Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, July 5, 2023
WMM Shines a Light on the 19th Annual KC Fringe Festival Audrey Crabtree + Voler Flight Academy + Beth Byrd + New & MidCoastal Releases
Mark plays more New & MidCoastal Releases from: Monta, Teri Quinn, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream, Claire Adams, Semper Viridis, Christena Graves, Janelle Monae, The Philistines, Caley Rose, Various Blonde, Quite Frankly, Cloud Nothings, Yaeji, Feeble Little Horse, and Sparks.
At 10:30, KC Fringe Executive Director – Audrey Crabtree joins us to share details about the 19th annual KC Fringe Festival, July 14-30, 2023, that will showcase 54 productions, 6 films, and 2 galleries featuring 35 visual artists featuring performers and creators from Kansas City, and across the country, and around the world. KC Fringe Festival will present a special preview offering a free sneak peek of family-friendly performances showcasing dance, live music, musicals, comedy, dance, and fun surprises! This one-night only event happens On Thursday, July 6 at 6:00 PM at the The Kansas City Public Library Plaza Branch – Truman Forum Auditorium. 4801 Main St, KCMO. More info at http://www.kcfringe.org
At 11:00 members of Voler Aerial Academy join us to talk about their KC Fringe production, DISCO DAISY SAVES THE CITY FROM ROCK & ROLL, July 21 – 29 at Union Station City Stage. Playwrights Chip Ashby and Stephanie Iszory share details about how Disco Daisy and her Defenders save the soul of the city from the dastardly Dr. Rock & Roll and his evil henchmen, Hardcore, Punk, and Heavy Metal. Disco Daisy is an aerial arts extravaganza, featuring several aerial elements including silks, lyra, trapeze, chandelier, and rope. It is a family-friendly romp set to favorite music from across the decades. More info at: http://www.thievesofflight.com
At 11:30 AM Mark welcomes Beth Byrd-Lonski of Byrd Productions Physical Theater who shares details abut her KC Fringe show, 2 MIMES IN A POD – Students of Marcel Marceau, featuring Beth Byrd-Lonski and Dean Hatton on July 21 – July 29, at The Center for Spiritual Living. Theses Two students of world re-known Mime artist Marcel Marceau, like to get together every few years and show their latest Mime pieces. This is one of those years. Beth and Dean will be bringing their latest, silliest, serious, most favorite numbers to the stage. Direction Assistance from Gregg Goldston. Light and Sound design by Roger Stoddard. More Info at: http://www.byrdproductions.org
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
WMM’s 1000th Show!
WMM Celebrates 1000 Shows with Live Performances from: Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Calvin Arsenia, IVORY BLUE, Stephonne and Poet Jen Harris
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Motion Picture Soundtrack to All That Jazz / Universal / Dec. 20, 1979 [WMM’s theme]
Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens – “Inaugural Pop Music For Jane Margaret Byrne” from: The Avalanche: Outtakes And Extras From The Illinois Album / Asthmatic Kitty / July 11, 2006 [A press release on the Asthmatic Kitty website reported that the Illinois album was supposed to be a double record (with somewhere near 50 songs), but the idea was eventually scrapped. After the success of the album, Stevens returned to his analog 8-track recorder in late 2005 and began the process of finishing 21 of the previously abandoned songs, which would eventually become The Avalanche. Stevens has stated during interviews that although he doesn’t like The Avalanche as much as Illinois, he felt it was important to release the songs in light of the success of his most recent album. He has also said that he decided to release the album in order to buy time until his next “The 50 States” project,” release.]
Thanks for tuning into Wednesday MidDay Medley. I’m Mark Manning. Today we celebrate 1000 Shows! 1000 weeks of radio broadcasts, with LIVE performances in our 90.1 FM Studios from: Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Calvin Arsenia, IVORY BLUE, Stephonne, and Poet Jen Harris.
Today’s show is a celebration of 1000 show, That’s 1000 consecutive weeks of radio broadcasts (and I’ve only missed one show), 2000 hours of radio, 30,000 hours of preparation, over 2900 Interviews, 2500 guests, and over 20,000 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.
We’ve happily presented new formats in radio, with our popular, “A Story In A Song” series, and our special shows featuring: Apocalypse Meow, The Crossroads Music Fest, Folk Alliance International, The Outer Reaches Festival, Manor Fest, Innovation Fest, Boulevardia. KC Fringe Festival, Owen Cox Dance Group, Bach Aria Soloists, KC Pride Fest, and our annual tribute shows to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., David Bowie, Iris Dement, Pioneers of Punk, Visual Art, The Spoken Word, Gay Pride, Civil Rights, Black Lives Matter and our inteviews with Tommy Ramone, Iris Dement, Laurie Anderson, Lily Tomlin. Plus, our annual 4-week special: The 120 Best Recordings of the Year.
To say I’ve been inspired by the KC music community, is an understatement. The KC music community is fueled by a collaborative and generous heart that is beating in so many of the artists I’ve met while doing this show.
I am inspired by the women who created radio on KKFI 90.1 FM long before me: my friend April L Fletcher who plays bass professionally in Los Angeles, and hosted Mix Well Before Serving on 90.1 FM in 1988 on KKFI’s first year of broadcast, and this year returned after 35 years to host and produce WMM.
And my friend Anne Winter, who left us in 2009, and reminded us how we’re all connected. At Anne’s funeral I realized that I was 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, organzing an event, doing a radio show. We were all connected because she had loved us all, and supported us, and some of us made a pact, to pick up just a little bit, of the work that Anne did, and if we all did a little, we could continue her work, to help build our community. That is how I keep Anne alive in my heart. Doing her work.
And through collaboration, and shining a light, like Abigail 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. Abigail was a guest several times on the show. She was always radiant. She performed in our “A Story In A Song” LIVE show at recordBar. She told me early on, “We like to think of Wednesday MidDay Medley as OUR show.” After I thought about what she said, I realized what one could really do with a radio show, if you check your own ego, and realize you are part of something bigger. Abigail taught me to dive deep into the incredible musical world of our area, and to never be deterred by the bullshit artists, and the naysayers, and the hypocrites, and the people who sit around judging and doing nothing, while others continue the work of building our community for a better place for those who follow.
I’ve always known that a radio show at KKFI is not mine. It belongs to the community. And every radio show at KKFI is only as healthy as the radio station itself, and like a cooperative grocery store, if you want a discount on your groceries, you got to stock the shelves. At KKFI, our station exists because of those generous programmers who volunteer for the station in addition to doing a radio show. It is the most selfless work you’ll ever do, and you’ll have to always remind yourself that it is for the mission, it is for the community, it is to keep the airwaves free.
Like water off a duck’s back, let it slide away. Let the people who project their own fears on to you, slide away. Let the folks that’ve stopped dreaming, that are left unimaginative, the selfish people, let their fear slide away. You do not need to absorb their darkness. Just remember how much you love music, and how much you love the music community, and how much you love talking with other people about music, and how much you love collaborations and learning from others. Love is always going to be stronger than the fear that “lost souls” will try to throw at you. And you’ll let it slide away, like water off a duck’s back.
I’m inspired by the diverse , intelligent, motivated, listeners, looking for place on the dial, where they can connect to the stories and music and voice of our community. 90.1 FM KKFI. And I want to especially thank Marion Merritt of Records With Merritt, for her musically encyclopedic brain, and all of the great shows she produces, over the last 19 years, and all the support she and Ann Stewart offer at every fund drive. And I want to thank my “Radio Wife” Maria Vasquez Boyd, Host and Producer of ARTSPEAK RADIO and Nico Gray, Host and Producer of Radio Nicopisa. Two shows that were first developed on Wednesday MidDay Medley and grew, organically, over time to become their own great radio shows, serving KKFI’s Mission.
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. We celebrate 1000 weeks of WMMy, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Calvin Arsenia
10:05
Calvin Arsenia – “The Painted Ladies of San Francisco” (LIVE) (4:00) also available on: Paradise / Calvin Arsenia / June 23, 2023
10:09 – Calvin Arsenia Interview
Calvin Arsenia is one of our most frequent guests, who has been a guest on our show, 22-times, since he first appeared on WMM on July 25, 2012. // Tim Finn Music Writer for KC Magazine has 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.’ // Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey began when he moved to Olathe, Kansas, teaching himself the guitar, piano, banjo. He learned his signature instrument, the harp, at the age of 20. His passion for stretching the boundaries of musical expression saw him transform a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Festival // In 2012, Calvin traveled to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Theatre Festival, and found himself accepting a role as musical liaison with an Edinburgh Church that became a life-changing musical mission, where Calvin found himself. // Two years later Calvin returned to KC reborn with a new confidence, a new sense of self. At 24 he released his 2nd EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. On February 14, 2017 Calvin released his critically acclaimed full length debut, Catastrophe, with a live show at recordBar in November 2016 that involved a company of 50 people, dancers, stilt walkers. // After signing to Center Cut Records, Calvin released the albums: Cantaloupe in 2018, with a sold out gigantic spectacle at The Gem Theatre on Saturday, September 15, 2018 that involved a huge band, dancers, and at the end of the show Calvin led the entire audience out of the theatre and down the street on a street parade that ended on the steps to the Mutual Musicians Foundation, where the music continued. // Calvin then released, L.A. Sessions in 2019, and the EP, HONEY DEW, and the EP, Goddess with Quixotic, 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. // During the pandemic Calvin became 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 now 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. // Calvin was voted KC’s Best Musician in The Pitch 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. // He has been featured in Billboard, NPR.org. NEWNOWNEXT, Pride.com, and GRAMMY.com. Charlotte Street Foundation awarded Calvin the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards along with The Black Creatures. // Calvin Arsenia is a multi-instrumentalist, a renaissance man, a model. and actor, a designer, an artist, a writer, a collaborator, a teacher, a friend, an inspiration… Calvin has shared his own journey openly with his fans. His journey to find himself, his journey as a working artist and musician, his journey to find love, his coming out as a Queer Artist, his coming-out as Black man, his journey to understand his spirituality and the redefinition of beliefs.
On June 23, 2023 Calvin released his newest album PARADISE with two gigantic shows July 23 and July 24 at The Emerald with a team of over 50 people making the show happen.
Calvin Arsenia thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.
19:18
Calvin Arsenia – “You Are Not Your Crime” (LIVE) also available on: Paradise / Calvin Arsenia / June 23, 2023
10:22
The Whittlers – “Touch The Artist” rom: Touch The Artist / Independent / Summer 2002 [One of four full length releases from Tom Livesay and Phil Wade released between 2000 – 2004. The album was made up entirely of covers with the exception of this song where Phil and Tom edited together excerpts of records from their collections. Ike Sheldon played piano and keyboards on several tracks.]
10:23 – Underwriting
10:24 – Intro
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, the lovers. Today we celebrate 1000 weeks of Wednesday MidDay Medley, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Poet Jen Harris
10:24
Jen Harris – “Regards” (LIVE)
10:28 – Interview with Jen Harris
Poet Jen Harris (she/her) is a writer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Jen has been featured on NPR, Netflix Queer Eye, Creative Mornings, TEDx, and many more, Harris is the author of 3 books of poetry and the recipient of numerous accolades. A sought-after performance artist, Jen has collaborated with Owen Cox Dance Group, Gilda’s Club, Big Bang Buffet, InterUrban ArtHouse, Artist Inc, KC Artist Coalition, Mid America Ats Alliance, Shelf Life, Eddie Moore Trio, Midwest Music Foundation and Apocalypse Meow. Jen Harris is the founder and host of The Writing Workshop KC, whose mission is to nurture creative curiosity and inspire confidence within prompt-based writing workshops. She hosts weekly classes and offers creative coaching to private clients. Additionally, Jen is one half of the artist-to-artist indie podcast Confessing Animals. Her firstborn community love child, Kansas City Poetry Slam, sold out monthly for seven years.
Jen Harris, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.
10:37
Jen Harris – “Untitled” (LIVE)
10:41
Mexican Institute of Sound – “My buddy @julps” from: Politic0 / Nacionao Records / July 17, 2017
10:42 – Intro
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, the lovers. Today we celebrate 1000 weeks of Wednesday MidDay Medley, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Madisen Ward
10:42
9. Madisen Ward – “Mr. James” (LIVE)
10:46 – Interview with Madisen Ward
Madisen Ward was born in Oklahoma, and grew up in the outskirts of Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 2007. Madisen’s journey to become a musician, was “melodically passed down” through the songs of his mother, where Madisen grew up watching his mom perform at local coffee shops. Eventually he began to learn to play the guitar, and poured his talent for writing into the music to create original songs. From there Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear were born. They started playing in coffee houses and then quickly garnered international acclaim, and new fans from all over the world. They opened for BB King at The Midland. They signed with Glassnote Records in 2014 and recorded their debut full length album in Nashville with acclaimed producer Jim Abiss. They performed their debut single “Silent Movies” on The Late Show with David Letterman, they’ve toured across the United States, and Europe, more than once. They were featured on CBS Sunday Morning, NBC’s The Today Show, and ““Later With Jools Holland” and played Bonnaroo, Pilgramage, and the Newport Folk Festival, and the Ryman Theatre, in Nashville. Madisen Ward is now performing as his first ever solo project, still crafting his own personal brand of Americana music. The same sound which launched the careers of the Family Folk Duo Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear.
We first played your music on this radio show in early May of 2013 after our mutual friend Joel Nanos of Element Recording sent me a copy of your independent EP, “We Burned The Cane Field.”
Madisen Ward is playing the Fortune Fest in Columbia, Missouri on Saturday, August 12. And Madisen Ward plays The Ship on Thursday, October 12.
Madisen Ward thanks for being with us on WMM.
10:56
10. Madisen Ward – “I’ll Never Dance With You Again” (Live)
Be / Non – “Journey” from: A Mountain of Yeses / Unipegadong / 2009
11:00 – Station ID
Stephin Merritt (far left) has led The Magnetic Fields since the early 1990s, with a songwriting style that ranges from sincere to bitter to ironic.
The Magnetic Fields – BBC Radiophonic Workshop from: Holiday / Merge / 1994
11:01 – Intro
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, the lovers. Today we celebrate 1000 weeks of Wednesday MidDay Medley, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Ivory Blue
11:02
13. IVORY BLUE – “Elite Dreamland” (Live)
11:06 – Interview with IVORY BLUE
IVORY BLUE‘s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022.
Ivory Blue thanks for being with us on WMM.
11:15
IVORY BLUE – “Family Table” (Live)
11:19
Wagon Christ – “Rennie Codgers” from: Tomorrow / Ninja Records / March 29, 2011
11:19 – Underwriting
11:20 – Intro
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, the lovers. Today we celebrate 1000 weeks of Wednesday MidDay Medley, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Stephonne
11:21
Stephonne – with: Zachary Arias “The King’s Gambit” (Live)
11:25 – Interview with Stephonne
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. Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, organizing Tribute Shows, working as a Resident Artist at Charlottee Street studios, playing Music Festivals, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. Stephonne released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022 it was in the TOP TEN of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. Stephonne was a featured performer at the 23rd Annual West 18th Street Fashion Show on Friday, June 2, 2023.
Stephonne thanks for being with us on WMM.
11:34
Stephonne – with: Zachary Arias “Highlander (There Can Be Only One)” (Live)
11:38
Monta At Odds – “Little Chance is Left” from: Gringo / Montamusic / June 11, 2008
11:38 – Intro
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, the lovers. Today we celebrate 1000 weeks of Wednesday MidDay Medley, the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
Live in our 90.1 FM Studios…This is Mikal Shapiro
11:39
Mikal Shapiro – “Demolitions” (Live)
11:42 – Interview with Mikal Shapiro
Mikal Shapiro is founder of State City Films creating documentary and experimental filmmaking practices. Mikal studied Film History, Film, & Writing at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. She received her MFA in Film/Video/New Media/ Animation from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2012. Artist, filmmaker, puppeteer, ring-leader, Mikal Shapiro is a KC songwriter whose musical influences span popular songs, psych rock, lounge, classic country and old time spirituals. She has toured extensively across the United States and has recorded 5 critically acclaimed albums Mikal also performs with Shapiro Brothers, and Monta. Mikal was the original co-host and co-creator of River Trade Radio. She is also the creator and co-host of Siren Song, Saturdays at 11:00 AM on 90.1 FM KKFI KC Community Radio. Mikal also serves as Coordinator of Kansas City Folk Fest.
