN EVER.

WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists & Bands from Kansas City

90.1 FM KKFI’s non-profit organization and governing body is the MidCoast Radio Project. MidCoastal is where we are, on the coasts of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers with a music community that spans the Kansas City Metro region and west to Lawrence and Topeka and south to Olathe and east to Columbia and North to St Joseph. Not necessarily the reach of our 100,000 watt signal but definitely the reach of our community.

WMM & KKFI are committed to featuring artists under-represented in other media, and that includes KC & Lawrence Arts & Music Community, where for 22 years we’ve shined a light on artists, music labels, recording studios, & venues.

Wednesday MidDay Medley was the first radio show to ever play the recordings of: Calvin Arsenia, Stephonne, Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear, Krystle Warren, The Black Creatures, The Shy Boys, The Salvation Choir, The Creepy Jingles, Ivory Blue, Miki P., Kai McGarry, Rude Cousin. We were the first to interview these artists live on the radio and bring their music to a wider audience.

10:16 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists & Bands from Kansas City

4. Malek Azrael – “You”
   from: “You” – Single / Malek Azrael / February 27, 2026
   [Malek recently wrote to me about this new single, saying,”This record means a lot to me. “YOU” lives in that pop/indie pop space with smooth R&B vocals and textures, blending traditional pop sensibility with the singer songwriter honesty I always try to bring. It’s about that unexpected moment of falling in love and choosing to be fully open — even when it feels a little scary. Very warm, very intentional.” // On March 1, 2025 Malek Azrael released the EP, FEELS LIKE. It was part of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2025. On February 28, 2025, Malek Azrael released the single “Room 4U”. // On March 1, 2024 Malek Azrael released his single, “in ur mind.” On October 15, 2021 Malek Azrael released his 10-track album “Waves” which first featured members of his live band “The Vibez”. Since then, they have grown their fanbase in KC and surrounding areas through live concerts land appearances at Boulevardia Festival, Ameri’Kana, and the 18th and Vine Gumbo Fest, and shows at RecordBar, The Truman, Grinders, and Knuckleheads and collaborated with larger acts such as Making Movies, The Greeting Committee, and D Smoke debut. Male Azrael lives in KCMO. He has worked for Boys Grow, and Art As Mentorship (Making Movies non-profit organization). He sometimes plays with Making Movies and played the Ameri-Kana Fest. Malek Azrael played KKFI’s 18th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, on Aug. 27, at The Black Box, in West Bottoms. Malek & The Vibez played Boulevardia Festival at Crown Center, on June 16, 2024.]

[Malek Azrael plays the POP IS BLACK concert at Zhou B Art Center, 1801 East 18th St, Kansas City, MO, on Saturday, February 28, at 6:00pm, with Broderick Jones, Hailes, Shay Lyriq, and DJ Skeme – ending Black History Month on a high note!]

5. HAILES – “Chess (Radio Edit)”
   from: FIVE (EP) / Magic Mango Music / September 29, 2025
   [Debut EP from KC based R&B artist HAILES. After graduating from Blue Valley West High School and briefly attending college, Hailes spent two years in the U.S. tour of The Wizard of Oz before moving to New York in 2017 to continue her acting career. COVID-19 shut down theatre and HAILES turned her energies toward writing music. When Broadway came back to life, HAILES returned to theatre and joined the Hadestown Broadway Tour for three years. While on tour Hailes continued writing music. // The music on her debut EP FIVE came from her time attending a writing camp in Austin, Texas. // HAILES told Cameron Castaldi of KJHK “On the road, I always had my recording equipment, so in every hotel that we got to, I would set up my little studio and write sporadically throughout the week.” // After living in New York City for the last seven years, R&B artist, songwriter, and actress Hailes is back home in Kansas City. She had her first concert in Kansas City on August 5, 2025 at The Blue Room. / More info at:www.hailes.komi.io/.]

[Hailes plays the POP IS BLACK concert at Zhou B Art Center, 1801 East 18th St, Kansas City, MO, on Saturday, February 28, at 6:00pm, with Broderick Jones, Malek Azrael, Shay Lyriq, and DJ Skeme – ending Black History Month on a high note!]

6. Broderick Jones – “Tell Me (fest. Calio)”
   from: “Tell Me (feat. Calio)” – Single / Atlantic Recording Corporation / March 28, 2022
   [Broderick Jones is a pop sensation from Kansas taking the music scene by storm. He was born in Olathe, Kansas, where he grew up dreaming of one day becoming the greatest artist coming out of Kansas. Jones developed his zeal for singing when he was only a little kid. He dreamt of singing at events like the Super Bowl and Grammys and pretended to be on stage in his living room After his mother disallowed him from singing, Jones gave it up until completing high school. However, after high school, he again picked it back up. His 2014 debut album, “Cuddle,” quickly gained popularity with its catchy acoustic tunes. His 2016 feature on the “It’s Different” Pokemon Ü remix, was viewed 1 million times in less than 24 hours, and propelled him to the next level. Since then, he’s been featured on many successful projects and have racked up over 34 million views on YouTube alone. // With the release of his first EP, “Me,” in 2017 and his perfect blend of pop, R&B, and rap, his name has continued to grow locally and worldwide. Broderick’s singles “FaceTime” and “Where Did You Go” have solidified him as a rising star and someone to watch for the years to come. In early 2022, Broderick was chosen to represent Kansas in NBC’s hit TV show “American Song Contest,” hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson. Placing in the top 10 in the competition. More info at http://www.broderickjones.com]

[Broderick Jones plays the POP IS BLACK concert at Zhou B Art Center, 1801 East 18th St, Kansas City, MO, on Saturday, February 28, at 6:00pm, with, Hailes, Malek Azrael, Shay Lyriq, and DJ Skeme – ending Black History Month on a high note!]

7. Paris Williams “alien luv (feat. Saving Miles Lemon)” (clean edit)
   from: A Paris Williams Joint / Bitter Sweet Sound / November 19, 2024
   [Paris Williams is a 26-year old artist from Muskegon, Michigan in the midst of redefining the bedroom pop label. Employing his own sound that he’s dubbed, “bittersweet,” Williams never shuts away from his DIY aesthetic – producing his own work to maintain full creative flexibility. Premiering in December of 2019 with his debut album, DROP DEAD GORGEOUS, Paris is a believer in hitting the ground running and then just never letting off the gas. This mentality was shaped by the inspiration he’s pulled from other famously out-of-the-box artists: such as Kanye West, Pharrell, and Toro y Moi. // Fueled by the multi-faceted artists, Williams believes heavily in pulling from all creative mediums as a way to add layers and texture to his music. This approach has led to Williams seeing support from larger than life musical pillars, like Iggy Pop himself – who showed love to Williams’ song of the same name by spinning it on his BBC radio show in 2018. Williams reshapes the musical landscape around him as his burgeoning career continues to solidify its own form more and more each day by bringing in a breath of fresh air with him everywhere since he wrote his first bars in elementary school. Paris Williams previously released the EP COCOA on December 10, 2020 . // He released the single , “Austin”on February 18, 2021. // Paris Williams released the single, “Sweeter” on July 9, 2021. // He released the single, “Sunsets & Solariums (feat. Bloom Allen)” on October 21, 2021 through Bittersweet Sounds. // He released the single ,“Chunky”on April 20, 2022. // He released the single, “Hopscotch” on June 21, 2022. // Paris Williams released the EP REBEL HEART on January 31, 2023. This release was part of WMM ‘s 120 Best Recordings of 2023. // Paris Williams released the single, “Pack Light” on July 25, 2023. // Paris Williams with Globetrotters & Kaleab Samuel released the single, “C.est La Vie” on September 14, 2024, // Paris Williams with Globetrotters & Kaleab Samuel released the single, “Ayo (Feat TyFaison)” on September 18, 2024. // Paris Williams & The Human released the 10-track album, A Paris Williams Joint through Bitter Sweet Sound on November 19, 2024. This release was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. // Paris Williams & TheBabeGabe released the single “Me Again” on April 28, 2025. // Paris Williams & Bloom Allen released the single “Truthfully” (radio edit) through BitterSweet Sound on August 12, 2025. // More info at: allmylinks.com/popstarparis]

[Paris Williams plays recordBar 1520 Grand Ave, KCMO, on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 7:00 opening or Slum Village (Detroit Hip Hop royalty established in the early 1990s ) with Greg Enemy.]

10:27 – Underwriting

10:28 – Pledge Break #2

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

Today WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists from Kansas City

90.1 FM KKFI’s non-profit organization and governing body is the MidCoast Radio Project. MidCoastal is where we are, on the coasts of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers with a music community that spans the Kansas City Metro region and west to Lawrence and Topeka and south to Olathe and east to Columbia and North to St Joseph. Not necessarily the reach of our 100,000 watt signal but definitely the reach of our community.

90.1 FM KKFI is “Radio Powered By Diversity” For 38 Years our Kansas City Area Community Speaks Through our Airwaves and this Program.

Last year in 2025 Mark conducted over 175 interviews with 159 special guests:

Krystle Warren, elska, Michelle Bacon, Mike Dillon, Peregrine Honig, Malek Azrael, Joshua Luke, Izzy Vivas, Julie Bennet Hume, Doug Hitchcock, Diana Watts, Kevin King, Daniel Gum, Chris Garibaldi, Mark Henning, Ross Brown, Miquel Antonio, Daniel Cole, Paul Seiz, Cody Ryan Stapleton, Matt Muckenthaler, Nathan Reusch, Zach Lamun, Les Izmore, Charlie Colborne, Billy Belzer, T.A. Rell, Just Angel, Dylan Pease, Andy Wooden, Betse Ellis, Rachel Christia, Mikal Shapiro, Seth Davis, Evan Verploegh, Shanté Clair, Benjamin Baker, SEYKO, Cole Bales, Cody Calhoun, Noah Cassity, Kole Waters, Alex May, Stephonne, Danielle Anderson, Zach Hodson, Valerie Schurman, Joe Frogge, Fally Afani, Til Willis, Heather Pontonio, Jose Faus, Elizabeth Bettendorf Bowman, Chico Sierra, Zo E., Jaclyn Danger, Simon Huntley, J. Ashley Miller, Grace Broadhead, Jason Turk, Sandra Draper, Enrique Chi, Julia Othmer, James T. Lundie, Alber, Jennie Ferguson, Scott Mize, Matt Kesler, Shaun Crowley, Paul Jesse, Alex Wong, Jen Kiper, David Luther, Sergio Anthony Gonzalez, Jeremiah James Gonzalez, Katlyn Conroy, Chris Catterall, Cheyenne Jackson, Kate McCandless, Moksha Sommer, Jemal Wade Hines, Chris Haghirian, James McGee, Meighan Peifer, Michael McQuary, Joey Arias, Lonnie Fisher, Tara Fisher, Adee Dancy aka Sisterbot, Hadiza., Suzannah Johannes, Keelon Van, Alyssa Murray, Ernest Melton, Mará Williams, J.M. Banks, Beth Watts Nelson, Spencer Thompson, Amanda Davis, Derek Trautwein, Dedric Moore, Rachel Lovelace, Kai McGarry, Alicia McGarry, Sandra Draper, Steve Tulipana, Day Shepherd, Tirzah DeMeire, Keyon Monté, Lee Sampson, Joel Stratton, Jim Hubbell, TheBabeGabe, TyFaison, Mitzi McKee, Don Simon, Morgan Holcomb, Bill Sundahl, Rick Truman, Nick Carswell, Brody Lowe, Fritz Hutchison, Mark Ronning, Iona DeWalt, Nan Turner, Amy Steinberg, Pete Kuhn, Brandon Day, Flare Tha Rebel, Margo May, Jared Bond, Tim York, Rita Hanch, Brock Johnson, Howard Iceberg, Chad Brothers, Julie Bates, Andrew Morris, Bess Wallerstein-Huff, Christopher Ruiz, Wills Nan Doorn, Sondra Freeman, Steddy P, David George, Scotty Sharp, Ben Wendt, Brock Wilbur, Nick Spacek, Gabe Rivera, Sara Swenson, Tommy Capps, Dirk Liebert, Graham Stone, Barry Lee, Chuck Haddix, Judy Mills, and Bill Brownlee.

In 2025 there were over 1675 MidCoastal (KC area) releases in Albums, EPs, & Singles…(that we know of). On WMM we culled these releases for our specail mix of New & MidCoastal releases. In 2025 we’ve broadcast nearly 900 different tracks on WMM over our 100,000 watts of 90.1 FM Community Radio Airwaves.

Since 2009 WMM has presented an end of year special WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of the Year, a 4-part, 4 week series. All of our Best of Lists and all of our weekly playlists are available at: Our “Best of Lists” can be found at: http://www.wednesdaymiddaymedley.org

10:36 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists from Kansas City

The Lyric Opera of Kansas City Presents Porgy and Bess at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre – Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway, KCMO, on Saturday, February 28 at 7:30pm, Friday, March 6 at 7:30pm, and Sunday, March 8, at 2:00pm.

Presented for the first time in Lyric Opera history, Porgy and Bess is the quintessential American opera. The source of some of the twentieth century’s most beloved songs—including “Summertime”—this jazzy Gershwin score is unforgettable. The opera paints a vivid picture of life in the Charleston neighborhood Catfish Row.