Mikal Shapiro thanks for being with us on WMM.
For Wednesday MidDay Medley, I’m Mark Manning, Thanks for listening
Once Again… Mikal Shapiro
11:51
Mikal Shapiro – “Out Of This World” (Live)
11:55
Les Petits Minous – “À la claire fontaine” from: À la claire fontaine – Single / Musicreche / September 25, 2008
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Special Thanks on our 1000th Show go to: Marion Merritt, Maria Vasquez Boyd, Nico Gray, Joelle St, Pierre, Kelly Dougherty, Darryl Oliver, Chad Brothers, Mary L. Bass, Aurora Nicol, Necia Gamby, Calvin Arsenia, Jen Harris, Madison Ward, Ivory Blue, Klaartje Van Lue, Stephonne Singleton, Zachary Arias, Chris Haghirian, James Carter, Barry Lee, John Todd, Diana Griffin Ennis, and all of our listeners and friends!!!
Next week on WMM on July 5, 2023, we shine a light on the 19th annual KC Fringe Festival, July 14-30, 2023, with 52 productions, 38 visual artists, unjuried, uncensored performing, film and visual arts featuring performers and creators from Kansas City, national and international artists. At 10:30 Mark talks with KC Fringe Executives Director – Audrey Crabtree. At 11:00 members of Voler Aerial Academy join us to talk about their KC Fringe production DISCO DAISY SAVES THE CITY FROM ROCK & ROLL, July 21 – 29 at Union Station City Stage. At 11:30 AM Mark welcomes Beth Byrd who shares details abut her KC Fringe show, 2 MIMES IN A POD – Students of Marcel Marceau, July 21 – July 29, at The Center for Spiritual Living. More info at http://www.kcfringe.org
Big THANK YOU to all of our wonderful listeners and friends who generously and thoughtfully donated to support KKFI 90.1 FM – Kansas City Community Radio!!! During our Wednesday MidDay Medley Spring Fund Drive shows on June 7 and June 14, and through social media, we raised $4742.00 from 59 individual Donors! Thank you to our diverse and beautiful listeners who generously donated to allow us to continue our great mission here at 90.1 FM KKFI.
THANK YOU to my incredible Fund co-hosts: Betse Ellis & Marion Merritt & Nico Gray, and our wonderful staff KKFI Director of Development and Communications, J Kelly Dougherty, Vounteer Coordinator Darryl Oliver, and Chief Operator Chad Brothers. And to all of our fantastic phone volunteers for donating your time to take our donations over the phones.
This radio station is not about the individual hosts of each individual radio show. Instead it is about a collective spirit of hundreds of wonderful people, unselfishly setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the gigantic goal of keeping our airwaves free, non-commercial, and open to all! Congratulations and thank you to all programmers & volunteers who went the 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 Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 28, 2023
WMM’s 1000th Show!
WMM Celebrates 1000 Shows with Live Performances from: Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Calvin Arsenia, IVORY BLUE, Stephonne and Poet Jen Harris
Madisen Ward was born in Oklahoma, and grew up in the outskirts of Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 2007. Madisen’s journey to become a musician, was “melodically passed down” through the songs of his mother, where Madisen grew up watching his mom perform at local coffee shops. Eventually he began to learn to play the guitar, and poured his talent for writing into the music to create original songs. Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear have garnered international acclaim, and new fans from all over the world. They signed with Glassnote Records and recorded their debut full length album in Nashville with acclaimed producer Jim Abiss. They performed their debut single “Silent Movies” on The Late Show with David Letterman, they’ve toured across the United States, and Europe, more than once. They were featured on CBS Sunday Morning, NBC’s The Today Show, and “Later With Jools Holland and played Bonnaroo, Pilgramage, and the Newport Folk Festival, and the Ryman Theatre, in Nashville.
Mikal Shapiro is founder of State City Films creating documentary and experimental filmmaking practices. Mikal studied Film History, Film, & Writing at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. She received her MFA in Film/Video/New Media/ Animation from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2012. Artist, filmmaker, puppeteer, ring-leader, Mikal Shapiro is a KC songwriter whose musical influences span popular songs, psych rock, lounge, classic country and old time spirituals. She has toured extensively across the United States and has recorded 5 critically acclaimed albums Mikal also performs with Shapiro Brothers, and Monta At Odds. Mikal is also the creator and co-host and producer of Siren Song, Saturdays at 11:00 AM on 90.1 FM KKFI KC Community Radio.
Calvin Arsenia one of our most frequent guests, who first appeared on WMM on July 25, 2012. KC Magazine has 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.’ Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey began when he moved to Olathe, Kansas, teaching himself the guitar, piano, banjo. He learned his signature instrument, the harp, at the age of 20. In 2012, Calvin traveled to Edinburgh, Scotland and found himself accepting a role as musical liaison with an Edinburgh Church that became a life-changing musical mission. Two years later Calvin returned to KC reborn with a new confidence, a new sense of self. Two years and 300 shows later, Calvin returned to KC reborn as a humanistic songwriter / performerCalvin was voted KC’s Best Musician in The Pitch 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. He has been featured in Billboard, NPR.org. Charlotte Street Foundation awarded Calvin the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards along with The Black Creatures.
IVORY BLUE‘s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022.
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. Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, organizing Tribute Shows, working as a Resident Artist at Charlottee Street studios, playing Music Festivals, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. Stephonne released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022 it was in the TOP TEN of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. Stephonne was a featured performer at the 23rd Annual West 18th Street Fashion Show on Friday, June 2, 2023.
Poet Jen Harris (she/her) is a writer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Jen has been featured on NPR, Netflix Queer Eye, Creative Mornings, TEDx, and many more, Harris is the author of 3 books of poetry and the recipient of numerous accolades. A sought-after performance artist, Harris is the founder and host of The Writing Workshop KC, whose mission is to nurture creative curiosity and inspire confidence within prompt-based writing workshops. She hosts weekly classes and offers creative coaching to private clients. Additionally, Jen is one half of the artist-to-artist indie podcast Confessing Animals. Her firstborn community love child, Kansas City Poetry Slam, sold out monthly for seven years.
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Make Music Day with Jass + Calvin Arsenia + Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Portrait of Kansas City performance singer, Julia Haile. Mandatory credit of styling by Natalie Norman. photo by JIM BARCUS
2. Julia Haile – “Up Late” from: “Up Late” – Single / Julia Haile / June 16, 2023 [One of four new singles released by Julia Haile in the last 9 months. Julia released “Ave 4” on June 16, 2023. Julia released “Heavy Rotation” and “Set Out” on September 30, 2022. Julia Haile is a singer and songwriter based in Kansas City, MO. Her natural talent and musical education have fueled a career of exciting performances and beautiful music. From leading Neo-Soul band Hi-Lux and international collaborations to solo works, Julia’s goal is create meaningful musical experiences for all. 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 created music that pays tribute to their myriad of influences (Amy Winehouse, The Meters, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings). 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. All 6 songs had previously been released as singles. More info at: http://www.juliaHaile.com]
The Blast Monkees — “Mr. Nice Guy” from: Mr. Nice Guy” – Single / The Blast Monkees / May 22, 2023 [Recording Engineer: Justin Mantooth of Westend Recording Studio. The Blast Monkeys are two dudes making music out of Tonganoxie, Kansas. Formed in 2017 by high school best friends, Scott Vick & Kyle Chambers, they plan to make music their career by any means. Their songs fuse high-energy drums and catchy guitar riffs with goofy jokes and a “passionate” stage presence that is sure to win over any crowd. For more info: http://www.theblastmokeys.com. and http://www.theblactmonkees.bandcamp.com
The Blast Monkeys Discography
Summer Camp (9-track Album) / July 18. 2022 “Capo 2.0” (Single) / February 16, 2022 Big Things, Small Places (4-track EP) / August 21, 2021 Washed Out (3-track EP) / December 16, 2019 Moon Juice (5-track EP) / March 25, 2019.
Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear – “Guts n Glory” from: Started With a Family / Starts With Music, LLC / September 6. 2019 [Produced with Grammy-winner Nathan Chapman at iconic Blackbird Studios in Nashville. Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear have garnered international acclaim, and new fans from all over the world. They signed with Glassnote Records and recorded their debut full length album in Nashville with acclaimed producer Jim Abiss. They performed their debut single “Silent Movies” on The Late Show with David Letterman, they’ve toured across the United States, and Europe, more than once. They were featured on CBS Sunday Morning, NBC’s The Today Show, and “Later With Jools Holland and played Bonnaroo, Pilgramage, and the Newport Folk Festival, and the Ryman Theatre, in Nashville. Ruth Ward has continually performed throughout her life, mostly in coffee shops and open mics, for over 30 years, even recording a solo record. In the midst of this she got married and became a mom, and was busy raising a family. Madisen Ward was born in Oklahoma, and grew up in the outskirts of Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 2007. Madisen’s journey to become a musician, was “melodically passed down” through the songs of his mother, where Madisen grew up watching his mom perform at local coffee shops. Eventually he began to learn to play the guitar, and poured his talent for writing into the music to create original songs. They began playing Madisen’s original songs along with the occassional cover of a classic track, reinterpreted in their own incredibly beautiful performace of two voices and two guitars in harmony and orchestration. Their debut album, The Skeleton Crew, was released May 9, 2015 and was our most played record that year and was #1 on WMM’s The 115 Best Recordings of 2015. Their follow up EP Radio Winners was released July 27, 2018 and recieved critical acclaim.] [Madisen Ward and The Mama Bear played Crossroads Music Fest, Sat., Sept 7,, Crossroads KC, with Shy Boys, Split Lip Rayfield, The Freedom Affair.]
[Madisen Ward plays The Crossroads Hotel rooftop concert series at The Percheron TONIGHT June 21, doors open at 7:00 PM]
Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark – “Picture of Solitude” from: Cindergarden (B Sides) / Lost River Sound / May 22, 2022 [Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark released Cindergarden (A Sides) through Lost River Sound on May 22, 2022. Kirstie Lynn is a classically trained soprano with a passion for songwriting, always looking to marry poetry and melody. Though Kirstie’s voice has been compared to that of Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, her sound is uniquely her own. Kirstie Lynn is a folk singer-songwriter originally from the fingerlakes region of upstate, NY. She began her professional music studies at the age of 15, and has since received both a Bachelor’s degree from Shenandoah University and a Master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University in voice and opera performance. Her vocal training lends her the freedom to paint her nature inspired lyrics with a wide range and a beautiful and effortless sound. Kirstie Lynn is one half of the duo Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark. // Galen Clark introduces an alternative perspective and approach to music that contains multitudes. Migratory melodies, multi-instrumental fluency, and mysterious texture all outline the stylings of the newly transplanted Cuyahoga Valley songwriter, producer, and musician. // Born into an Air Force family, Clark grew up in many places with family anchors in Vermont and Colorado. At the age of 9 following many failed piano lessons, Clark’s grandparents gifted him a Harmony parlor guitar from a Shelburne flea market, starting a journey that would span almost 2 decades of stylistic development, a plethora of ephemeral bands, a degree in music production and recording technology, and a refined take on songwriting. .. Sharing songs spanning the stoic mountains of Idaho’s lost river range to the ancient hum of the Shenandoah Valley, Galen draws upon energy strewn between varied time and place, a broader quest for belonging, and rejuvenation beyond the front door. Clark’s previous records, Providence (2018) and The Well (2020) offer a contemplative portrait of moods in natural ambiguity, collective consciousness, and introspection. His most recent collaboration with KC – based artist, Kirstie Lynn is a reckoning that is to be heard live and will transport you elsewhere if not in mind than in spirit.]
[Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark play a CINDERGARDEN B-Sides, Special Release Show at Hillsiders, 403 N. 5th Street, KCK, TONIGHT on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 with Kelly Hunt opening the show.]
Galen Clark & Kirstie Lynn on the June 21, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio
10:15 – Interview with Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark
Kirstie Lynn is a classically trained soprano with a passion for songwriting, always looking to marry poetry and melody. Though Kirstie’s voice has been compared to that of Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, her sound is uniquely her own. Kirstie Lynn is a folk singer-songwriter originally from the fingerlakes region of upstate, NY. She began her professional music studies at the age of 15, and has since received both a Bachelor’s degree from Shenandoah University and a Master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University in voice and opera performance. Her vocal training lends her the freedom to paint her nature inspired lyrics with a wide range and a beautiful and effortless sound. Kirstie Lynn is a reckoning that is to be heard live and will transport you elsewhere if not in mind than in spirit Kirstie Lynn is one half of the duo Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark.
Galen Clark introduces an alternative perspective and approach to music that contains multitudes. Migratory melodies, multi-instrumental fluency, and mysterious texture all outline the stylings of the newly transplanted Cuyahoga Valley songwriter, producer, and musician. // Born into an Air Force family, Clark grew up in many places with family anchors in Vermont and Colorado. At the age of 9 following many failed piano lessons, Clark’s grandparents gifted him a Harmony parlor guitar from a Shelburne flea market, starting a journey that would span almost 2 decades of stylistic development, a plethora of ephemeral bands, a degree in music production and recording technology, and a refined take on songwriting. Sharing songs spanning the stoic mountains of Idaho’s lost river range to the ancient hum of the Shenandoah Valley, Galen draws upon energy strewn between varied time and place, a broader quest for belonging, and rejuvenation beyond the front door. Clark’s previous records, Providence (2018) and The Well (2020) offer a contemplative portrait of moods in natural ambiguity, collective consciousness, and introspection.
Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark are releasing CINDERGARDEN B-Sides, with a special show at Hillsiders, 403 N. 5th Street, Kansas City, Kansas, on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 with Kelly Hunt opening the show.
Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.
10:27
Galen Clark & Kirstie Lynn on the June 21, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio
Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark – “Julie Boy” from: Cindergarden (B Sides) / Lost River Sound / May 22, 2022 [Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark released Cindergarden (A Sides) through Lost River Sound on May 22, 2022. Kirstie Lynn is a classically trained soprano with a passion for songwriting, always looking to marry poetry and melody. Though Kirstie’s voice has been compared to that of Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, her sound is uniquely her own. Kirstie Lynn is a folk singer-songwriter originally from the fingerlakes region of upstate, NY. She began her professional music studies at the age of 15, and has since received both a Bachelor’s degree from Shenandoah University and a Master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University in voice and opera performance. Her vocal training lends her the freedom to paint her nature inspired lyrics with a wide range and a beautiful and effortless sound. Kirstie Lynn is one half of the duo Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark. // Galen Clark introduces an alternative perspective and approach to music that contains multitudes. Migratory melodies, multi-instrumental fluency, and mysterious texture all outline the stylings of the newly transplanted Cuyahoga Valley songwriter, producer, and musician. // Born into an Air Force family, Clark grew up in many places with family anchors in Vermont and Colorado. At the age of 9 following many failed piano lessons, Clark’s grandparents gifted him a Harmony parlor guitar from a Shelburne flea market, starting a journey that would span almost 2 decades of stylistic development, a plethora of ephemeral bands, a degree in music production and recording technology, and a refined take on songwriting. .. Sharing songs spanning the stoic mountains of Idaho’s lost river range to the ancient hum of the Shenandoah Valley, Galen draws upon energy strewn between varied time and place, a broader quest for belonging, and rejuvenation beyond the front door. Clark’s previous records, Providence (2018) and The Well (2020) offer a contemplative portrait of moods in natural ambiguity, collective consciousness, and introspection. His most recent collaboration with KC – based artist.]
[Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark play a CINDERGARDEN B-Sides, Special Release Show at Hillsiders, 403 N. 5th Street, KCK, TONIGHT on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 with Kelly Hunt opening the show.]
10:30 – Underwriting
10:32 – Make Music Day with Jass and Clarence Copridge
Jass is a vocalist, poet, instrumentalist, and creative from Kansas City, MO. She grew up singing in the choir and was involved in band and orchestra, playing the keyboard, flute, saxophone, viola, and she taught herself to play the bass guitar. In 2011 she started doing covers on YouTube, but it had always been a dream of hers to share her original work so she released her first project At the Close of a Decade.
Make Music Day is a worldwide celebration of music on June 21st! music rings out simultaneously across more than 120 countries
Musicians and artists perform at different venues around the city to celebrate music. It is all FREE and open to the public.
Jass is starting her Make Music Day here on 90.1 FM KKFI on WMM
Jass plays PH Coffee, 2200 Lexington Ave, KCMO 2:30 to 3:30 Pm to play some tunes,
Jass and her band will play Lemonade Park, 1628 Wyoming, Street, KCMO West Bottoms 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
10:35
Jass – “Higher Ground” w/ Clarence Copridge from: “Higher Ground” – Single / JASS / August 16, 2022, [Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch. This new single follows her release, “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.” // Last month un August – Jass played a SOLD OUT Thundercat show at GRINDERS, released a brand new single called HIGHER GROUND and in the first month there are 500 streams and it was added to Sofar Sounds CHILL VIBES Spotify playlist, and Jass played a SOLD OUT @sofarsoundskc show, and headlined a show at The Bottleneck in Lawrence with my boys! (Colby Bales and Brande Moser), 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]
10:39 – Interview with Jass
As part of Make Music Day, Jass and Clarence Copridge are playing live in our 90.1 FM Studios! Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch.
Jass released her single “Higher Ground” on August 16, 2022. It was WMM’s #1 Single in our 50 Favorite Singles of 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.”
10:46
8. Jass – “Up/Down” w/ Clarence Copridge (LIVE)
10:49 – Interview with Jass
Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch, with Clarence Copridge on keyboards
Make Music Day is a worldwide celebration of music on June 21, where music rings out simultaneously across more than 120 countries
Musicians and artists perform at different venues around the city to celebrate music. It is all FREE and open to the public.
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 EP, OFF KEY: TOO HIGH on September 23, 2022. Jass released the single “Higher Ground” on August 16, 2022. Jass released her single, “Him” on February 23, 2022. //
Jass has opened for Thundercat sat GRINDERS, headlined a show at The Bottleneck in Lawrence with my boys! (Colby Bales and Brande Moser), 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.
Jass & The Boys released the single “Love U Like I Love U (feat. Jass & Black Light Animals)” through Groove King Records – Fat Beats on December 2, 2022. “The Boys” are the members of Black Light Animals: Colby Bales, Branden Moser, & Cody Calhoun. Colby and Branden also are pare of The Freedom Affair.
Jass has played The Essence Festival, Boulevardia, Apocalypse Meow, Manor Fest, Farmers Ball, KC Monarchs, recordBar, Bottleneck, Mutual Musicians Foundation, Grinders, Sofar Sounds, The Uptown Theatre . She has shared the stages with The New Respects, Thundercat, Old Sound, and many others. More info at: http://www.jassrcouch.com
10:54
Clarence Copridge on the June 21, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio
Jass – “Amy’s Song” w/ Clarence Copridge (LIVE)
Jass is starting her Make Music Day here on 90.1 FM KKFI on WMM
Jass plays PH Coffee, 2200 Lexington Ave, KCMO 2:30 to 3:30 Pm to play some tunes,
Jass and her band will play Lemonade Park, 1628 Wyoming, Street, KCMO West Bottoms 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Calvin Arsenia – “Don’t Call Me (feat. Kadesh Flow)” from: Paradise / Calvin Arsenia / June 23, 2023
[Calvin Arsenia plays a PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com]
11:04 – Interview with Calvin Arsenia
Calvin Arsenia one of our most frequent guests, who first appeared on WMM on July 25, 2012. Today marks his 21st appearance! KC Magazine has 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.’ Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey began when he moved to Olathe, Kansas, teaching himself the guitar, piano, banjo. He learned his signature instrument, the harp, at the age of 20. His passion for stretching the boundaries of musical expression saw him transform a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Festival early in his career into a life-changing music mission, with 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, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. On February 14, 2017 Calvin released his critically acclaimed full length debut, Catastrophe, with a live show at recordBar in November 2016 that involved a company of 50 people, dancers, stilt walkers. After signing to Center Cut Records, Calvin released the albums: Cantaloupe in 2018, with a sold out gigantic spectical at The Gem Theatre on Saturday, September 15, 2018. He then released, L.A. Sessions in 2019, and the EP HONEY DEW, and the EP Goddess with Quixotic, 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 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 now Los Angeles. Calvin is also the published author of VERY GOOD BOY DOES FINE, a collection of Poetry & Prose published on October 5, 2021, by Andrews McMeel Universal. Calvin was voted KC’s Best Musician in The Pitch 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. He has been featured in Billboard, NPR.org. Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott.
Calvin Arsenia joins us to share details about his new album PARADISE and his big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com
Calvin Arsenia, thanks for being with us on WMM.
11:13
Calvin Arsenia – “Help! The Flying Monkeys are Coming” from: Paradise / Calvin Arsenia / June 23, 2023
[Calvin Arsenia plays a PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com]
11:16 – Interview with Calvin Arsenia
Calvin Arsenia joins us to share details about his new album PARADISE and his big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com
Calvin Arsenia, thanks for being with us on WMM.
Calvin Arsenia Discography
Calvin Arsenia – Moments [EP] / Independent / April 9, 2014 Calvin Arsenia was 24 when he released this EP after returning home to Kansas City after living and performing in Edinburgh, Scotland. Calvin works as a songwriter, composer, lyricist, producer, and engineer. Calvin Arsenia played live on Wednesday MidDay Medley on October 22. 2014.
Calvin Arsenia – Prose [EP] / Independent / February 3, 2015 Recorded over the course of three live sessions at Edinburgh’s Napier University. Produced by Graham Coe. Engineered by David O’Leary. Music and Lyrics: Calvin Arsenia, with Fiona Reid & Liselot Van Oosterom on Vocals, Graham Coe on Cello, Mark Smith on Percussion, Lyle Watt on Guitar Calvin Arsenia on Vocals & Guitar & Piano. Calvin Arsenia joined us on WMM on March 18, August 5, and October 28.
Calvin Arsenia – Caviar [EP] / Calvin Arsenia / December 5, 2017 Produced for attendees at Calvin’s “Secret Show,” Tuesday, December 5, at Wickstock West, 1324 West 12th Street, in The West Bottoms, and for supporters of his Outlyre Tour. Words and Music by Calvin Arsenia. Produced by Jametatone, Simon Huntley and Calvin Arsenia. Recorded at The Infoaming Vertex.
Calvin Arsenia – Catastrophe {EP] / Calvin Arsenia / February 17, 2016 Limited edition EP, produced for Folk Alliance International, contains demo recordings of original gems that are the blueprints for Calvin’s soon to be released full length debut, coming in 2017. Since Calvin Arsenia came home to KC after living in Edinburgh, Scotland, he has released his EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. He has played all over town, including showcases at Folk Alliance International, Kansas City Fringe Fest, The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, and collaborations with bands like My Brothers and Sisters. Standing at 6 foot 5 inches, Arsenia’s powerful vocals span a 3.5 octave range, while playing piano, bango, guitar and harp. Calvin Arsenia is getting ready to release a new album in the fall. Calvin teaches music to elementary students. Calvin is also a graduate of Artist INC professional development program for artists in the Kansas City metro area and across the Mid-America Arts Alliance five state region. Calvin Arsenia joined us live on WMM on February 24, July 13, and November 2.
Calvin Arsenia – Catastrophe [Album] / Calvin Arsenia / February 14, 2017 Calvin Arsenia premiered these songs in a live show at recordBar in November 2016 in a stage show that involved a cpmpany of 50 people, dancers, stilt walkers, special lighting, back up singers, guest artists. Since Calvin Arsenia came home to KC after living in Edinburgh, Scotland, he has released his EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. Standing at 6 foot 6 inches, Arsenia’s powerful vocals span a 3.5 octave range, while playing piano, banjo, guitar and harp Calvin teaches music to elementary students. Calvin is also a graduate of Artist INC. Since 2014 we have been celebrating the music of Calvin Arsenia. He has played Folk Alliance International, Kansas City Fringe Fest, The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, The Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts, The Middle of the Map Fest., The Folly Theatre. Calvin recently returned home from a three month US/European Outlyre Tour where he has played San Francisco, Portland, Vancouver, NYC, Boston, Edinburgh, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Switzerlnd, Lyon and Paris. in over 40 shows, with musician and friend Simon Huntley who plays with Quixotic. Calvin is working to release new music from Calvin’s June 11th, Live Recording at Kansas City’s newly restored Greenwood Social Hall, at 1750 Bellevue Ave. in KC. ] [Calvin Arsenia played Big Bang Buffet’s “Black Sheep Rising,” Tuesday, April 11, at 8:00 at The Buffalo Room. A benefit for 90.1 FM KKFI featuring Ron Megee, Lisa Cordes, Jon “Piggy” Cupit, The Sleazebeats, Kristie Stremel, Jen Harris, Maria Vasquez Boyd, Jen Appell, Bill Belzer, Charlie Colborne, Mark Manning, Susan Cedarquis-Brewington, BJ McBride, Michael McQuary, Janet Henry, Ryan Wilks, and Nico Gray.] [Calvin Arsenia was on WMM on Feb. 15, April 12, Sept. 20, and Oct. 25 , 2017.
Calvin Arsenia – Live at Greenwood Social Hall / Unreleased / June 11, 2017 Solo live performance at Greenwood Social Hall, 1760 Bellevue, KCMO.
Calvin Arsenia – Caviar [EP] / Calvin Arsenia / December 5, 2017 Produced for attendees at Calvin’s “Secret Show,” Tuesday, December 5, at Wickstock West, 1324 West 12th Street, in The West Bottoms, and for supporters of his Outlyre Tour. Words and Music by Calvin Arsenia. Produced by Jametatone, Simon Huntley and Calvin Arsenia. Recorded at The Infoaming Vertex. Since Calvin Arsenia came home to KC after living in Edinburgh, Scotland, he has released his EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. n the late Summer and Fall Calvin went on a three month US/European Outlyre Tour where he has played San Francisco, Portland, Vancouver, NYC, Boston, Edinburgh, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Switzerlnd, Lyon and Paris. in over 40 shows, with musician and friend Simon Huntley who plays with Quixotic. Since 2014 we have been celebrating the music of Calvin Arsenia. He has played Folk Alliance International, Kansas City Fringe Fest, The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, The Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts, The Middle of the Map Fest., The Folly Theatre. Standing at 6 foot 6 inches, Arsenia’s powerful vocals span a 3.5 octave range, while playing piano, banjo, guitar and harp. Calvin teaches music. Calvin is a graduate of Artist INC.
Calvin Arsenia – Cantaloupe / Center Cut Records / September 15, 2018. Calvin’s 2018 national debut, Cantaloupe (Center Cut Records), has been acclaimed for melding diverse textures into an alluring signature sound for the adventurous artist.
Calvin Arsenia – L.A. Sessions / Center Cut Records / September 20, 2019 Calvin performed live at L.A.’s The Mint, showcasing songs on LA Sessions with musicians who collaborated on the album. Says Calvin: “It’s such a special experience to play with them. To be able to perform these songs in front of an audience and do this for a living – to have made a career out of something I love is so amazing – it is an honor that I never take for granted.”
Calvin Arsenia – Honeydew / Center Cut Records / June 28, 2019 [On September 15, 2018 Calvin released Cantaloupe on Center Cut Records. This new EP is a remix of three of the songs from Cantaloupe, plus a Talking Heads cover that was performed live in this style at a New Year’s Eve show at The Truman opening for Making Movies who performed the entire Talking Heads album, Remain in Light. The last three songs on Honeydew were from performed in this style at The Nelson Atkins 2019 event “Party Arty.” Honeydew was produced by Jametatone, Simon Huntley, Calvin Arsenia.
Quixotic & Calvin Arsenia – “Goddess – EP / Quixotic / May 17, 2019 [An innovative performance art collective that fuses imagination with technology, dance, projection, mapping & live music to create fully-immersive, multi-sensory experiences. Quixotic harnesses light, rhythm and expressive emotion. Quixotic was given Silicon Valley’s unofficial stamp of genius when they were invited to perform at the global TED Conference in 2012. A unique blend of performance art, technology & emotion. Quixotic fuses all these elements in to what the New York Times branded an “innovative circus performance”.]
Calvin Arsenia – all is calm / Calvin Arsenia. / December 13, 2019 [Arsenia’s dreamlike whimsy shimmering through your favorite Christmas Classics. All proceeds for this album go towards the purchase of Calvin’s first harp. Featuring: Ben Muñoz on Cello, Shane Borth on Violin and Voila, and Luke “Skippy” Harbur on Beatbox. Mastered by Jametatone at the Infoaming Vertex and special thanks to Simon Huntley. Calvin wrote: “I recorded the majority of this album in my bedroom in between flights to and from KC and SF. I had my nephews and friend’s kids in mind and wanted an album of Christmas lullabys. I think it became just a little more sassy than anticipated, but I think you’ll enjoy it regardless.
Calvin Arsenia – Summer in Hindsight / Calvin Arsenia & Mike Dillon / Oct. 16, 2020 Soundtrack by Calvin Arsenia and Mike Dillon for The West 18th Street Fashion Show’s 20th year as a feature-length film. COVID-19 changed everything in 2020. “We are moving it from the street to the screen,” says Peregrine Honig to inkansascitymagazine. “Mike Dillon and Calvin Arsenia will be scoring and performing in the film.” The film premiered October 16, 2020 at The Boulevard Drive-In. Honig wrote,. “We did this during a pandemic and a cultural revolution. I am not sure where else or how else this could happen at this moment in history.” Calvin Arsenia had recently been emotionally and greatly moved by the area and national Black Lives Matter Movement. His own research into his own family revealed that Calvin’s great, great, great grandmother Alice Gilliam Scott, was a former slave who lived to observe her 100th birthday as noted by a regional newspaper Calvin had written. In the summer of 2020 Calvin wrote “Revelation” an unreleased track inspired by Black Lives Matter. Calvin premiered the song on WMM on August 12, 2020. He later shared his other new songs, “Scars and Stripes” and “The Flying Monkees are Coming!” on our October 14, 2020 edition of WMM. Both of those songs ended up on Summer in Hindsight.
Calvin’s Book VERY GOOD BOY DOES FINE / Andrews McMeel Universal / Oct. 5, 2021 a collection of Poetry & Prose
Calvin Arsenia – “The Painted Ladies of San Francisco” from: Paradise / Calvin Arsenia / June 23, 2023
[Calvin Arsenia plays a PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com]
11:29 – Underwriting
11:31 – Interview with Calvin Arsenia
Calvin Arsenia who shares details about his new album PARADISE and his big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. Singer, harpist, and author Calvin Arsenia has built a reputation for turning the arts world on its head. Voted Kansas City’s Best Musician 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 (PitchKC), and featured on Billboard.com, NPR.org, NEWNOWNEXT, Pride.com, and GRAMMY.com. “Calvin has consistently delivers genre-bending and gender-bending shows that tackle sexuality, religion, and race in a stunningly unorthodox manner – somewhere between sacred and sacrilege.” A healthy serving of indie rock, neo-soul, R&B, and a splash of art pop, this multi-instrumentalist singer songwriter is a shimmering force of nature. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com
Calvin Arsenia thank you for being with us today on WMM.