8. Calvin Arsenia – “Summertime”
   from: Live at Greenwood Social Hall / Calvin Arsenia / Unreleased, 2017
   [from Calvin’s June 11, 2017 live performance at Greenwood Social Hall, 1760 Bellevue. // Calvin Arsenia a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, teacher, writer, actor, model, designer, and artist. Calvin is also the curator at the Greenwood Social Hall. Calvin Arsenia was born in Orlando, Florida. His creative journey began when he moved to Olathe, Kansas, teaching himself guitar, piano, banjo. He learned the harp, at the age of 20. Calvin Arsenia first appeared on WMM on July 25, 2012. His passion for stretching the boundaries saw him transformed after a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Festival early in his career. An Edinburgh church offering him a role as musical liaison between the church and the city that would change his life. Two years and 300 shows later, Calvin returned to KC reborn as a humanistic songwriter / performer where at 24 he released his EP, MOMENTS, in 2014, his EP, PROSE in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP, CATASTROPHE in 2016. On February 14, 2017 Calvin released his full length debut, CATASTROPHE, with a live show at recordBar in November 2016, involving 50 people: dancers, body painting, stilt walkers. After signing to Center Cut Records, Calvin released the albums: CANTALOUPE in 2018, with a sold out show at The Gem Theatre on September 15, 2018. He then released, L.A. SESSIONS in 2019, along with the EP, HONEY DEW, the EP, GODDESS with Quixotic, and the holiday album, ALL IS CALM. In 2020 Calvin collaborated with Mike Dillon on the Soundtrack to “SUMMER IN HINDSIGHT,” a feature-length film created by The West 18th Street Fashion Show that starred Calvin as an actor. Calvin Arsenia released his 14 track album PARADISE to fans on June 23, 2023. His most biographical album yet, with songs about Black Lives Matter, racism, probation, gay love, and collaborations with Cheery, Kadesh Flow & Jametatone. KC Magazine hailed Calvin as “equal parts opera, symphony, musical theatre, rock show, all built around its creator, a charismatic 6-foot-7-inch harpist with a 3 and ½ octave range, natural stage command and knack for gilding gold and painting lilies.” Calvin Arsenia was voted KC’s Best Musician in The Pitch in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. He has been featured in Billboard, NPR.org. Calvin is the recipient of the Charlotte Street Foundation 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards, along with The Black Creatures. Calvin is also the co-creator of the podcast, “We Were Christian Kids” created with childhood friend Justin Randall who is a stand up comedian working in New York City and Los Angeles. Calvin is also the published author of EVERY GOOD BOY DOES FINE, a collection of Poetry & Prose published on October 5, 2021, by Andrews McMeel Universal. ]

Events at Greenwood Social Hall, 1750 Belleview Ave, 2nd Floor, KCMO

[Guinevere Goodwin + Fritz & Sons + Honeybee play Greenwood Social Hall, 1750 Belleview Ave, 2nd Floor, KCMO on Friday, February 27m 2926 at 7:00pm]

[Monarch String Trio: Pop Queens on Strings play Greenwood Social Hall, 1750 Belleview Ave, Kansas City, MO Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Doors at 6:30 pm Music at 7:00 pm]

[Cera Impala plays Greenwood Social Hall on Sunday, March 15 at 7:00PM]

9. Laurent Marode & Eboni Fondren – “I’m Beginning To See The Light”
   from: Eboni Fondren With Laurent Marode Orchestra / Laurent Marode / September 10, 2024
   [boni Fondren is a dynamic vocalist who captivates audiences with her passionate performances and unmatched energy on stage. Known for her precise interpretations of jazz standards, beautifully infused with a touch of R&B, Eboni lights up every room she steps into. Her smooth, sultry vocals and lyrical storytelling leave listeners entranced, craving more with every note. // A graduate of the Everette DeVan School of Groove in 2012, Eboni has since risen to become one of Kansas City’s premier jazz vocalists. Whether fronting her own projects, such as Eboni and the Ivories, lending her talents to Lost Wax Band, or collaborating with the city’s finest musicians, Eboni is a staple of the Kansas City jazz scene, entertaining audiences with her soulful swing at top venues around town. // Her accolades speak volumes about her talent and impact. Eboni was named Favorite Jazz Vocalist by the KC Jazz Ambassadors for three consecutive years (2021, 2022, 2023) and Favorite Vocalist in The Pitch Best 2024. She was recognized as a “Woman to Watch” by Her Life Magazine and proudly represents Kansas City Jazz as part of VisitKC’s initiatives. Most notably, she represented the United States at the 2023 G20 Summit in Varanasi, India—a testament to her extraordinary artistry. // Eboni’s recent creative ventures include the release of her debut album, The Journey: To Kansas City with Love, in July 2024, and An American in Paris, recorded in Paris, France, with the Laurent Marode Orchestra, released in October 2024. With each project, she not only honors her jazz roots but also redefines what it means to be a modern-day jazz performer. // From Kansas City to international stages, Eboni Fondren continues to inspire with her passion, elegance, and infectious love for music.]

[Internationally acclaimed vocalist and entertainer. EBONI FONDREN brings her dynamic one-woman show, JAZZ: THE WOMEN WHO SHAPED ME to Quality Hill Playhouse, 303 West 10th St., KCMO on March 4 through March 15, 2026. Ms. Fondren amplifies legendary women of jazz, including Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn and more]

10. Jass – “Hope.Wav”
    from: “Hope.Wav” – Single / Jass / February 29, 2024.
    [Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch. Jass is currently working with her band Jass and the ConrtraBand.. Jass recently released the single, Autumn in The City” on September 22, 2025 This release captures Jass’s dynamic sound in a live band recording, tracked and recorded by bandmate Clarence Copridge. The smooth vocals from Jass and instrumentals of vibes and upright bass in this track are the perfect end of summer/welcome to fall track. // Jass writes, “My new single ‘Autumn in the City” s close to my heart—paying homage to my hometown and the fall season that inspires so much love and reflection. Huge thanks to everyone who came out and supported us.” // Jass released the EP APRIL SHOWERS on April 27, 2025. // Jass released the single “Hope.wav” on February 29, 2024. // Jass and The Boys released the single, “Daydream Girl” on August 25, 2023. // Jass and The Boys released the single “Gvn2u” on July 14, 2023. // Jass released the single, “Time&Space” on July 14, 2023. // Jass released the single, “Eye Contact.” // Jass released the single, “Lifetime” on January 6, 2023 // Jass and The Boys released the single “Love U Like I Love U” on December 2, 2022. Jass released the single “grow” on November 26, 2022. Jass released the EP, OFF KEY: TOO HIGH on September 23, 2022. Jass released the single “Higher Ground” on August 16, 2022. It was #1 on WMM’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2022. Jass released her single, “Him” on February 23, 2022. Jass released At the Close of a Decade on November 26, 2022. It was part of WMM’s 121 Best Recordings of 2021. She wrote, “After years of writing and recording in voice memos .. I decided to grab my iPad and began recording something that I am very proud of. I named it, At the Close of A Decade, and released it in November 2019. With my iPhone/iPad, some apple headphones, I created this project. The amazing people around me told me it was worth it, even when I didn’t believe it myself. I convinced myself I would be the only one that liked my songs. If you decide to listen you’ll hear sound clips of shows and movies that made a difference in the way I saw the world, the way I saw myself, and the way I overcame my experiences. I remember asking my grandma and my son if I should release what I’ve been writing and they both said very simply to do it, so I’ve done it. I want to thank all of my wonderful friends who have been my soundboards during this process, all of the people that have asked me when it’s coming, the people that have kept me accountable, and believed that this time it was for real. My story is so very triumphant and beautiful because I have overcome experiences and shunned the fear I had to do what I love. It’s crazy how you can talk your way out of some amazing things and also how you can talk yourself into making some amazing things happen. If you partake, I hope you enjoy.” // Jass has opened for Thundercat sat GRINDERS, headlined a show at The Bottleneck in Lawrence, and she opened up for The New Respects at The Uptown, and sang the Negro National Anthem at BLAQUE to School Night at the KC Monarchs game.More info at: http://www.jassrcouch.com]

11. The Freedom Affair – “The Water”
    rom: The Freedom Affair / Sunflower Soul Records / May 9, 2025
    [Shon Ruffin on vocals, Paula Saunders on vocals, Seyko Groves on vocals, Cole Bales on guitar, Branden Moser on bass & Acoustic Guitar, Chris Hazelton on Hammond B3 Organ, Wurlitzer, Rhodes, Piano, Bass (Track 4), Vocals; Dave Brick on drums; Pete Carroll on trumpet & flugelhorn; Brett Jackson on tenor sax, baritone sax, tambourine. Recorded at Royal Studios in Memphis, TN. Recording Engineer: Boo Mitchell. Tape Operator: Wesley Graham. Produced by: Chris Hazelton, Dave Brick, and The Freedom Affair. Mixed by: Vince Chiarito. Mastered by: JJ Golden at Golden Mastering. Horn Arrangements by: Hazelton, Carroll, Jackson, and Bales. Design and Layout: Tracy Lenihan // The Freedom Affair has planted deep roots in soul music from their start, but after nearly a decade together, the group’s self-titled sophomore album focuses their sound squarely where Muscle Shoals meets Memphis Soul. It’s a masterstroke of impassioned message-music exploring ageless themes of inequity, love, and togetherness. // A fateful February 2023 encounter with Grammy Award-winning recording engineer Boo Mitchell (Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars, Al Green) at Royal Studios created a spark that sent the band back to Kansas City with new musical conviction. By November, the band had returned to record all-new Southern Soul-inspired songs in the legendary Memphis studio. // The ever-powerful female trio fronting the band–Paula Saunders, Seyko Groves, and Shon Ruffin–has been the hallmark of The Freedom Affair’s sound and identity, and their collective vocal prowess is on full display ranging from tough to tender, touching on heartache and hope. The experience at Royal studios convinced the band that there isn’t a better room to record horns. The “one take” horns of Pete Carroll on trumpet and Brett Jackson on saxophone prove their years together as a unit have paid off with their precision and lines written to meet the vibe perfectly. With rhythm section personnel remaining the same from their debut album Freedom is Love, a shift in instrumentation moves Chris Hazelton from bass to his primary instrument of the Hammond B3 organ along with various keyboards. Branden Moser swaps in the bass, which also happens to be his primary instrument, from his former rhythm guitar. Cole Bales continues to dig into timeless riffs on lead guitar, and Dave Brick maintains the backbone with the heavy boom-bap on drums. This album has cemented The Freedom Affair’s sound: enduring melodies with rich arrangements, backed by a gritty pulse. // Royal was the perfect site for this album, and the band took full advantage of the studio’s history by incorporating studio tools and relics throughout the process. With only four days to fully track the ten-song album, the band insisted on using the same Ampex 1” tape recorder that produced all the Hi Record hits from 1974 and prior to preserve authenticity. It was the first time the machine had been used for an album since 1974. The limitations and quirks of using vintage, analog gear made way for magic moments that shape the album’s charm. The record calls fresh attention to classic Southern Soul with all the coziness and warmth you’d expect from listening to Al Green or Ann Peebles, captured in the very same room. Mixed by Vince Chiarito (Hive Mind, Jalen Ngonda, Charles Bradley) and mastered by JJ Golden (Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, The James Hunter Six, Antibalas), this album is a truly an all-killer, no-filler lesson in soul music.]

10:49 – Pledge Break #3

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

Where do listeners go to learn more about: Environmental issues, Immigration, Labor rights, Renters Rights, LGBTQIA issue, Urban Issues, Women’s Issues, Native American Issues, Understanding Israel Palestine, Educational Issues, School Boards and Local Politics, our area Prison Population, Economic Issues, The Kansas City Visual & Literary Arts , The Performing Arts, Stadium Campaigns, National Headlines? Where do listeners go to hear: Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Classical, Hip Hop, Folk, Women’s Music, Indie Rock, Pop, Electronica, Punk…the answer is KKFI 90.1 FM Kansas City Community Radio. KKFI host 88 locally produce radio shows each creating weekly content to serve multiple communities of diversity across our listening audience.

We’re living in an age when an entire Political Party, a President, his entire cabinet, the U.S. Congress & Senate, The Supreme Court, Kansas & Missouri State governments are eliminating healthcare & legal protections for women, equality, civil rights, jobs, minorities, people living with disabilities, children, rolling back equality for Transgender, Non-Binary & Queer friends. With the recent narrow passage of Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill – ICE now has an estimated budget of $150 billion between now and 2029—an annual average of $37.5 billion, which is higher than the military expenditure of all but 15 countries.

Things aren’t so good for pubic broadcasting. The president formally requested that Congress to rescind $1.1 billion in federal subsidies for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which lawmakers had already approved. Congress rescinded federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and public radio stations such as KKFI, KCUR, Classical KC, and 90.9 The Bridge have lost thousands in additional grants that help to sustain non-commercial broadcasters.

Music and the arts permeate almost every aspect of public media–from shows dedicated to music discovery and local artists to live on-air performances and concert calendars, public media provides access to music genres and artists that in many cases are ignored by commercial media.

Without federal funding from the CPB and CPB’s management of these music rights, public radio stations face a diminished capacity to deliver the quality and variety of music you rely on, both on the radio and through our streaming platforms. The loss of CPB’s role in securing music licenses is truly an existential threat for noncommercial public media.

KC’s noncommercial stations provide critical pipelines for new, local artists & music to be discovered, with many artists attributing their success to their start on public radio. We also bolster local arts economies by forging partnerships with local arts organizations and performance venues, creating opportunities for the community to engage with them.