[Calvin Arsenia plays a PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com]
10:45 – Interview with Calvin Arsenia
Calvin Arsenia who shares details about his new album PARADISE and his big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. Singer, harpist, and author Calvin Arsenia has built a reputation for turning the arts world on its head. Voted Kansas City’s Best Musician 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 (PitchKC), and featured on Billboard.com, NPR.org, NEWNOWNEXT, Pride.com, and GRAMMY.com. “Calvin has consistently delivers genre-bending and gender-bending shows that tackle sexuality, religion, and race in a stunningly unorthodox manner – somewhere between sacred and sacrilege.” A healthy serving of indie rock, neo-soul, R&B, and a splash of art pop, this multi-instrumentalist singer songwriter is a shimmering force of nature.
Calvin Arsenia thank you for being with us today on WMM.
Calvin Arsenia plays a big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS.
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on WMM on June 28, is our 1000th Show with LIVE Performances from some of our most favorite guests: Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Calvin Arsenia, Ivory Blue, Stephonne, and Jen Harris.
Big THANK YOU to all of our wonderful listeners and friends who generously and thoughtfully donated to support KKFI 90.1 FM – Kansas City Community Radio!!! During our Wednesday MidDay Medley Spring Fund Drive shows on June 7 and June 14, and through social media, we raised $4742.00 from 59 individual Donors! Thank you to our diverse and beautiful listeners who generously donated to allow us to continue our great mission here at 90.1 FM KKFI.
THANK YOU to my incredible co-hosts: Betse Ellis & Marion Merritt & Nico Gray, and our wonderful staff KKFI Director of Development and Communications, J Kelly Dougherty, Vounteer Coordinator Darryl Oliver, and Chief Operator Chad Brothers. And to Lincoln Dreher all of our fantastic phone volunteers for donating your time to take our donations over the phones.
This radio station is not about the individual hosts of each individual radio show. Instead it is about a collective spirit of hundreds of wonderful people, unselfishly setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the gigantic goal of keeping our airwaves free, non-commercial, and open to all! Congratulations and thank you to all programmers & volunteers who went the 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 Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Make Music Day with Jass + Calvin Arsenia + Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark
WMM plays music from Julia Haile, The Blast Monkeys, Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark, Calvin Arsenia, Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear.
At 10:15 we welcome Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark who’ll share tracks from the second half of their full album, CINDERGARDEN. Kirstie Lynn is a classically trained soprano with a passion for songwriting, always looking to marry poetry and melody. Galen Clark is a Cuyahoga Valley multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer, and musician newly transplanted to Kansas City. Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark are releasing CINDERGARDEN B-Sides, with a special show at Hillsiders, 403 N. 5th Street, Kansas City, Kansas, on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 with Kelly Hunt opening the show.
At 10:30 AM as part of Make Music Day, Jass will play live in our 90.1 FM Studios! Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch. Jass and The Boys released the single “Love U Like I Love U” on December 2, 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. Jass has had her music featured on the Peacock Television dramatic series, Belair. She opened for Thundercat at GRINDERS, 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
At 11:00 AM we welcome Calvin Arsenia who shares details about his new album PARADISE and his big PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. Singer, harpist, and author Calvin Arsenia has built a reputation for turning the arts world on its head. Voted Kansas City’s Best Musician 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 (PitchKC), and featured on Billboard.com, NPR.org, NEWNOWNEXT, Pride.com, and GRAMMY.com. “Calvin has consistently delivers genre-bending and gender-bending shows that tackle sexuality, religion, and race in a stunningly unorthodox manner – somewhere between sacred and sacrilege.” A healthy serving of indie rock, neo-soul, R&B, and a splash of art pop, this multi-instrumentalist singer songwriter is a shimmering force of nature. More info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
WMM Serves Music of Boulevardia + Chris Haghirian + Marion Merritt & Nico Gray
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit– “Cast Iron Skillet” from: Weathervanes / Southeastern Records / June 9, 2023 [9th solo album from Michael Jason Isbell was born February 1, 1979. He is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. He is known for his solo career, his work with the band The 400 Unit, and as a member of Drive-By Truckers for six years, from 2001 to 2007. Isbell has won four Grammy Awards. // Isbell’s band, The 400 Unit, is primarily made up of musicians from the Muscle Shoals, Alabama, area. The lineup is: Sadler Vaden on guitar, backup vocals (also of Drivin’ N Cryin’); Jimbo Hart on bass, backup vocals; Derry DeBorja on keyboard, accordion, backup vocals (formerly of Son Volt); Chad Gamble on drums, backup vocals (brother of Al Gamble); Amanda Shires on fiddle, backup vocals. The band’s name comes from the 400 Unit, a colloquial name for the psychiatric ward of Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital in Florence, Alabama. It was originally called the 400 Unit because it was in a separate building from the main three-story hospital. After renovation in the 1980s, the ward was renamed as the Behavioral Health Center, also known as 1st North, and is located on the hospital’s first floor. // Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit’s eponymous album was released on February 17, 2009, on Lightning Rod Records. Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit was Isbell’s second solo release and his first release with The 400 Unit. Matt Pence of Centro-Matic co-produced and engineered the record, as well as playing drums on the record. // Isbell and the 400 Unit released their second album, Here We Rest, on April 12, 2011, on Lightning Rod Records. The album was produced and recorded by the band. The song “Alabama Pines” was named Song of the Year at the 2012 Americana Music Awards. // On March 13, 2017, Isbell announced a new album with the 400 Unit, The Nashville Sound. The album was released on June 16, 2017. Isbell and the band won the Grammy Award for Best Americana Album and Isbell won Grammy Award for Best American Roots Song at the 60th ceremony. // In October 2017, Isbell was announced to be the official artist-in-residence at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. He made a guest appearance on John Prine’s 2018 album The Tree of Forgiveness. Isbell contributed the ballad “Maybe It’s Time” to the soundtrack of the 2018 film A Star Is Born, where it was performed by actor Bradley Cooper’s character, Jackson Maine. // On February 11, 2020, Isbell announced a new album, Reunions. It was released on May 15, 2020. Reunions sees Isbell once again working with producer Dave Cobb and features guest vocals by Jay Buchanan of Rival Sons and David Crosby. The album announcement was made alongside the release of the first song of the album, “Be Afraid”, which peaked at a career high number 5 on the Adult Alternative Songs chart. Also, second single, “Dreamsicle” peaked at number 20 on the same chart. // On November 5, 2020, Isbell announced on Twitter that if Joe Biden won the state of Georgia in the 2020 United States presidential election, he would record a charity album featuring covers of songs by Georgia artists, such as R.E.M. and Gladys Knight. After it was projected that Biden had won the state, he reaffirmed on Twitter that he was being serious and that he would begin work on the album shortly. The album, entitled Georgia Blue, was released October 15, 2021.]
[Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit play Boulevardia, Fri, June 16, at 9:30 PM on Visit Missouri Grand Stage]
10:06 – Intro / Pledge Break #1
Today WMM plays music of the bands and artists, from the lineup for the upcoming 8th annual Boulevardia Beer & Music Festival including: The Beths, The War and Treaty, Big Freedia, Katy Guillen & The Drive, Hembree, Kat King, Caley Rose, FlareThaRebel, The Salvation Choir, Steddy P, Zion Isaiah, Cimafunk, Surfaces, and grandson. We started with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit.
Chris Haghirian who joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. More info at: http://www.boulevardia.com
But first, we take break to encourage YOU to support 90.1 FM KKFI. To help me, is…
Marion Merritt is our most frequent contributor to WMM, She grew up in Los Angeles, and St. Louis. She went to college in Columbia, Missouri. She studied art and musical engineering, and is a avid lover of classic films and punk rock music. She saw Talking Heads on their first U.S. tour when they played One Block West in 1978. For nearly 19 years she has been sharing her musical discoveries and information from her musically-encyclopedic brain on Wednesday MidDay Medley. With her partner Ann Stewart, Marion is the proprietor of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business at 1614 Westport Rd. in Kansas City, that features new vinyl releases, in-store performances,, and was once the location for a wedding. More information at: http://www.recordwithmerritt.com
Marion Merritt, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Nico Gray, has been an Associate Programmer on our WMM team for over 10 years, helping us with shows about Glam Rock, David Bowie, and multiple Fund Drive shows, and serving as Guest Producer for 12 different shows. Last year Nico became a full fledged Programmer at 90.1 FM completing months of training, and testing. Nico Gray is now the Host & Producer of “Radio Nicopisa” currently broadcast on Thursdays 12:00 Midnight to 2:00 AM on 90.1 FM KKFI, until it can find a home in the daytime line-up. Radio Nicopisa is the second spin-off show from WMM following in the footsteps of ARTSPEAK Radio with Maria Vasquez Boyd who also first started as a “Guest Producer” on WMM, and who we mentored over the years as she found her own show and time slot and is now celebrating 11 Years on the Airwaves of KKFI. Nico Gray is also a writer, performance artist, and has worked as an actor with Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Gorilla Theatre, 8th St. Cafe Theatre, Actor’s Craft, and Big Bang Buffet. He appeared in HBO film “Truman” and in the Robert Altman film, “Kansas City.” Nico was also in an early short film of John McGrath that had a small role played by Emmy Award Winner Jason Sudeikis. Nico is currently a marketing & advertising consultant with Union Station and the several years worked as Marketing Director for Fringe Festival KC.
Nico Gray, 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 33 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’re non-profit, but we still have to pay the electric bill, the rent on our fully accessible production studios and offices, insurance, staff, royalties, production expenses. Even though we have hundreds of committed volunteers, who donate thousands of hours every year, producing radio shows, answering phones, creating websites, producing benefits, rewiring the board, setting up our computer system, we still need YOU, our listener, to take a moment and call 888-931-0901 and donate to keep us alive! Our volunteers are waiting to hear from YOU right now.
90.1 FM KKFI is “Radio Powered By Diversity” For 35 Years our Kansas City Area Community Speaks Through our Airwaves and this Program.
In 2022 on WMM we conducted over 120 interviews with 120 special guests: Kianna Alarid White, Cale Parks, Nico Gray, Betse Ellis, Marion Merritt, Rose Brown, Ivory Blue, Klaartje Van Lue, Ernest James Zydeco, Julia Othmer, Julie Bennett Hume, Mikal Shapiro, Leslie Pories, Matt & Melissa Weinman of Dimension Bill Edwards, Oliver Hall, Jeremiah James Gonzales and Brody Lowe of Redder Moon, Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, Nick Robertson, Travis McKenzie, Andrew Woody of The Creepy Jingles, Jennifer Owen of Owen Cox Dance, Nate Holt of Asterales, Isaac Flynn of Hembree, D Rashaan Gilmore, Luke M. Harbur aka Music By Skippy, Fritz Hutchison, Jenna Rae, Kristie Stremel, Sondra Freeman of Midwest Music Foundation, Meighan Peifer & Patricia Doherty, Jade Green & Xavier Martin of The Black Creatures, Jesse Kates of The Sexy Accident, Chad Brothers, Kristopher Bruders and Mark Smeltzer of Freight Train Rabbit Killer, Jnabe, Jessica Salley, Brodie Rush of Be/Non, Shaun Crowley, Nilko Andreas, Amy Farrand, Sam Platt, Stacy Busch & Kalli Siringas of No Divide KC, Taylor Avazpour, Jessica Ayala and Les Izmore of Arquesta Del Sol Soul, Luke Petet, Chris Haghirian, Stephonne Singleton, Dedric Moore, Scott Hrabko, Just Angel, Vi Tran, KKFI Board President Catina Taylor, KKFI Interns: Yassi Armer-Shabazz, Zoey Harris, and Kotah Kauffman, Lee Walter Redding, Chalis O’Neal, Tucker Slough, Major Matt Mason USA, Brook Worlledge, Stephanie Bankston, Mia Morrow of Boxknife, Cooper Scott of Jean Claude and The Eclairs, Kadesh Flow, Dr. Sonia Hall, Necia Gamby, Kelly Hunt, Aaron Shinn and Tell Pryor of Lazy Projector, Lacey Gronniger of Dreamgirl, Bill Sundahl, Nick Carswell of Carswell & Hope, Tillie Alexandra Hall of MellowPhobia, Nathan Reusch of The Record Machine, Diane Patterson. Kiley Sutter, Steve Tulipana, Miki P, Rachel Lovelace, Ryan Wise, AJ Knudson, and Jimmy Girod of LYXE, Trent Michael Munsinger of You Monster You, Judith G. Levey, Mike McCoy, Heather Grehan, & Lisa McKenzie of Cher U.K., Brie Howard-Darling, Patti Quatro, Mia Huggins, of Fanny, Nita Norris, and Jackie Nugent, Brenton Cook of Outer Reaches Fest, Mark Ronning of Les Bons Bons Electriques, Lotta Williams, and Chris Hudson, Fally Afani of I Heart Local Music, Nick Spacek of The Pitch, Sondra Freeman, Tre’ Mutava, Howie Howard, Glenn North, and Eddie Moore.
10:12
The Beths – “Future Me Hates Me” from: Future Me Hates Me / Carpark Records / August 10, 2018 [The Beths are from Auckland, New Zealand. Elizabeth Stokes on lead vocals & guitar, Jonathan Pearce on guitar & vocals, Benjamin Sinclair on bass & vocals, Ivan Luketina-Johnston on drums & vocals. Their debut album on Carpark Records. Elizabeth Stokes previously worked in a folk band. “Fronting this kind of band was a new experience for me,” says Stokes. “I never thought I had the right voice for it.” All four members of The Beths studied jazz at university, resulting in a toolkit of deft instrumental chops and tricked-out arrangements that operate on a level rarely found in guitar-pop. Beths guitarist and studio guru Jonathan Pearce (whose other acts as producer include recent Captured Tracks signing Wax Chattels) brings it all home with an approach that’s equal parts seasoned perfectionist and D.I.Y. Channeling their stew of personal-canon heroes while drawing inspiration from contemporaries like Alvvays and Courtney Barnett, The Beths serve up deeply emotional lyrics packaged within heavenly sounds that delight in probing the limits of the pop form.]
[The Beths plays Boulevardia, Friday, June 16, at 6:25 PM on Visit Missouri Grand Stage]
10:16 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting. http://www.boulevardia.com
Chris Haghirian thanks for being with us on WMM
VISIT MISSOURI GRAND STAGE, FOUNTAIN STAGE, P3 PARK STAGE, QUIRK STAGE, SILENT DISCO
With Brewing Companies, Restaurants & Food Trucks, Merchants in the Makers Market, Plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and VIP Experiences.