10:57

12. Sinple – “Broadway Exit”
    from: Music For Machines (Vol. 4) / Sinple / February 26, 2026
    [Since his debut release Us in 2014 he has released 15 albums and 24 music videos. Many of his recordings were inspired by Brian Eno. In June 2018 Jesse Bartmess left KC and moved to Los Angeles, California where he continued recording and playing in bands. Last September Jesse moved back to KC. As a live performer he has opened for Phantogram, The Soft Moon, EMA and Class Actress. Jesse played keyboards for Bad Dreamer with Joe Stanziola, and The Wild Type. He has also played in the bands: High Tatras, and Boy Detective. His music can be found at: http://www.sinple.bandcamp.com.]

11:00 – Station ID

11:00 – Pledge Break #4

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

On May 13, 2026 – WMM will celebrate 22 Years on the radio.

As of this week WMM has done 1136 weeks, equal to 2272 hours of radio, over 18,000 hours of preparation, 3000 interviews, over 3000 guests, and nearly 25,000 songs, from thousands of musical artists. We have made it our mission to mix musical genres, playing with themes, diversity, equality, free speech, connecting artists and venues and listeners and communities. Wednesday MidDay Medley has proudly endeavored to help tell the story of our growing Kansas City area music community, “The Midcoast Sound,” as we like to call it. We have dedicated a majority of our programming to New & MidCoastal Releases.

WMM has presented new formats in radio, with our “A Story In A Song” series, our shows featuring: Apocalypse Meow, Juneteenth, Power to The People Fest, Crossroads Music Fest, Folk Alliance International, Manor Fest, The Outer Reaches Festival, Boulevardia. KC Fringe Festival, Waldo Folk Series, Shuttlecock Music, The Folly Theatre, Owen Cox Dance Group, Bach Aria Soloists, KC Pride, our annual tribute shows to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., David Bowie, Iris Dement, Pioneers of Punk, LGBTQIA Themes, Black Lives Matter and interviews with Lily Tomlin, Laurie Anderson, Tommy Ramone, Sweet Honey in The Rock, Joey Arias, Cheyenne Jackson, Iris Dement, Flamy Grant, Members of Fanny, Regina Spektor, Regina Carter, Tom Miller, Nick Cave, Holly Near, Sam Harris, our annual 4-week special: WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of the Year.

To say this WMM has been inspired by the KC music community. The KC music community is fueled by a collaborative and generous heart that is beating in so many of the artists we’ve met while doing this show.

We are inspired by the Fearless Women who created radio on 90.1 FM long before us: our friendApril Fletcher who plays bass professionally in Los Angeles, and hosted Mix Well Before Serving on 90.1 in 1988 on KKFI’s first year of broadcast, and two years ago returned after 37 years to host and produce WMM.

We are inspired by our friend Anne Winter, who left us in 2009, and reminded us how we’re all connected. At Anne’s funeral we realized that we are connected to hundreds of other people who Anne had touched with her gentle, wise, guidance and had nudged into taking a job, going out on a stage, organizing an event, doing a radio show. We were all connected, she had loved us all and supported us, and some of us made a pact to do just a little bit of what Anne did, if we all did a little we could continue her work to help build our community, that is how we keep Anne alive in our heart.

And through collaboration, and shining a light, like Abigail Hope Henderson, who we lost in 2013, but not before she ignited a movement to create the Midwest Music Foundation supporting heath care needs and mental health care for the music community. I’m inspired by the diverse , intelligent, motivated, listeners, looking for place on the dial, where they can connect to the stories & music & voice of our community.

11:16

13. Krystle Warren – “Red Clay”
    from: Three The Hard Way / Parlour Door Music / August 18, 2017
    [Inspired by the domestic terrorism and racist massacre and destruction of the Greenwood neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on May 31, 1921, that was one of the worst acts of domestic terrorism in the history of the United States, in which more than 35 square blocks were destroyed by a wave of racial terrorism, fire bombs dropped for airplane, and sniper fire from shot guns of those trying to escape that left hundreds of Black residents dead, and more than 1,000 houses burned and destroyed. Produced by Krystle Warren and Ben Kane (D’Angelo, Emily King, PJ Morton). Recorded, engineered, and mixed by Ben Kane. Written & performed by Krystle Warren. Mixed at The Garden, Brooklyn. Mastered & cut by Alex DeTurk at Masterdisk. Last year in Krystle Warren premiered this song and her other new songs from this album at the Middle of the Map Fest in a packed room at Californos in Westport and later at The Polsky Theatre for the Performing Arts Series of Johnsons County Community College. For this record Krystle decided to play every instrument and vocals & back up vocals, “playing bass, drums, lap steel, piano, guitar, and vocals directly to analog tape. She and Ben Kane recorded in Villetaneuse, France, a small town on the outskirts of Paris in a vintage 70s era studio that offered just the right, rich sound to suggest the musical foundation for the record, and to do justice to the duo’s carefully balanced arrangements.” On the radio show last year Krystle shared inspirations for this record, early gospel recordings, that crossed over into Jazz from Pharoah Sanders, Edwin Hawkins, and The Swan Silvertones. Originally from KC, Krystle learned to play the guitar by listening to Rubber Soul & Revolver from The Beatles. Krystle graduated from Paseo Arts Academy in 2001 and began her musical career in collaborating with area jazz and pop musicians. After living in San Francisco and NYC, Krystle was signed to a French label, Because Music, and moved to Paris to release “Circles” in 2009. Krystle played French and British television programs, including Later with Jools Holland, garnering critical acclaim and traveling all over the world with Rufus Wainwright, Nick Cave, Norah Jones, and Joan As Police Woman. Krystle created, Parlour Door Music, to release “Love Songs: A Time You May Embrace” a recording from a 13-day session in Brooklyn, where she recorded 24 songs live with 28 musicians including her band, The Faculty, alongside choirs, horn and string sections.]

14. Bobby Watson & The I Have a Dream Project – “Check Cashing Day” [feat. Glenn North]
    from: Check Cashing Day / Lafiya Music / Digital – Aug. 28, 2013 / Physical – Nov. 12, 2013
    [From wikipedia.org: “Bobby Watson was born in Lawrence, Kansas, August 23, 1953. he is an American post-bop jazz alto saxophonist, composer, producer, and educator. Watson now has 27 recordings as a leader. He appears on nearly 100 other recordings as either co-leader or in a supporting role. Watson has recorded more than 100 original compositions. Watson grew up in Bonner Springs and Kansas City, Kansas.]

11:22 – Pledge Break #5

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

Today we celebrate the pure idea of community radio, free form radio, radio that tells the story of the people who live here, the artists, the writers, the teachers, the performers.

Together we are building our community.

KKFI’s Mission Statement: KKFI is the Kansas City area’s independent, noncommercial community radio station. We seek to stimulate, educate and entertain our audience, to reflect the diversity of the local and world community, and to provide a channel for individuals and groups, issues and music that have been overlooked, suppressed or under-represented by other media.

KKFI’s Philosophy Statement: KKFI is committed to diversity in programming and discourse and seeks to create a climate of mutual respect and collaboration among volunteers and staff.

11:27– Underwriting

11:28 – Pledge Break #5 Continued

WMM and 90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio offers Live in studio performances from: Howard Iceberg & The Matchsellers and Chad Brothers, Marmoppes, Beth Watts Nelson, ALBER, True Lions, Lonnie Fisher, Mitzi McKee, Calvin Arsenia, Ivory Blue, Stephonne, Julia Othmer, The Swallowtails, Danny Santell, Krystle Warren, MusicbySkippy, Lone Stranger, Just Angel & T.A. Rell,

We make radio shows that cover: The Folly Theater, Extemporaneous Music and Arts Society, Lotus Pool Records, KC Rep, Outer Reaches Fest, Owen/Cox Dance Group, No Divide KC, recordBar, Lawrence Arts Center, Manor Records, The Rino, KC Blues Society, KC Star, Lawrence Music Alliance, MixMaster Music Conference, Kosmic City Records, Midwest Music Foundation, Artists Thrive!, KC Gift, Juneteenth, Power to The People Fest, The Record Machine, Whim Theater, Lemonade Park, Crossroads Music Festival, The Ship, The Black Box Theatre, Amplify Lawrence, Quindaro Ruins, Queer Narratives Fest, Art in the Loop, The film: “I’m So Glad” documenting the KC Gospel Music, KC Fringe Festival, Make Music Day, Boulevardia, Arts in The Park, UMKC Conservatory of Music, The Crossroads Hotel, High Dive Records, Greenwood Social Hall, KC Folk Fest, Manor Fest, Center Cut Records, KKFI Band Auction, Charlotte Street Foundation, Women’s History Month!, University of Missouri at Columbia, Lawrence Public Library, I Heart Local Music, Black History Month, Bach Aria Soloists, Folk Alliance International, Martin Luther King Jr., Tribute to David Bowie, Tribute to Iris DeMent, the music of Palestine and Gaza

11:35 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 2-+ Black Artists from Kansas City

15. Julia Haile – “Keep It Comin’ [feat. Les Izmore]”
    from: EP/ Julia Haile / October 31, 2025
    [New 7-track recording collection of Julia’s most recent songs. “Keep It Comin’” offers a mini reunion with Julia’s former band mate Les Izmore from the KC super-group The Buhs. Julia Haile on vocals; Tim Braun on guitar & bass; Fritz Hutchison on drums; Chase Horseman on keyboards, & synthesizers. // Julia Haile is an Indie Soul singer-songwriter with a voice that balances power and elegance. Her music pairs sweet and stirring vocals with driving guitar and funky beats, taking the listener on a genre-mixing journey of conscious baring offerings. Julia has carved out a unique sound that blends elements of Jazz, R&B, Pop and Rock. Along with musical partner Tim Braun, the pair have crafted songs with rich melodies and authentic storytelling, reflecting themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience. // Drawing inspiration from classic greats like Ella Fitzgerald all the way to the modern sounds of Erykah Badu and H.E.R, Julia continues to create music that marries instinct and raw ability. Her single Up Late is a Disco and Soul soaked party with heavy, dance inspiring guitar. Set Out begs you to leave behind what you know and venture into new depths. Each a view into the singer’s perspective on living life in this evolving day and age. // Haile studied Vocal Performance at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. // She has been a featured artist in bands such The Buhs and Hi-Lux. She has collaborated with musicians around the country and world. // Julia’s work with Hi-Lux included Tim Braun on guitar, Nick Howell on keys, Dan Loftus on bass, (and prior to that Pete Leibert on bass) and Kian Bryne on drums. Hi-Lux was a Modern-Soul band that blends and bends the boundaries between soul, rock n roll, reggae, and funk. This group aims to create music that pays tribute to their myriad of influences (Amy Winehouse, The Meters, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings). but also claims a spotlight of its own in the musical world. Hi-Lux released the singles, “Revolution” and “Get What You Give” on February 28, 2020, through The Record Machine. Hi-Lux released the single. “Don’t Blame Lee” (featuring Lee Scratch Perry) on April 20, 2018. Hi-Lux released the 7” vinyl single, “”Dance With My Baby” b​/​w “Don’t Blame Me” on January 5, 2018 through Sunflower Soul Records. Hi-Lux released their 6-track, self-titled EP, Hi-Lux on January 2, 2018. The band brings together elements of soul, reggae and funk for a unique and dance inspiring sound. More info at: http://www.juliaHaile.com]

16. TyFaison – “The Gospel (Radio Edit)”
    from: UNTIL THE WAR IS WON / Seven Rings Media / September 26, 2025
    [Every song produced by Medici & TyFaizon as The Human. // Every song mixed & mastered by Medici. // Executive produced by Alex Guapo & Medici. // Album art by Trey Hyde & Daniel Ruiz. // TyFaizon aka Mango Marai is a rapper previously in the groups Drop Dead XX & Blackstarkids. He is now 1/2 of production duo The Human. TyFaizon is a multi faceted musical artist, writer, producer, composer, TyFaison is also known as Mango Marai. TyFaison is a rapper previously in the groups Drop Dead XX & Blackstarkids. TyFaison rose to international acclaim with BLACKSTARKIDS. // Mark: When we first heard BLACKSTARKIDS – “Sounds Like Fun!” from their album: SURF on Bedroom Records, released Feb. 28, 2020, we lost our minds. It was one of our most played song on the radio show that year and landed at #2 in WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2020. Blackstarkids were a phenomenon who came out of Raytown Missouri and SURF became the soundtrack for the summer of 2020. // Blackstarkids were a pop/R&B/hip-hop trio that include: TheBabeGabe, Deiondre, and TyFaizon (of the Drop Dead XX collective). The members have known each other since high school meeting at Raytown South High School and formed the band in 2019. The group released its first album, Let’s Play Sports, on Aug. 1, 2019. Blackstarkids then released their second album SURF through their own label Bedroom Records on February 28, 2020. // Blackstarkids caught the attention of The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy and were then signed to The 1975’s management company and UK-based label Dirty Hit Records. They were featured in Clash Magazine. Blackstarkids then released, Surf Basement Demos on Dirty Hit Records on March 5, 2020. On Oct. 29, 2020. // Blackstarkids released Whatever, Man on Dirty Hit Records, their 3rd album on October 22, 2020, followed by Puppies Forever on Oct. 15, 2021, and Cyberkiss on Sept. 23, 2022. Blackstarkids released their last two albums Saturn Dayz on Sept. 20, 2024, and Heaven on Urf on Oct. 25, 2024. // With BLACKSTARKIDS, Ty gained experience, opening on tour with The 1975, beabadoobee, and Glass Animals. // In Sept. 20, 2024. After the break-up of BlackStarKids last year, TyFaison with Medici formed the production company “The Human” and then produced Paris Williams 2024 album A PARIS WILLIAMS JOINT (released Nov. 19, 2024) and then the full length album MANGO MARAI & SATURN STAR, (released in Dec. 2024). Ty then lent his talent to collaborating with BlackStarKids bandmate and close friend TheBabeGabe in launching her solo career. Her debut mixtape HONEY POP, was released on March 5, 2025 and five months later, HONEYPOP: RELOADED was released on Aug. 8, 2025. Both albums were produced by The Human.]