Boulevardia 2023 – Friday, June 16
Trevor Turla – 4:25 PM – Propaganda 3 Stage
Kansas City Latin Jazz Orchestra – 5:00 PM – Fountain Stage
Kat King – 5:05 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
Back Alley Brass Band – 5:45 PM – Propaganda Park Stage
Caley Rose – 5:45 – Quirk Terrace Stage
Glass Bandit – 6:15 PM – Fountain Stage
The Beths – 6:25 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
Malek Azreal and The Vibez – 7:00 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Katy Gullen and The Drive – 7:10 PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage
Six Percent – 7:30 PM – Fountain Stage
The War and Treaty – 7:50 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
Steddy P – 8:15 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Cimafunk – 8:45 PM – Fountain Stage
Post Sex Nachos – 8:50 PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage
Friendly Thieves – 9:30 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit – 9:30pm – VISIT MISSOURI GRAND STAGE
The Freedom Affair – 10:00 PM – Fountain Stage
MONSTER ENERGY SILENT DISCO
Dirty Jackie / ANJ / DJ Joe / DJ Baby Boi / DJ Ice Kile – 5:00 PM Dirty Jackie / ANJ / DJ Joe / DJ Baby Boi / DJ Ice Kile – 6:00 PM
Assjamz / DJ Diehard / DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole – 7:00 PM Assjamz / DJ Diehard / DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole – 8:00 PM
MADDS – 9:00 PM MADDS – 10:00 PM
Boulevardia 2023 – Saturday, June 17
Grand Marquis – 1:05 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
Say That Again – 1:15 PM – Fountain Stage
Peter Schlamb and the Electric Tinks – 1:45 PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage
The Royal Chief – 2:00 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Jack Kays – 2:25 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
Daisy Buckët Drag Show – 2:30 PM – Fountain Stage
Just Angel and The Waades – 3:03 PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage
Zion Isaiah – 3:15 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Hembree – 3:45 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
The Salvation Choir – 3:45 PM – Fountain Stage
Quite Frankly – 4:25PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage
Tre Mutava – 4:30 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage
Julia Haile – 5:00 PM – Fountain Stage
Big Freedia – 5:05 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage
BLVDIA Skate Party – 1:00 PM BLVDIA Skate Party – 2:00 PM
Boss Hooligan Soundsystem / DJ EJ / DJ Maple – 3:00 PM Boss Hooligan Soundsystem / DJ EJ / DJ Maple – 4:00 PM
DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ Tee Leche / DJ Skittle / DJ On10 – 5:00 PM DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ Tee Leche / DJ Skittle / DJ On10 – 6:00 PM
DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ Aimez / FK Menace / DJ On10 – 7:00 PM DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ Aimez / FK Menace / DJ On10 – 8:00 PM
Sonic Love Collection / DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ NE$$ / DJ On10 – 9:00 PM Sonic Love Collection / DJ Joe / DJ Ice Kole / DJ NE$$ / DJ On10 – 10:00 PM
10:20
Cimafunk – “Rompelo (Feat. Lupe Fiasco)” from: El Alimento / Terapia Productions – Thirty Tigers / October 8, 2021 [Erik Alejandro Iglesias Rodríguez (born 1989), known professionally as Cimafunk, is a Grammy-nominated Cuban musician known for mixing funk and hip hop with Cuban and Afro-Caribbean music. His most recent album, El Alimento, was released in October 2021. // Rodriguez sang in church as a child, and originally planned to become a doctor like several members of his family. He attended medical school in his hometown of Pinar del Río for two years, but moved to Havana in 2010 to pursue music. He worked as a session arranger and producer for Cuban musicians like Raúl Paz and Liuba María Hevia, and was also in the band Interactivo from 2014 to 2016. After leaving that band, he adopted the name Cimafunk, referencing the cimarróns, who were escaped slaves who formed self-sustaining communities in Cuba during the colonial era. Cimafunk is also the name of his backing band, featuring a rotating cast of collaborators. Cimafunk endeavored to blend Afro-Cuban and African American music, with a focus on funk rhythms. The New Yorker has since compared him to James Brown. // Cimafunk self-released the album Terapia in 2017, followed by the single “Me Voy” in 2018. Billboard named him one of the “10 Latin Artists to Watch in 2019”. Cimafunk completed a successful tour of the United States and Europe in 2019, during which time he gained significant popularity in his native Cuba. While on lockdown in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cimafunk released several stand-alone singles and the EP Cun Cun Prá. In October 2021, Cimafunk released the album El Alimento, featuring guest appearances by George Clinton, Lupe Fiasco, and CeeLo Green. Both Rolling Stone and NPR named El Alimento as one of the best albums of the year. The album was nominated for Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. // Studio albums: Terapia (2017) // Cun Cun Prá (EP, 2020) // El Alimento (2021)]
[Cimafunk plays Boulevardia, Friday, June 16, at 8:45 PM on Fountain Stage]
10:24 – Pledge Break #2
Our WMM Spring Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt and Nico Gray
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 and KKFI are committed to featuring artists under-represented in other media, and that includes the music community that lives within Kansas City and Lawrence and the area radiance of our 100 watt signal. The story of Kansas City’s Arts and Music Community is our primary objective on WMM, where for over 19 years we have shined a light on this music and the artist who create it and that story also include the music labels who help get this music out into the community and beyond Kansas City. That story also includes the recording studios where this music is engineered and mastered.
Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM was the first radio show and first radio station to ever play many if these amazing musical artists. WMM was the first to play the recordings of: Calvin Arsenia, and Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear, and Krystle Warren, and The Black Creatures and KD Kuro, The Shy Boys, The Salvation Choir. We were the first to interview these artists live on the radio and bring their music to a wider audience.
10:32 – Underwriting
Big Freedia – “$100 Bill (Feat. Ciara)” from: Central City / Queen Diva Music / June 23, 2023 [Raised on Josephine Street in uptown New Orleans, Big Freedia, born Freddie Ross, was raised by his mother, a hairdresser, and stepfather, a truck driver for Coca-Cola. When Freddie was 15, the family moved to a more upscale neighborhood in New Orleans. Freddie—along with his brother Adam and sister Crystal Ross—were immersed in music at home by their mother, who often sang along to her Gladys Knight and Patty LaBelle records around the house. But it was the Baptist church choir where a young Freddie flourished. ”My mother made sure I never missed practice,” recalls Freedia. It’s no wonder that by the time he was 18, Freedia moved from member to director of the choir. Big Freedia is known as the Queen of Bounce, at the forefront of the Bounce rap movement (a subgenre of hip-hop born out of New Orleans and known for its call and response style and lightening speed booty-shaking dance). Though gay and proud, Big Freedia asserts that her (Freedia is a he but uses the feminine pronoun for her stage persona) sexuality has little to do with her music and rejects the term Sissy Bounce (the queer brand of Bounce). “All Bounce is Bounce,” he insists. “There’s no need to separate it out. All types of people—gay, straight, rich, poor, black, white come to my shows. People just wanna get out and shake their azzzz and have a good time!” And therein lies the beauty of Big Freedia: She can rock a pair of dangling gold earrings and light up a blunt and chop it up with the hardest rapper around. She’s not a gay artist, but rather an artist who happens to be gay. Big Freedia has gone from a local New Orleans phenomenon to a national one after appearing on the HBO series ‘Treme’ [as herself] and in 2010, she released her debut EP on Scion A/V Presents: Big Freedia, produced by NOLA producer BlaqNmilD. The EP featured notables “Excuse” and “Almost Famous; other fan-favorites include “Gin in my System” “Azz Everwhere” and “Y’all Get Back Now.” Shefollowed that up by releasing “Nah Who Mad” and “Booty Whop,” and she was featured on Spank Rock’s “Everything is Boring and Everyone is a Fucking Liar” LP, on the track “Nasty.” She was also featured on “Peanut Butter” with RuPaul. Freedia made her network television network debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! She appeared on “Last Call with Carson Daly,” FADERTV, PITCHFORK TV and has been lauded in press outlets such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Fader, RollingStone.com, SPIN, OffBeat, Chicago Tribune.]
[Big Freedia plays, Boulevardia, Saturday, June 17, at 5:05 PM on the Visit Missouri Grand Stage.]
10:36 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting.
Surfaces – “Sunday Best” from: Where The Light Is / Surfaces Music – TenThousand Projects / January 6, 2019 [Surfaces is an American music group based in College Station, Texas. It currently consists of vocalists/guitarists Forrest Frank and Colin Padalecki. Their music is a blend of surf music, jazz, soul, pop rock, hip hop, reggae, and calypso. They have released four studio albums. Their first independent studio album, Surf, was released in 2017. // Surfaces was formed in 2017. Colin Padalecki began creating music in high school with his cousin and singer Alexa Padalecki. Colin began to upload his music online while attending Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. Forrest Frank, a recent Baylor University graduate from Texas, reached out to Colin after hearing his music and invited him to record music at his houseboat. They released their first album together under the moniker Surfaces in December 2017, entitled Surf. The album’s third track, 24 / 7 / 365, has over 70 million streams on Spotify. After the release of Surf, Forrest Frank released a project with producer Biskwiq under the alias Forrest in July 2018. Notable tracks from the project include “Your Soul” and “Why Not Me”, which have each amassed over 20 million combined streams on Spotify. // In January 2019, the band released their second album, Where the Light Is, under the labels Caroline Records and TenThousand Projects. The seventh track from the album, “Sunday Best”, became a top 40 hit in Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the top 100 in Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland. The song has amassed over 730 million streams on Spotify as of December 2021 and is believed to have gained its popularity from video-sharing app TikTok. It was released to radio in March 2020. A music video for the track was released on YouTube on July 10, 2019. // Their third album, Horizons, was released on February 28, 2020. The music duo released numerous singles as well, which included “Keep It Gold”, “Good Day”, “Bloom”, and “Lazy”, all of which were included as tracks in Horizons. In 2019, they also released two independent singles: “Palm Trees”, and “Take Some Time”, which were not featured on any album. Other singles include “Be Alright” and “Falling”, which were both released in 2017. The single “Low” was released in 2018. Surfaces made their debut on late-night television on March 2, 2020, performing “Sunday Best” on Late Night with Seth Meyers. In June 2020, the band released “Learn to Fly”, a single in collaboration with singer Elton John, produced and recorded online, during the COVID-19 pandemic. By June 12, 2020, “Sunday Best” charted at No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100; the single peaked at No. 19 a week later. // Their fourth album, Pacifico, was released on June 25, 2021. It features the single “Wave of You”. The Deluxe version also includes the single “Sheesh!” with Tai Verdes. Their fifth album, Hidden Youth, was released on August 26, 2022.]
[Surfaces play Boulvardia, Saturday, June 17, at 9:45 PM on the Visit Missouri Grand Stage.]
grandson – “Half My Heart” from: I Love you, I’m Trying / Elektra Music Group / May 6, 2023 [Jordan Edward Benjamin (born October 25, 1993), known professionally as grandson,[4] is a Canadian-American singer, songwriter, and musician currently signed to Fueled by Ramen. He released his major label debut EP, A Modern Tragedy Vol. 1, on June 15, 2018, and released the follow-up A Modern Tragedy Vol. 2 on February 22, 2019. The initial EP featured the single “Blood // Water”, which appeared on several Billboard charts in the United States and Canada. Benjamin’s music focuses on modern-day issues that are less recognized by the media and public. On December 4, 2020, he released his debut studio album, Death of an Optimist, and his second album, I Love You, I’m Trying, was released on May 5, 2023. // Benjamin was born in New Jersey, United States, but when he was 3 years old his family moved to Toronto, Ontario, where his maternal relatives lived (he holds dual citizenship of both countries). He has two sisters. Benjamin grew up largely in the Eglinton West area of Toronto. He attended Northern Secondary School in Toronto and, after graduation, enrolled in McGill University in Montreal. There, he studied education with the initial goal of becoming a teacher. He also spent a great deal of time DJing and playing shows in Montreal while at McGill. After two years, he transferred to Concordia University, another Montreal institution. He studied communications there briefly before dropping out and moving to Los Angeles in 2014 to pursue a music career. // Benjamin began releasing music under the pseudonym Grandson, stylized as grandson, in late 2015. In 2016, he released several singles that accrued millions of streams, including “Bills”, “Things Change”, and “Bury Me Face Down”. In 2017, he was signed to RCA Records, and continued releasing singles, including “Best Friends” and “Ki He also performed at North by Northeast that year (among other festivals). // In April 2018, it was announced that grandson had signed to the Fueled By Ramen record label. He had also released two new singles, “Blood // Water” (a song about political corruption that would go on to appear on multiple Billboard charts) and “Thoughts & Prayers”, which offered a critique of American gun laws in the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. He released his first EP on Fueled by Ramen, A Modern Tragedy Vol. 1, in June 2018. That EP also featured the song “6:00” which discussed police brutality. Also in June 2018, grandson was featured on Mike Shinoda’s song “Running from My Shadow”, taken from his debut album Post Traumatic; the track was released also with an accompanying music video in May 2018. // Throughout 2018, grandson toured with acts like Hobo Johnson, Joywave, Nothing But Thieves, Smashing Pumpkins, and Young the Giant. He also appeared on an episode of Late Night with Seth Meyers in August 2018, performing “Blood // Water”. // In February 2019, he released a new single, “Apologize”, and announced his second EP, A Modern Tragedy Vol. 2, which was released on February 22, 2019. In late May, grandson released a cover of Rage Against the Machine’s “Maria”, a song featured on the 1999 album The Battle of Los Angeles. // In June 2019, he won the SOCAN Songwriting Prize for his song “Blood // Water”, while in September 2019 the singer released A Modern Tragedy Vol. 3, the final installment of the Modern Tragedy trilogy EPs; the record features the lead single “Rock Bottom”, which peaked at No. 38 on the Canadian Rock Chart. // On September 23, 2020, grandson announced on his Facebook page that his debut full-length album Death of an Optimist would be released on December 4, 2020. Death of an Optimist is grandson’s debut album, being his first record to have a heavier tone since the release of the last a modern tragedy EP, a modern tragedy vol. 3. The album gained a lot of publicity and recognition through his social media. He announced a new album in May 2022.] [grandson plays Boulevardia, Saturday Night, June 17, at 8:05 PM – Visit Missouri Grand Stage]
10:45 – Pledge Break #3
Our WMM Spring Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, and Nico Gray
Our most played artists in 2022 were The Black Creatures. Wednesday MidDay Medley was the first radio show to play their music. They have been frequent guests on our show. The Black Creatures released their debut single “Mouth 2 Mouth” June 5, 2016. The Black Creatures released their self-produced, debut album, See No Evil, on December 6, 2017. The Black Creatures released their single Elements on February 14, 2018. Our playlists show that we first played The Black Creatures on March 14, 2018. Since that date we have championed this band. We first saw them live at InterUrban ArtHouse on July 10, 2019 as part of a Celebration of Queer Identity where Mark was also a performer. Their breakthrough album, WILD ECHOES, was self released by the band on September 30, 2019. WILD ECHOES was #2 on WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. WILD ECHOES was re-released and re-mastered by Center Cut Records in 2020 and named Album Of The Year from The Pitch Magazine for 2020. // Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott. // The Black Creatures released their new album By Thy Hand on Center Cut Records on August 12, 2022. // Jade and Xavier just completed performances in the world premiere of Christian A. Walker’s “What Came With Spring” for the Owen/Cox Dance Group October 7 thru 9 at City Stage Theatre, Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, KCMO. // Mark’s brief review: “Being named “Album of The Year” from The Pitch Kansas City was the recognition this young band deserved, because there is really no other band in Kansas City creating incredibly beautiful and painful protest songs in multi genre styles of beats, vocal styles, textures. The immediate personal and poetic lyrics of Jade Green and tribal, dance floor and soulful beats and melodies of Xavier bring the listener into a multicultural, mixed, gender fluid, soul celebration of life and an honest indictment of the racist, homophobic, and sexist world they are navigating through to survive. Listen carefully to these young music makers, they are wise beyond their years. They speak the truth to power. They are beautiful. They are The Black Creatures.”
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.
10:53
Hembree – “ATM” from: ATM – Single / Oread Records / June 15, 2023 [Hembree released their The 15-track album, IT’S A DREAM on February 4, 2022. It was part of WMM 120 Best Recordings of 2023. Hembree, is a KC born band was formed in November of 2015, with Isaac Flynn on guitar, & lead vocals, Garrett Childers on bass & vocals, Eric Davis on keys & synth, Alex Ward on guitar, and Austin Ward on drums. Hembree is signed to Thirty Tigers of Nashville, TN. The band was founded by original members Isaac Flynn, Garrett Childers, and Eric Davis. Brothers Alex and Austin Ward later joined in 2018. Hembree quickly garnered national attention after their single “Holy Water” was placed in an Apple commercial that aired during Super Bowl LII. The band’s music has been featured in a variety of other national placements, including Monday Night Football (NFL) and Bose. Hembree has notably supported Elvis Costello, Phoenix, Cold War Kids, Vance Joy, JR JR, and Joywave, among others. The band first toured Europe in Fall 2018. In 2018, Hembree signed with Thirty Tigers to release their first full-length album House on Fire, released 4/26/2019. In 2019, Hembree performed at Hangout Music Festival. They will also appear on the soundtrack of 13 Reasons Why: Season 3 with the song “Culture”. Hembree was named one of NPR’s Slingshot 2018 Artists to Watch. Rolling Stone named Hembree as one of the thirty best artists at SXSW 2018. “Had It All” debuted on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 on January 19, 2017. Lowe described the song as “absolutely fantastic.” “Holy Water” was featured in Apple’s HomePod “Distortion” TV spot, which ran during Super Bowl LII, the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, and the 2018 Winter Olympics. Hembree released the single, “Reach Out” on July 20, 2021 and “Operators (feat. Bodye)” on Sept. 21, 2021on Oread Records. Info at: http://www.hembreemusic.com]
[Hembree plays Boulevardia Saturday, June 17, at 3:45 on the Visit Missouri Grand Stage.]