17. Stephonne – “Bloody Mary”
    from: “Bloody Mary” – Single / Glory Blue Music / February 13, 2026
    [Rebellious genre-queer singer-songwriter, producer and multi-disciplinary artist Stephonne has debuted their new single, “Bloody Mary”. The slinky alt-electronic/pop track drips with erotic esotericism. It’s influenced by bands like Portishead, Garbage, She Wants Revenge, and Erotica – Bedtime Stories era Madonna. Stephonne writes, “I was playing Angel in RENT and heard about D’Angelo’s passing right before Halloween. The cast finally had a break from back-to-back shows and my sadness drove me to create that night and remember the power of Voodoo. 25 years later and that album’s energy is still just as potent. I turned on the Devil’s Pie documentary and this track fell from the heavens. “Bloody Mary” was also birthed from my love of witches, New Orleans, Anne Rice’s vampires, and 90s alternative music and nostalgia. I’m telling a story in a new way where I don’t have to choose between being gothic, nerdy, or provocative. I get to be all of those things and more on this record. There’s some very inspiring art coming from artists like JMSN, Slayyyter, and Charli xcx that gives me hope we are finally ready to let our freak flags fly at full mast again. Thank God!” // “Bloody Mary” plays like a Tarantino directed erotic thriller that injects dance floor fever and grunge edge. The clever wordplay and melody we’ve come to expect from Stephonne don’t take a backseat to theatricality here. All three drive Stephonne’s purpose-driven production and vocal power to new heights. Slick, cinematic, dangerous and glossy, this track a must-listen. // Stephonne writes, “Electronic music has helped me take up more space as an artist. I’ll always pledge allegiance to rock music, but I’ve loved experimenting more, letting go, and trusting the music as I hear it first. Listeners are getting more of me in every aspect of my releases and that feels good. I’m understanding my assignment more clearly, sonically, and I’m excited to showcase that through new visuals and LIVE!” // Lyrical Odyssey writes: “Stephonne is reimagining what it means to be a Black musician in Kansas City, disrupting outdated narratives with music that celebrates fluidity, theatricality, and freedom. Their art is multidimensional, relentless, and ambitious, drawing inspiration from other pockets of pop music.” // Stephonne describes himself as the lovechild of Prince & Billie Holiday. He grew up in KCK and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music from Benedictine College, and Masters in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. Stephonne is a 2023 winner of the Charlotte Street Generative Performing Arts Fellows. // Stephonne works to synthesize music, written/spoken word, performance and visual art/media into an inimitable art. They share their struggles, triumphs, and journey to self-love through multidisciplinary performance and have sent audiences on visceral and experiential journeys through a multitude of music and video releases. // Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist, activist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, serving as a board member of KC Folk Fest, organizing tribute shows, playing: music festivals, Charlotte Street Foundation, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, Crossroads Music Fest, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, and West 18th Street Fashion Show. Stephonne released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022. Stephonne released the single “I” on August 21, 2024. Stephonne released the single “I think it’s Gonna Be Alright” on April 2025. Stephonne released the single, Forgive Me, Father (Sinead O’Connor) on May 21, 2025. Stephonne released the single, “Worship at The Chappell” co-written with Shawn M. Stewart and produced with Patrick Meagher, the song is a declaration of power, pleasure, and pride—a sonic celebration of being fully and freely oneself. “Worship at the Chappell” is a bold, genre-bending anthem from Kansas City artist Stephonne—an electrifying fusion of disco, pop, and gospel spirit. Inspired by fellow Missouri native Chappell Roan, the track transforms the dance floor into a sanctuary for queer joy, spiritual liberation, and unapologetic self-love. With soaring vocals, provocative lyrics, and infectious grooves, Stephonne delivers a soulful sermon for the marginalized. // Stephonne was on WMM on Sept 10, 2025 before his run in RENT playing Angel for Music Theatre Heritage. More info at: http://www.stephonne.com]

18. Cuee – “Proud Boi”
    from: “Proud Boi” – Single / Cuee / June 1, 2023
    [Cuee released the (3-song Single) “With Love” including the track “See You Tonight” on February 14, 2023. Before that Cuee released the (3-song Single) “Coming Out” on June 24, 2022. // Lawrence/Chicago based hip-hop artist Cuee is a rapper with a Master’s Degree. Cuee received his Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Kansas. Cuee is also a graduate of Artist Inc. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Cuee has wowed audiences with exciting live performances. And since 2017 Cue has released several critically acclaimed albums, an EP, multiple singles. We last talked with Cuee on March 3, 2021 and on May 5, 2021 and before that, on August 12, 2020, when he released the single “Who’s Back.” and before that on May 29, 2019. Cuee released the single: “Ain’t Goin Backon May 7, 2021, “Gravity (Feat: Lindsey Alderman)” on April 29, 2021 and part of GOSPEL the album. In 2020 Cuee’ track, “Shook” landed on an official Spotify playlist dedicated to transgender, non-binary and gender-fluid musicians across the globe including Kim Petras and Lex Allen. Spotify sent out a note said, “Hey Cuee you hit a high note this month.” Cuee said he didn’t even know what that meant, and he looked up to discover he had over 24,000 listener during the month of June on Spotify. I was trying to figure out what happened. I did a little research, I logged onto my instagram account, I was starting to get a flood of followers. I was just tracing it back and I landed on a Spotify playlist, it was an editorial playlist so he couldn’t find out who put him on there. “Someone found me.” Cuee made three trips home to Chicago to record the record. For the new album GOSPEL Cuee explained that this term can have biblical connections but it also means ‘the truth.” The video for “Ain’t Going Back” takes place in a church, and is a declaration of freedom, and identity, while also paying respect. Cuee talked us about how the track was created in the studio and translating the song into a video that was shot in a church. Last time we talked with Cuee he shared his thoughts about ‘”Queerness in a church,” Cuee said, “you know, is very…different, I mean I wanted to bring that into that space, and freedom into that space, allow that space to be seen and heard by other people who traditionally wont take up that space.” Along with getting his Master’s Degree, Cuee has released around 30 different musical tracks, legally changed his name, and has transitioned physically and vocally. The song “Ain’t Going Back” features Cuee’s friend Joel Leoj who is originally from Florida, but after moving to Chicago, became friends with Cuee in school, and recently moved to Lawrence to make music and collaborate on recordings with Cuee. Cuee explained that they have known each other since high school, that they “started a Hip Hop culture club in our high school, to bring music, kinda having a place to chill after school, write music together as a community. That’s how we started.” “I moved out here to Kansas, to go to school, he stayed back in Miami, and then we kind of connected back, maybe about two years ago, and hit it off really strong. We decided we wanted to pursue this music thing together. We decided let’s just do this. So he said he was going to move to Lawrence. I didn’t believe him at first, until he showed up on my doorstep, and I was like, Wow, you are here, let’s do this.” Joel Leoj released the album, JOEY IN WONDERLAND on January 31, 2021. Cuee is a featured guest emcee on the tracks “Eden” and “No Debate.” More info at: http://www.officialcuee.com]