10:57 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting.
Kat King – “Baby Talk” from: “Baby Talk” – Single / Manor Records / June 16, 2023 [On Jan. 13, 2023 Kat King released “Gone South” Produced by Joel Martin. Led by Kat, on vocals, with Derek Melies on guitar, John Kaul McCain on bass, Daniel Cole on drums, & Kara LePage on keyse. Centering on themes of self-care, steadfast friendship, and revitalizing optimism. On September 20, 2022 Kat King released the single “With Nothing In My Way.” This followed their single “New Sun” released July 29, 2022. “New Sun” was a follow up to the June 9, 2021, SAY WHAT YOU MEAN 5-track EP, recorded with her band. Co-produced & mixed / mastered by Joel Martin. Lawrence KS based singer songwriter Kat King released her last single “Song of Spain” in 2019 and her single “2017” in, 2018. She released her 5-song EP “Falling Up” on Dec. 1, 2017. Kat King has been creating music since the 2nd grade. She’s produced a 13-song album and 3 EP’s, the 1st one released at 14.]
[Kat King plays Boulevardia, on Friday, June 16, at 5:05 PM on the Visit Missouri Grand Stage]
Flare Tha Rebel-“Playground (feat. The Belief Cycle & Leigh Adams)” from: Summer You, Summer Me. / Shafer / October 21, 2022 [“Rosé All Day” was the lead single from Flare Tha Rebel’s new EP. Playful, yet meaningful, the song is about an empowered woman of which a man is pursuing. Lines within the song such as “and if she’s a tease she can do that ya’ll / she don’t owe you nothing man, please back off”, attempt to change the at times degrading scenarios of this power dynamic. The narrative is done in the backdrop of fun and lighthearted warm weather days, cool summernights, and, of course, plenty of rosé. Continuing with Flare’s Art to Empower initiative, “Rosé All Day” aims to raise funds and awareness for a nonprofit, which this time is the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Abuse (MOCSA). Career and love brought hip-hop MC Flare Tha Rebel back to his hometown of Kansas City, MO, which created a second wind of new music. Noted by The Pitch, “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…” Known for a highly energetic live performance, Flare has shared the stage with artists such as Chance the Rapper, RZA of Wu-Tang Clan, Mac Lethal, Nappy Roots, and CES Cru. Although hip-hop at the core, Flare Tha Rebel’s versatility remains as he balances music with socially progressive themes that are still enjoyable enough to raise a glass to at a party. There’s also a duality to Flare’s approach. Many of his songs are connected to his Art to Empower initiative, raising awareness and funds for a variety of social justice causes and nonprofits. Flare Tha Rebel & Bob Pullian were guests on WMM, Aug. 11, 2021. Flare The Rebel released the EP, The Revolution Will Not Be Hashtagged on July 9, 2021. The recording was #9 on WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2021. Summer You, Summer Me was in the top 10 of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022 ]
[FlareThaRebel plays Boulevardia, on Saturday, June 17, at 5:45 PM on the Quick Terrace Stage]
1:08 – Pledge Break #4
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt & Nico Gray.
Q. Where can I find out about what is happening in my community? A. LGBTQIA, Urban Issues, Black Lives Matter, Labor Rights, The Environment, The Kansas City Visual & Literary Arts , The Performing Arts, Women’s Issues, Native American Issues, 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. Radio Powered by Diversity
11:15
The Salvation Choir – “This Is A Photograph” from: “This is a Photograph (The Salvation Choir Version)” / Dead Oceans / September 20, 2020 [The Salvation Choir is a Congolese rumba band based in Kansas City, Missouri. / Led by choir masters Jeune Wilondja and his father, Pastor John Wilondja, the choir writes, records, and performs original gospel songs in Swahili. / The Salvation Choir has traveled to perform in cities all around the Midwest, including a performance at the 2021 Plaza Art Fair in Kansas City. / Their music was also featured in a national advertising campaign on BBC’s Channel 4 and by the international record company Dust-to-Digital. Wednesday MidDay Medley was the first radio show to ever play their music in North and South America. / Kevin Morby and The Salvation Choir are proud to present “This Is A Photograph (The Salvation Choir Version),” a new reimagining of the title track from Morby’s acclaimed 2022 album. The Salvation Choir is a Congolese rumba choir from Congo and Tanzania based in Kevin’s hometown of Kansas City. “This Is A Photograph (The Salvation Choir Version)” is a stirring iteration of Morby’s original, and is presented alongside a new website on which others can access stems, instrumentals, tutorials and templates so they can make their own family history epics. Kevin Morby elaborates: “At some point last year, a few of you reached out with the request of getting the music to my song ‘This Is A Photograph’ so you could make your own version and tell your own family’s history. I found this incredibly interesting and had never gotten such requests about any of my other songs before. I have decided to heed the call of those few who reached out and I have made a website./ In celebration of this website, and to lead with an example, I reached out to one of my favorite bands, Kansas City’s own The Salvation Choir, to see if they would want to make their own version of ‘This Is A Photograph’ and was over the moon when they agreed. They created their own version in which they reinterpreted the music in their Congolese Rumba style and reworked the lyrics to their own story and sang in both English and Swahili to provide the listener with a window into their past.” // Pelo King Wilondja, The Salvation Choir’s 15-year-old drummer, states: “We met Kevin at one of our practices. I didn’t know who he was at first but then our friend played us his music and I started really liking his songs. Now he’s in my top ten. He invited us to his concert and I was actually sweating because it was so good. Kevin asked us if we wanted to remake his song to be about our family’s history and play it in our style. It was my first time recording drums in a real studio. We loved his idea because photographs are really important to our family and we’re always playing music together. There are over 20 members in the choir and everyone has their own story. The song starts out in Africa and it ends in Kansas City where we all live now. It’s about our family’s history and how we got here.”]
[The Salvation Choir plays Boulevardia, on Saturday, June 17, at 3:45 PM on the Fountain Stage]
11:19 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting.
Katy Guillen & The Drive – “Bottom of Your Belly” from: ANOTHER ONE GAINED / Katy Guillen / August 19, 2022 [Produced by Kevin Ratterman (My Morning Jacket, Heartless Bastards, Ray LaMontagne) at Invisible Creature Studio in Los Angeles. This is brimming with vibrant textures, fuzzy electric guitars, and warm vocals. “Set In Stone” marked the beginning of a major life transition for Katy Guillen (pronounced Ghee-En). Written shortly after her longtime band announced their final show, she was struggling to find the next step in her career and personal life, while longing for a past sense of stability. “The song’s vigorous structure and deliberate rhythms convey that feeling of defeat and darkness, but with a sense of resolution and surrender through the guitar solo – a favorite moment on the record for me,” explains Katy. “While it started on shaky ground, coming out on the other side meant starting over and building something new.” ANOTHER ONE GAINED is a memoir of growth and reawakening by way of heart-wrenching transition and change – loss of her long-time band, end of a romantic relationship and finding herself amidst it all. “Set In Stone” premiered earlier on Guitar Girl Magazine. Katy Guillen & The Drive – Katy Gillen (drums) and Stephanie William (drums) – dropped their first EP, Dream Girl, right before the 2020 lockdown, leaving them without opportunities to perform live. In their basement rehearsal space, they spent the year learning home recording and pre-production techniques, gradually crafting a collection of songs from the ground up. The following April, they took the demos to producer/engineer Kevin Ratterman (My Morning Jacket, Heartless Bastards, Ray LaMontagne) at Invisible Creature Studio in Los Angeles. From their work with Ratterman emerged a batch of 15 songs. At the end of 2021, the band released the four-track Battles EP, offering listeners a darker, more simmering edge to their impelling indie-rock sound. Ten more would comprise Another One Gained, the full-length debut due August 19, 2022. Previously Katy Guillen & The Drive released BATTLES EP on December 17, 2021, Recorded at Invisible Creature Studio in Los Angeles, CA. Engineered and mixed by Kevin Ratterman. Produced by Kevin Ratterman, Katy Guillen, and Stephanie Williams. Mastered by Shelley Anderson at Black Lab Mastering in Louisville, KY. All songs written by Katy Guillen and Stephanie Williams. Katy Guillen on vocals, guitar, bass, & keyboarda. Stephanie Williams on drums & percussion. Additional keys and programming by Kevin Ratterman. Album design and photography by Morgan Jones. This is a follow up to Katy Guillen & The Drive’s 7-song EP, DREAM GIRL, released March 20, 2020. Katy Guillen & The Drive, is a project dedicated to Guillen’s songwriting that is founded on the creative spark and chemistry between Katy Guillen & Stephanie Williams. With Guillen on guitar & vocals and Williams on drums, the two sculpt a sound that recalls bands like Led Zeppelin, The Bangles, and Band of Skulls. In 2012, Guillen & Williams formed Katy Guillen and The Girls, and began to build a foundation of touring and recording that carried them through six years and produced three full-length albums: Katy Guillen & the Girls, Heavy Days, and Remember What You Knew Before. Between 2012 and 2018, they traveled the United States extensively, performed at the International Montreal Jazz Festival, toured Sweden, and supported major acts like The Doobie Brothers, Robin Trower, and Heartless Bastards. In these 6 years playing together, Guillen & Williams created a dynamic, sound informed by Guillen’s mesmerizing, emotive guitar style and poignant arrangements, and an equally captivating live show that showcased Williams’ technical, melodic style, resulting in a powerful on-stage chemistry. In addition to the compelling synergy formed by years of playing together, the two developed a method of working together on Guillen’s songs that only deepened their artistic connection, propelling them to forge a path to a new plateau in their music. KG & The Drive push ahead with a melodic, heavy, and soulful sound while maintaining the edge of the artist’s rock ‘n’ roll and blues roots. Katy Guillen joined us on WMM on March 18, 2020. Katy Guillen & The Drive opened for FANNY for their one-night-only reunion concert from Fanny+ (June Millington, Brie Howard-Darling, Patti Quatro, and Mia Huggins) at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave, KCMO, on October 5, 2022. http://www.katyguillenmusic.com]
[Katy Guillen plays Boulevardia, on Friday, June 16, a 7:10 PM – Propaganda 3 Park Stage]
11:27 – Underwriting
11:28 – Pledge Break #5
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt & Nico Gray.
90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio offers loads and loads of information about what is going on in the community. Not only does this show interview 150 guest each year, not only do we play nearly 900 different songs with more than half of those being locally produced, but we also shine a light on area not-for-profit theatre companies, art museums & galleries, area festivals, service organizations, area record labels and record stores, the area music scene, arts scene, theatre scene, literary arts scene, political action scene.
In just this past year, we’ve featured segments shining a light on:, The Kauffman Center for The Performing Arts, UMKC Conservatory of Music, Owen Cox Dance Group, KC Bass Workshop, The Record Machine, Mills Record Company, Records With Merritt, High Dive Records, Center Cut Records, Manor Records, Lost Cowgirl Records, KC Irish Fest, The Crossroads Music Fest, MixMaster Music Conference, Too Much Rock, Midwest Music Foundation, Apocalypse Meow, filmmaker Morgan Cooper, Charlotte Street Foundation, Inter Urban Arthouse, Lemonade Park, Weights and Measure Sound Lab, Innovation Festival, Bio Kansas, Les Bons Bons Electriques, Outer Reaches Fest, The Greater Philipino Association of Kamsas City, Queer Narratives Fest, No Devide KC, Boulevardia, Gay Pride, Folk Alliance International, The Band That Fell To Earth.
11:35
The War and Treaty – “Take Me In” from: Hearts Town / Rounder Records / September 25, 2020 [The War and treaty released their last album, LOVER’S GAME on March 10, 2023, on Mercury Nashville Records. We first met The War and Treaty right before their Official Showcase at Folk Alliance International Conference on Friday, February 16, 2018. We first played them on February 7, 2018. The War and Treaty released their full length debut album, “Healing Tide” on August 10, 2018. Michael Trotter Jr & Tanya Blount-Trotter are from Albion, Michigan. For Michael Trotter Jr., the journey began in 2004, when he arrived in Iraq, an untested soldier stricken by fear and self-doubt. His captain made it his personal mission to see to Trotter’s survival. The unit was encamped in one of Saddam Hussein’s private palaces, and in a forgotten corner in its basement, they found a black upright piano that once belonged to the dictator himself. When Trotter shared the fact he could sing, he was encouraged to teach himself to play piano on that confiscated keyboard. “I wrote my first song after that captain was killed,” Trotter recalls. “I sang it for his memorial in Iraq.” Soon after it became his mission to sing at the memorial services for those that had fallen. For the next three years, he sang songs that brought solace and comfort to the members of his unit. His efforts eventually garnered wider recognition as well. He came in first place in “Military Idol,” the army’s version of “American Idol,” during a competition held in Baumholder, Germany. Following his discharge, he was featured on the Hope Channel program “My Story, My Song.” Then he met Tanya Blount. Blount’s musically influences include Mahalia Jackson, Sister Odette and Aretha Franklin. The two fell in love, got married and used the experiences they had gained to create a new musical collaboration. The couple then secured the services of musicians whose skills add a distinctive sound to The War and Treaty’s blend of roots music, blue grass, folk, gospel and soul. Their 2017 EP Down to the River was released July 21, 2017. Recorded in Albion, Michigan, Down to the River boasts a sound that’s both stirring and sensual, driven by joy, determination and an unceasing upward gaze. The music is visceral but never morose, flush with emotion but void of despair… a style that touches on a variety of genres, but never finds itself confined to anyone. The arrangements are uncluttered– harmonies, basslines, guitar and mandolin licks, settle drum patterns and keyboards create an immensely moving soundscape — but the sentiments and emotions are fully realized and soar with a steady, chilling assurance. “The recording process wasn’t like anything I ever experienced,” Tanya recalls. “This EP has allowed me to breathe musically. I feel like all I have wanted to express for the past ten years has come forth with what we’ve done. The combination of heart, soul and the overwhelming amount of love that Michael and I have for one another comes across in this record.“ “I was sitting on the banks of the Euphrates River in Baghdad dreaming about one day being able to play and sing professionally for people all around the world,” Michael reflects. “As we recorded our music, I constantly had flashbacks of those desert dreams. I thought to myself that this is actually the perfect ending to usher in a new beginning in my life.” ]
[The War and Treaty play Boulevardia Friday, June 16, 2023, at 7:50 PM, Visit Missouri Grand Stage.]
11:39 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting.
Caley Rose – “Feels Like A Weekend” from: “Feels Like A Weekend” – Single / Caley Rose / May 12, 2021 [Performed By: Caley Rose // Written by: Caley Rose, Cassandra Jane Boettcher, Conway Morrison Anthony // Produced By: Brian Skeel // Caley Rose is a Billboard Charting Pop Singer & Songwriter whose music has been featured on Top 40 radio & used by Adobe, Lipton, & more. She empowers women & youth by partnering with organizations that uplift females and by speaking about confidence in schools across the country. She has received awards from the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, Mid Atlantic Song Contest.]
[Caley Rose plays Boulevardia, Friday, June 16, 2023, at 5:45 on the Quirk Terrace Stage.]
Steddy P – “Won’t Lay Down” from: Style Like Mine / Indyground Entertainment / September 11, 2009 [It’s no secret in the Show Me State, that oddly familiar eyeball tag in the alley, in the venue, green room, light pole and usual suspect area where maybe a bomber climb the pole for the highest point, that’s what is truly from here to fame and of the culture, something fought for, forever. Fathom the leap of faith, fright of flight only to be late to the fight, that’s our culture, that’s 2022, sans Pandemic. // The Indyground eyeball represents one of the most progressive and relevant Hip Hop labels and culture movements ever to come out of Missouri, by way of the point guard, patient progressive prototype and proud parent, Steddy P, of Indyground Entertainment. // The original self-proclaimed OG Gonzo Rapper is armed with one of the livest progressively rooted rap shows in the business, offering his latest album, SOS: Toxic from the Indyground label.]
[Steddy P plays Boulevardia, Friday, June 16, 8:15 PM – Quirk Terrace Stage.]
11:47 – Pledge Break #6
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt, & Nico Gray.
KKFI offers 24-7 programming, and YOU (the listener), basically get all of this amazing programming for “free.” I, for one, love that I can turn on my radio, or computer device, and tune into the 90.1 FM’s 100, 000 watt, crystal-clear signal, and hear the music, information, news, entertainment, events, and stories, that I really cannot find anywhere else. 90.1 is my comfort, my special companion, my interesting friend, introducing me to all kinds of new & local music, as well as the news & information without the intrusion of commercials. It is radio brought to YOU by real people, who create these shows out of love, and are guided by KKFI’s noble mission that “seeks 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.”
Driving in your car, at the office, at the gym, in your garage, in your cubicle, in your artspace, on your iPod, at your construction site, in your kitchen, in your barn, YOU can take 90.1 with you, as your companion. 90.1 FM is generally a good date. Good for a few laughs, fun to dance with, always interested in good conversation. Isn’t 90.1 FM KKFI worth a few dollars a day, or a week? So many people tune in to http://www.kkfi.org everyday, but studies show, that less than 1 percent actually donate to keep this miracle of broadcasting alive. Your support means that you will help bring this programming to folks who could not donate at this time, for whatever the reason.
Between two On-Air Spring Fundraiser Shows and our Facebook Fundraiser, we raised $4742.00 from 59 Donors!!! Thank you all!!!!
Marion Merritt, Nico Gray, Chris Haghirian, Thank You! Thank you to everyone who donated! For WMM
I’m Mark Manning. Thanks for listening!
11:54
Zion Isaiah – “Bad Habits” from: “Bad Habits” – Single / Zion Isaiah /May 5, 2023 [21 year old Zion Isaiah released the single “Medicine” on January 17, 2023. Zion released “21” on October 28, 2022. Calla released the single “you and i (feat. Zion Isaiah & Hannah You) on June 15, 2022, on Memesquirt Records. Zion Isaiah released the single “So Harsh” on May 6, 2022. Zion Isaiah released the single “Oasis” on January 22, 2022. Zion Isaiah released the single “Tired of Missing You” on November 12, 2021. Zion Isaiah released the single, “Drive (feat. Painter Boy)” on August 13, 2021. Kansas City, Missouri based Zion Isaiah works at JHS Pedals, studies at Johnson County Community College, and Went to Kansas City Christian School. More info at: http://www.facebook.com/zeeon.boklender.%5D
[Zion Isaiah plays Boulevardia on Saturday, June 17, at 3:15 PM on the Quirk Terrace Stage]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on WMM on June 21, is Make Music Day!Jasswill play live in our 90.1 FM Studios! We also welcome Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark who’ll share tracks from the second half of their full album, Cindergarden, to be released on Wednesday June 21. Plus, in our 2nd hour we welcome Calvin Arsenia who share details about his new album Paradise.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
WMM Serves Music of Boulevardia + Chris Haghirian + Marion Merritt & Nico Gray
Big Freedia
WMM plays music of the bands and artists, from the lineup for the upcoming 8th annual Boulevardia Beer & Music Festival including: Jason Isbell, The Beths, The War and Treaty, Big Freedia, Katy Guillen & The Drive, Hembree, Kat King, Caley Rose, FlareThaRebel, The Salvation Choir, Steddy P, Zion Isaiah, Cimafunk, Surfaces, and grandson.
At 10:00 Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share details about Boulevardia 2023, Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17, at Crown Center, 2396 Grand Boulevard, with 45 bands, 15 DJs, on 5 stages, with nearly 50 Brewing Companies, dozens and dozens of Restaurants & Food Trucks, Multiple merchants in the Makers Market, plus a Podcast Stage, a Legacy Skating Party, The Silent Disco, and various VIP Experiences. The two-day urban street festival is near the intersection of Pershing and Grand Boulevard, encompassing Crown Center and Washington Square Park. The event features a craft beer and food sampling experience and music, as well as interactive activities, entertainment, and shopping, all in a unique urban setting. http://www.boulevardia.com
Chris Haghirian is host & Producer of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 PM, on 90.9 The Bridge. Chris worked for The Kansas City Star for over 20 years. Chris studied Journalism / Advertising at The University of Kansas. Chris also studied Photography at Kansas City Art Institute. Chris works for Spray KC. Chris organizes multiple concert series throughout the metro, and music stages for The Plaza Art Fair, The Innovation Fest, and The Middle of The Map Fest.
Mark welcomes Guest Co-Hosts, Marion Merritt of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business in KCMO, and Nico Gray, Host & Producer of “Radio Nicopisa” broadcast on Thursdays 12:00 AM to 2:00 AM on 90.1 FM KKFI. Marion and Nico will encourage our wonderful listeners to call 888-931-0901, or visit http://www.kkfi.org to donate in support 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio during our Spring Fund Drive Show.
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 7, 2023
WMM plays The MidCoast Sound + IVORY BLUE + Mike McCoy + A Lou Jane Temple Tribute
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Calvin Arsenia – “Tip Toe” from: Cantaloupe / Center Cut Records / September 15, 2018 [Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey really began when he moved to the KC suburb of Olathe, teaching himself the guitar, and eventually the harp. He learned his signature instrument at the age of 20 after he couldn’t find a harpist as determined as him to meld folk, rock, classical, rap and R&B into the irresistible fusion which has become his calling card in KC and beyond. His passion for stretching the boundaries of musical expression saw him transform a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Festival early in his career into a life-changing music mission, with 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 whose impassioned and conceptual stage shows (regularly sold-out in Kansas City, currently catching fire on the West Coast with a diverse following across Europe), are collaborative, costumed-culture-bridging spectacles which In KC Magazine has hailed as ‘equal parts opera, symphony, musical theatre, rock show, all built around its creator: a charismatic 6-foot-6-inch harpist with a natural stage command and knack for gilding gold and painting lilies.’ Calvin released his EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. On February 14, 2017 Calvin released his critically acclaimed full length debut, Catastrophe. Calvin Arsenia premiered these songs in a live show at recordBar in November 2016 in a stage show that involved a company of 50 people, dancers, stilt walkers, special lighting, back up singers, guest artists. Calvin’s 2018 national debut, Cantaloupe, September 15, 2018 on Center Cut Records, has been acclaimed for melding diverse textures into an alluring signature sound for the adventurous artist. On June 28, 2019 Calvin released Honeydew, an EP including a remix of three songs from Cantaloupe. On Dec. 13, 2019 Calvin released his full length Christmas album “all is calm.” Since 2014 we have been celebrating the music of Calvin Arsenia. He has played Folk Alliance International, Kansas City Fringe Fest, The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, The Kauffman Center For The Performing Arts, The Middle of the Map Fest., The Folly Theatre. Calvin is a graduate of Artist INC. ][Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott.]
[Calvin Arsenia plays Crossroads Hotel rooftop concert series at The Percheron on June 7, at 8:00 PM)
Heidi Lynne Gluck – “All I See Is Magic” from: “All I See Is Magic” – Single / Lotuspool Records / May 25, 2023 [Cowritten with Kenny Childers. From her upcoming full length album, MIGRATE OR DIE, to be released July 7, 2023. Heidi Lynne Gluck released the singles: “I’m Not Free” on June 2, 2023 and “Skyscraper” on June 7, 2023. Lawrence, Kansas based Heidi Lynne Gluck is a songwriter, singer and multi-instrumentalist originally from the middle of Canada. After transplanting herself from the plains of Manitoba to the midwestern United States, Heidi quickly became an in-demand player, performing on stage and in the studio both as a solo artist and with renowned musicians including Juliana Hatfield & Some Girls, Margot & The Nuclear So and Sos, Lily & Madeleine, The Pieces, The Only Children, and others. Heidi Lynne Gluck joined us live on WMM on June 8, and August 24, 2016. Heidi Lynne Gluck released her critically acclaimed album, PONY SHOW through Lawrence based Lotuspool Records on August 26, 2016. This was the follow-up to her critically acclaimed release THE ONLY GIRL IN THE ROOM, released April 28, 2015. Heidi Lynne Gluck released the 8th edition of the Too Much Rock, limited edition, 7” vinyl Single Series on August 3, 2018, featuring her original song, “Party Line.” and the B-side, “Good Guys and Bad Guys” a new version of Camper Van Beethoven song. Heidi Lynne Gluck also plays with the band the Roseline and was a featured vocalist on “Beauty in the Distance” with Asterales. Heidi recently released two new singles with Tom Brosseau, “Sunflower” on Dec. 15, 2022, and “Under African Skies” on Feb. 17, 2023.]
[Heidi Lynne Gluck will join us on WMM on July 12, 2023 to share details about her new album MIGRATE OR DIE.]
10:06 – Intro / Pledge Break #1
Today WMM MM Celebrates The MidCoast Sound with music from Teri Quinn, Shy Boys, Ebony Tusks, The Creepy Jingles, IVORY BLUE, Psychic Heat, Flutienastiness, The ACBs, and Mike McCoy’s Trompe L’oeil. We’ll also play from Nirvana, Annie Ross, and Frenchie Davis. We started the show with Calvin Arsenia, and Heidi Lynne Gluck.
We are featuring music from musical artists playing all over Kansas City this week, including: High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 & 10; KC PrideFest & Parade at Theis Park, June 9, 10, & 11; Crossroads Hotel rooftop concert series at The Percheron on June 7; An Ode to Defiance at The Black Box in West Bottoms on June 9; Arts In The Park, North Kansas City, June 9, 10 & 11; Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life at miniBar, June 11; and Nighthawk the bar below Hotel Kansas City.
Plus, in a few minutes we will present a very special Tribute to Lou Jane Temple who we lost last Monday, May 29.
At 11:00 we’ll talk with musician Mike McCoy who will share details about the Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life, at miniBar, 3810 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, on Sunday, June 11, at 8:00 PM featuring musical performances from Cher UK, The Utilitarians and more. Info at http://www.minibarkc.com
At 11:25 we’ll talk with IVORY BLUE about their brand new single, “Control” that was released May 26, 2023. IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM.
We take break to encourage YOU to support 90.1 FM KKFI. To help us is our friend…
Betse Ellis. Originally from Fayetteville, Arkansas, Betse received her Bachelors of Arts in Music and a Bachelors of Arts in English, from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. She has been playing the Violin for over 40 years, with over 20 years playing fiddle and also working as a teacher of music. Betse was a founding member of the acclaimed internationally known band, The Wilders. Betse has released two solo records, and records and performs with her husband, multi-instrumentalist Clarke Wyatt, as Betse & Clarke. In 2020 they released their latest 8-song release, WINTER. In 2022 Betse joined the long-running country band The Starhaven Rounders, and recently joined a new string band, Little Miss Dynamite.
Betse Ellis, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Marion Merritt is our most frequent contributor to WMM, She grew up in Los Angeles, and St. Louis. She went to college in Columbia, Missouri. She studied art and musical engineering, and is a avid lover of classic films and punk rock music. She saw Talking Heads on their first U.S. tour when they played One Block West in 1978. For nearly 19 years she has been sharing her musical discoveries and information from her musically-encyclopedic brain on Wednesday MidDay Medley. With her partner Ann Stewart, Marion is the proprietor of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business at 1614 Westport Rd. in Kansas City, that features new vinyl releases, in-store performances,, and was once the location for a wedding. More information at: http://www.recordwithmerritt.com
Marion Merritt, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
10:14 – A Tribute to Lou Jane Temple by Mark Manning
Last Monday, May 29, 2023, at 6:30 PM we lost Lou Jane Temple, she was 79.
I first met Lou Jane Temple in 1987 at The Unicorn Theatre while working on “Kiss of The Spider Woman”. Lou Jane designed food props that the actors ate on stage, inside a jail cell, where the play took place.
Lou Jane asked me to come aboard her catering team. All of my experiences with Lou Jane were a brilliant adventure. I learned what was in the kitchen cabinets of Lennie Berkowitz, Sharon Hoffman, and KC Art Folk, who called upon Lou Jane, to make their parties special.
Lou Jane continually said to me, “Mark, you are gonna work in my restaurant when we open!” It was like being recruited for one of the most exciting jobs I ever had.
Cafe Lulu opened on my birthday, June 5, 1989. It was a Tuesday. People waited an hour for their food, but customers kept ordering champagne for the entire room.
Cafe Lulu closed on Lou Jane’s birthday, Monday, November 18, 1991. In 29 months, everything in my life changed. Through Lou Jane, I found my voice, I became an activist, I became a performance artist.
At Cafe Lulu I was a server, Wednesday thru Saturdays. On Sundays I helped Louie prepare food for the “Soul Food Sunday” cutting up chickens, boiling potatoes, snapping green beans, making molasses apple sauce.
Working with Lou on Sundays, where she and Pat Newman, and I would peel potatoes and listen to Rosemary Clooney music, crying. All three of us were having boyfriend problems.
After the first year at Cafe Lulu, Lou Jane, and Ron Megee and I created a Monday night show called “The Spoken Word.” Lou Jane envisioned a night where writers could share a chapter of a book they were writing, and while writers were big part of the show, eventually the Performance Artists took over.
I thought I was the only nerdy Queer in KC interested in performing about Queer and Trans issues, but through “The Spoken Word” I found my chosen family of other creatives, interested in Queer themes, Women’s Equality, Free Speech, and Disco. We were producing new works, things the professional companies wouldn’t ever do. We brought our ideas to the stage each week, to try them out in front of an audience, developing parts, that would eventually become plays. This is how Big Bang Buffet was born.
“The Spoken Word” was wild, packed, loud. High school kids from Johnson County sat drinking dark coffee and smoking cigarettes in a room full of artists, writers, and unsuspecting Monday diners. Lou Jane was our “Art Mother” feeding us all, giving us a job, reminding us to love each other.
At Cafe Lulu I created a performance character named Marlo “Low” Jones, the illegitimate “love chlld” of David Bowie and Lou Jane Temple. Louie had been a “Rock & Roll Caterer” for Chris Fritz Productions. It was easy to bend the timelines and imagine her making back stage food for Bowie on his first trip to the States in 1971. Like baby Lou Jane, after my character was born, they were put up for adoption, except Marlo was raised by Christian Fundamentalists, who Marlo escaped from, to then have a failed sex-change operation, leaving Marlo somewhere in the middle of male & female. (We did this long before John Cameron Mitchell ever created Hedwig & The Angry Inch.)
Cafe Lulu’s daytime bartender, Jimmy McCalister had an electric guitar he purchased from Carlos Alomar (one of Bowie’s longtime guitarists) and Jimmy along with Bryan Hicks on bass, became the band for Marlo “Low” Jones who sang “Breaking Glass” “Putting Out Fire” and “Let’s Dance.”
After Cafe LuLu closed, Lou Jane started writing mystery novels with food plots and recipes. The characters were based on real people from Cafe Lulu. Her first novel was titled “Murder on 39th Street,” but was renamed “Death By Rubarb.”
We kept the shows going, and from 1990 to 1995 we produced 80 different productions, full scale musicals, Free Speech extravaganzas. Ron Megee’s first musical “Nasty Sally Searsucker” was produced in Lou Jane’s loft space, in Columbus Park, where we built a stage, and seating for 77 people, for a Disco Opera that ran for 3-weeks, before being shut down by the Fire Marshall.