11:46 – Pledge Break #6

WMM Winter Fund Drive Team: Mara Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, & Sandra Draper

On February 28, 1988 folks from the Kansas City Community launched onto our airwaves KKFI 90.1 FM with hopes that through community radio we could help build our community, make it a better place, for our future, for those that follow and take our place. Today 37 years later 90.1 FM offers 100 radio programs, and 85 of these programs are locally produced, locally sourced, locally researched, locally presented by passionate and dedicated members of our Kansas City Community. Bucking all trends of commercially owned media, at KKFI, Diversity and Inclusion are part of our mission. Telling the stories of people who are under-represented is our mission. In a world where national corporations have purchased almost all local TV & Radio stations, KKFI has fought hard to remain free, locally loyal, a voice for those not repented in the corporately owned & cloned stations, or the rightwing talk, church owned christian stations, that proliferate the frequencies, through all of this, KKFI has worked hard to keep a little slice of the public airwaves alive for all of the people in our collective communities.

With shows locally produced about Native People, LGBTQIA People, Women, Working People, Black People, Ecological People, People in Prison, Stories of Middle Eastern and Latinx, KC Tenants, Understanding Israel Palestine, Economics For The People, Local elected leaders, Creatives, Artists, Poets, Musicians, Teachers, Theatre People, Dancers, Writers, Environmentalists, Historians, Activists, Survivors, KKFI’s News, Public Affairs, Arts & Culture programs go the distance with every show to represent and report of what is going on in our world here in Kansas City and the surrounding metro in our 80 mile radius of signal, and even farther on line digitally.

KKFI offers music shows produced by steadfast representatives from the diverse Music Community of Kansas City: Jazz shows 7 days a week hosted by professional Jazz Musicians; Reggae Shows throughout the week hosted by Reggae Royalty, Folk and Americana shows all week long hosted by folk musicians with decades of performances; Blues shows hosted by women & men who dearly love and live in KC’s enduring and nationally recognized blues community. Music shows that celebrate Independent, Local, Alternative, Soul and R&B, Punk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Vinyl Only, Glam Rock, New Wave, Rockabilly, Tejano, Classical, K-Pop, LIVE!, Gospel, New!, World, Experimental, Old-Timey, House, Country, Heavy Metal, and so much more. Every show is produced, engineered and hosted by a real live person on the other end of the telephone.

90.1 FM is a miracle in broadcasting because hundreds of volunteers and active members keep it alive with their passion for the possibilities of radio, our most accessible media, available online, but also over the airwaves from our 100,000 watt tower that we own as a station and non-profit membership based organization.

Please help us survive. Reports show that 1 out of 10 listeners actually give back and donate in support of community radio. With your donation, YOU are the funder of something 100 other people will enjoy (for free) because of your donation. You are helping to build our community. – Please donate. Thank you!

For Mará Williams, D. Rashaan Gilmore, and Sandra Draper, I’m Mark Manning. Thanks for listening!

11:55 – WMM Celebrates Black History with 20+ Black Artists from Kansas City

19. FlareThaRebel – “Playground (feat. The Belief Cycle & Leigh Adams)”
    from: Summer You Summer Me/ Shafer / October21, 2022
    [On October 8, 2025 FlafeYhaRebel released “Mixology” from his upcoming full length album DEAR CITY to be released in 2026. Career and love brought hip-hop MC Flare Tha Rebel™ back to his hometown of Kansas City, MO, which sparked a creative renaissance. As The Pitch noted, “As a member of hip-hop collective Anti-Crew, Flare Tha Rebel made quite an impact on the Kansas City hip-hop scene. After making the leap from KC to Chicago in the late ’00s, he’s now back…” His homecoming has proved fruitful – his track “Playground” was voted the Number 1 Song of 2022 by listeners of 90.9 FM The Bridge. Throughout his career, Flare has shared stages with heavyweights including Chance The Rapper, RZA of Wu-Tang Clan, Mac Lethal, Nappy Roots, and CES Cru. His acclaimed EP, “Summer You, Summer Me”, followed by his feature on the Kemet Coleman song “Android”. // Flare Tha Rebel aka Jeff Shafer is Executive Director for City Year Kansas City, an educational-equity nonprofit that places mentors /t utors in schools to keep kids on track to graduate. This job brought Jeff back to KC, where he became Executive Director. ]

[FlareThaRebel hosts Music Maker Mondays presented by Manor Records Foundation, & Brewery Emperial on the First Monday of every month, 5:00pm-7:00pm at Brewery Emperial, 1829 Oak St. KCMO, to provide local music makers of all types – any genre, a laid-back, non-gig environment to connect, organize, and build community thru a new monthly happy hour the first Monday each month.]

20. Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now”
    from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]

NEXT WEEK, on March 4 members of the band She Said join us LIVE in our studio.. Plus we’ll play new music from: Lava Dreams, Sky Smeed, Say That Again, and more! Mara Williams will be back to help me co-host along with Betse Ellis and Joelle St. Pierre.

You can find our playlists at:
http://www.wednesdaymiddaymedley.org & http://www.kkfi.org
http://www.facebook.com/WednesdayMidDayMedleyon90.1FM
http://www.instagram.wednesday_midday_medley

Thank you to KKFI Staff: Executive Director – Bess Wallerstein Huff, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers, Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, and Shaina Littler – Office Manager Book Keeper

This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. It is a collective spirit of hundreds of people, setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the goal of keeping our airwaves, non-commercial, and open! Thank you to programmers who create content for over 85 locally produced radio shows & volunteers who made extra effort to keep our station alive.

Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information.
Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org

Wednesday MidDay Medley in on the web:
http://www.kkfi.org,
http://www.WednesdayMidDayMedley.org,
http://www.facebook.com/WednesdayMidDayMedleyon90.1FM

Show #1136