Lou Jane was the same age as my own mother, so it was easy for me to respect her incredible journey. Married as an early teen, giving birth to three amazing children. Taking correspondence classes through the television to get her degree. Moving to KC to go to the Art Institute. Reinventing herself over and over again, rising from the ashes like a phoenix. Just like Bowie.
Lou Jane taught me that you can tell aloty about what is going on in the world, by who is doing the dishes in the kitchen. At Cafe Lulu we had a Nicaraguan Freedom Fighter trained by the C.I.A
Lou Jane taught me that all the amateurs go out on Saturday Night.
Lou Jane taught me that Art is Everywhere.
Lou Jane taught me that women can seem superhuman, can be many things all at once, and that they don’t have to wait for someone’s permission to live their life freely, openly, doing what they love.
I will miss Lou Jane so much, but she is inside of me. She is in my heart. She is my Art Mother.
There will never be another Lou Jane Temple, ever ever again!!
10:19
Nirvana – “All Apologies” from: In Utero / Geffen Records / September 21, 1993 [ written by vocalist and guitarist, Kurt Cobain. It appears as the 12th track on the band’s third and final studio album, In Utero The song closes the American version of the album. On December 6, 1993, “All Apologies” was released as the second single from In Utero, as a double A-side with the song, “Rape Me”. It was Nirvana’s final single before Cobain’s suicide in April 1994. “All Apologies” became the third Nirvana song to top the Modern Rock chart, and reached number 32 on the UK Singles Chart. It was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 1995, and won a BMI award for most played song on American college radio during the eligible period from 1994 to 1995. It was also included on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “The Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll”. // “All Apologies” was written by Cobain in 1990. In a 2005 interview with Wes Orshoski of Harp, Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl recalled that the song was “something that Kurt wrote on [a] 4-track in our apartment in Olympia. I remember hearing it and thinking, ‘God, this guy has such a beautiful sense of melody, I can’t believe he’s screaming all the time.'” According to Cobain’s manager Danny Goldberg in his 2008 memoir Bumping into Geniuses, Cobain “played the Beatles song ‘Norwegian Wood’ over and over, hour after hour” while writing the song. // “All Apologies” was first recorded in the studio by Craig Montgomery at Music Source Studios in Seattle, Washington on January 1, 1991. This version, described by music journalist Gillian G. Gaar as “having a more upbeat pop-folk sound” than later versions, featured bassist Krist Novoselic accompanying Cobain on guitar, playing seventh chords behind the guitar riff, and Grohl’s drumming accented by a tambourine. The song was first performed live at the Wolverhampton Civic Hall in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, England on November 6, 1991. // Scott Litt was hired to remix “All Apologies,” along with “Heart-Shaped Box” and later “Pennyroyal Tea,” due to concerns by the band that the vocals and bass were not loud enough in the original mixes by Steve Albini. // The second and final studio version of “All Apologies” was recorded by Steve Albini at Pachyderm Studios in Cannon Falls, Minnesota in February 1993, during the recording sessions for In Utero. The song, at that point tentatively titled “La La La,” was recorded on February 14, the second day of the sessions. // The recording features cello by Kera Schaley, a friend of Albini’s who at the time played in the Chicago band, Doubt. Schaley had initially been asked by Albini to compose a cello part for the song “Dumb,” and after hearing what she had written, Cobain asked her to “play around with ‘All Apologies.'” As she recalled in a 2010 interview with Swan Fungus, “Most of the cello on that was me just messing around and then Kurt had me learn one specific line that he wanted everyone to be playing the same thing on. I sort of thought they were going to scrap the cello on that one, but it stayed in.” // Albini was pleased with the recording, saying that he remembered “really liking the sound of that song as a contrast to the more aggressive ones” and that “it sounded really good in that it sounded lighter, but it didn’t sound conventional. It was sort of a crude light sound that suited the band.” In a 1993 Rolling Stone interview, Cobain told David Fricke that songs such as “All Apologies” and “Dumb” represented “the lighter, more dynamic” sound that he wished had been more prominent on previous Nirvana albums. // The band eventually elected to remix “All Apologies,” along with the album’s lead single “Heart-Shaped Box,” due to concerns that the vocals and bass were not loud enough in Albini’s original mixes. In a 1993 Guitar World interview, Cobain explained to English journalist Jon Savage: “[The quieter songs on In Utero] came out really good, and Steve Albini’s recording technique really served those songs well; you can really hear the ambience in those songs. It was perfect for them. But for “All Apologies” and “Heart-Shaped Box” we needed more. My main complaint was that the vocals weren’t loud enough. In every Albini mix I’ve ever heard, the vocals are always too quiet. That’s just the way he likes things, and he’s a real difficult person to persuade otherwise. I mean, he was trying to mix each tune within an hour, which is just not how the songs work. It was fine for a few songs, but not all of them. You should be able to do a few different mixes and pick the best.” // The two songs were remixed by Scott Litt, chosen due to his work with American rock band R.E.M., in May 1993 at Bad Animals in Seattle, Washington. A third song, “Pennyroyal Tea,” was remixed by Litt in November 1993, in preparation for its release as a single. Novoselic defended the band’s decision to remix “All Apologies” and “Heart-Shaped Box” by calling them “gateways” to the more abrasive sound of the rest of the album, and that once listeners played the record they would discover “this aggressive wild sound, a true alternative record”. // According to Goldberg in his 2019 Cobain biography Serving the Servant, Cobain was “euphoric” after hearing Litt’s mix of “All Apologies,” the first of the two songs initially remixed. // On November 18, 1993, Nirvana performed an acoustic version of “All Apologies” during their MTV Unplugged performance at Sony Music Studios in New York City. This version of the song featured Pat Smear on second guitar and Lori Goldston on cello. // “All Apologies” was performed for the final time live at Nirvana’s last concert, at Terminal Einz in Munich, Germany on March 1, 1994. // Cobain dedicated “All Apologies” to his wife, Courtney Love, and their daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, during the band’s appearance at the Reading Festival in Reading, England on August 30, 1992. “I like to think the song is for them,” he told Michael Azerrad in the 1993 biography, Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana, “but the words don’t really fit in relation to us…the feeling does, but not the lyrics.” Cobain summarized the song’s mood as “peaceful, happy, comfort – just happy happiness.
Annie Ross – “Twisted” from: King Pleasure Sings / Annie Ross Sings / Prestige / 1958 [Annabelle McCauley Allan Short was born July 25 1930 in Surrey, England, She passed away on July 21, 2020 in NYC. She was known professionally as Annie Ross, was a British-American singer and actress, best known as a member of the jazz vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross. Ross was born, the daughter of Scottish vaudevillians John “Jack” Short and Mary Dalziel Short (née Allan). Her brother was Scottish entertainer and theatre producer and director Jimmy Logan. She first appeared on stage at age three.At the age of four, she travelled to New York by ship with her family; she later recalled that they “got the cheapest ticket, which was right in the bowels of the ship”. // Shortly after arriving in the city, she won a token contract with MGM through a children’s radio contest run by Paul Whiteman. She subsequently moved with her aunt, Scottish-American singer and actress Ella Logan, to Los Angeles, and her mother, father and brother returned to Scotland. She did not see her parents again until fourteen years later. At the age of seven, she sang “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond” in Our Gang Follies of 1938, and played Judy Garland’s character’s sister in Presenting Lily Mars (1943). // At the age of 14, she wrote the song “Let’s Fly”, which won a songwriting contest and was recorded by Johnny Mercer and The Pied Pipers. // At the end of 10th grade, she left school, changed her name to Annie Ross, and went to Europe, where she established her singing career.[5] She changed her surname to Ross during the plane trip to Prestwick; in a 2011 interview, she said: “My aunt was very fanciful and she said I had an Irish grandmother called Ross, so that’s where that surname came from”. // In 1952, Ross met Prestige Records owner Bob Weinstock, who asked her to write lyrics to a jazz solo in a similar way to King Pleasure, a practice that would later be known as vocalese. The next day, she presented him with “Twisted”, a treatment of saxophonist Wardell Gray’s 1949 composition of the same name, a classic example of the genre. The song, first released in 1952 (later collected on the album King Pleasure Sings/Annie Ross Sings), was an underground hit, and resulted in her winning Down Beat magazine’s New Star award. // In February 1956, the British music magazine NME reported that Ross’s version of the song “I Want You to Be My Baby” was banned by the BBC due to the lyric “Come upstairs and have some loving”. / She recorded seven albums with Lambert, Hendricks & Ross between 1957 and 1962. Their first, Sing a Song of Basie (1957), was to have been performed by a group of singers hired by Jon Hendricks and Dave Lambert with Ross brought in only as vocal consultant. It was decided that the trio should attempt to record the material and overdub all the additional vocals themselves, but the first two tracks were recorded and deemed unsatisfactory so they ditched the dubbing idea. The resulting album was a success, and the trio became an international hit. Over the next five years, Lambert, Hendricks & Ross toured all over the world and recorded such albums as The Hottest New Group in Jazz (1959), Sing Ellington (1960), High Flying (1962), and The Real Ambassadors (1962), written by Dave Brubeck and featuring Louis Armstrong and Carmen McRae. // Ross left the group in 1962. In 1964 she opened a nightclub in London. Annie’s Room hosted Joe Williams, Nina Simone, Stuff Smith, Blossom Dearie, Anita O’Day, Jon Hendricks, and Erroll Garner. // Her adulthood film roles included Liza in Straight On till Morning (1972), Claire in Alfie Darling (1976), Diana Sharman in Funny Money (1983), Vera Webster in Superman III (1983), Mrs. Hazeltine in Throw Momma from the Train (1987), Rose Brooks in Witchery (1988), Loretta Cresswood in Pump Up the Volume (1990), Tess Trainer in Robert Altman’s Short Cuts (1993), and Lydia in Blue Sky (1994). She also appeared as Granny Ruth in the horror films Basket Case 2 (1990) and Basket Case 3: The Progeny (1991). She also had a bit part in Robert Altman’s The Player in 1992. Ross also starred in Scottish Television’s comedy-drama Charles Endell Esquire (1979). // She provided the speaking voice for Britt Ekland in The Wicker Man (1973), and Ingrid Thulin’s singing voice in Salon Kitty (1976). On stage, she appeared in Cranks (1955; London and New York City), The Threepenny Opera (1972), The Seven Deadly Sins (1973) at the Royal Opera House, Kennedy’s Children (1975) at Arts Theatre, London, Side by Side by Sondheim, and in the Joe Papp production of The Pirates of Penzance (1982). // In 1949, Ross had a brief affair with drummer Kenny Clarke. This affair produced a son, Kenny Clarke Jr. (born 1950), who was raised by Clarke’s brother and his wife. During her time with Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, she became addicted to heroin and in the late 1950s had an affair with the comedian Lenny Bruce, who was also having drug problems. By 1960, Carol Sloane was substituting for her on tour. After a performance by the trio in London in May 1962, she remained in London to confront her drug addiction. // In 1963, she married actor Sean Lynch; they divorced in 1975, and he died in a car crash soon afterwards. By that time, she had also lost her home and declared bankruptcy. // She became a United States citizen in 2001. // Ross died in New York City on 21 July 2020 from emphysema and heart disease, four days before her 90th birthday. // Ross received the ASCAP Jazz Wall of Fame award (2009),[2] the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters’ Award (2010),[4] and the MAC Award for Lifetime Achievement (2011). // In July 2006 a one-woman play entitled TWISTED: The Annie Ross Story by Brian McGeachan premiered at The Space Theatre in London, starring Verity Quade. It focused on her stormy relationship with her aunt, Broadway legend Ella Logan, her brief affair with the comedian Lenny Bruce and her addiction to heroin. The play transferred to the Brockley Jack Theatre in London that same year, with Ross being played by Betsy Pennington. // A documentary about Ross’s life, entitled No One But Me, premiered at the Glasgow Film Festival in 2012.]
10:26 – Pledge Break #2
Our WMM Spring Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt and Betse Ellis
Today on WMM we are celebrating the MidCoast Sound with 11 of our Favorite Musical Artists from the MidCoastal Region of KC, Lawrence, and all. 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 and KKFI are committed to featuring artists under-represented in other media, and that includes the music community that lives within Kansas City and Lawrence and the area radiance of our 100 watt signal. The story of Kansas City’s Arts and Music Community is our primary objective on WMM, where for over 19 years we have shined a light on this music and the artist who create it and that story also include the music labels who help get this music out into the community and beyond Kansas City. That story also includes the recording studios where this music is engineered and mastered.
Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM was the first radio show and first radio station to ever play many amazing musical artists. WMM was the first to play the recordings of: Calvin Arsenia, and Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear, and Krystle Warren, and The Black Creatures and KD Kuro, The Shy Boys, Ivory Blue, The Salvation Choir. We were the first to interview these artists live on the radio and bring their music to a wider audience.
WMM Plays New & MidCoastal Releases. Timothy Finn Kansas City area music writer named WMM “The Best Place to Hear Local Music on the Radio.” and the Best Place to hear area musicians talk about their music.
10:34 – Underwriting
10:35 – Bands from High Dive Record’s 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 & 10
It all started back in 2013 with the release of ACBs “Little Leaves” and 48 releases later, High Dive continues. To celebrate this crazy milestone High Dive Records are throwing a 2 night party at Recordbar on June 9 and 10. Stacking the bills with 5 great bands each night including a couple of reunion sets by some of your favorite High Dive Recording Artists.
Friday, June 9: Shy Boys / Arc Flash / Koney (ACBs) / Greg Wheeler & The Poly Mall Cops / The Creepy Jingles
Saturday, June 10: Fourth of July / Psychic Heat / Ebony Tusks / HXXS / Thimastr
Doors at 6:30 & Music at 7:00. 18+ event, at recordBar, 1520 Grand BLVD, KCMO
The ACBs – “Feel Winter” from: Little Leaves / High Dive Records / March 5, 2013 [The ACB’s third album and their first on High Dive Records and High Dive Records first ever release. Konnor Ervin on lead vocals, & guitar; Bryan McGuire on bass, Andrew Connor on guitar; Kyle Rausch on drums. Their songs have been featured on MTV’s The Inbetweeners, and Daytrotter. The title “Little Leaves” is a nod to frontman Konnor Ervin’s landscaping day job. The lead single, “Ocean” was released as a free download in late 2012, prompting Popmatters to declare the ACBs as one of its “Best Hopes to Break Out in 2013.”]
[Koney (ACBs) plays High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 with Shy Boys, Arc Flash, Greg Wheeler & The Poly Mall Cops, and The Creepy Jingles]
Shy Boys – “Keeps Me On My Toes” from: Shy Boys / High Dive Records. / January 17, 2014 By now the Shy Boys line-up consists of brothers Collin Rausch & Kyle Rausch, Konnor Ervin, Kyle Little and Ross Brown. But for their debut album Shy Boys the band consisted of Kyle Rausch, Collin Rausch and Konnor Ervin. Kyleand Konnor were band mates in The ACBs. Collin had been playing for years in the KC area including The Abracadabras, and The I’ms with Kyle. The three shared a love for 1960s era pop rock and soon started writing their own music. . The album received positive reviews and the single “Bully Fight” (originally released by The I’ms) was featured on Spin.com. In June 2014, the band recorded and released two more singles and one of them, “Life Is Peachy,” was featured on Stereogum. On April 4th, 2018, it was announced the band signed to Polyvinyl Record Co.]
[Shy Boys play High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 with Koney (ACBs), Arc Flash, Greg Wheeler & The Poly Mall Cops, and The Creepy Jingles]
Shy Boys / The ACBs / Ghosty / The I’ms / Fullbloods / Koney – Discography
The ACB’s / The ACB’s / July 10, 2007 [Debut from KC based 4-piece with Konnor Ervin on lead vocals, Bryan McGuire on bass, Matt Saladino on guitar, Corey Egan on drums & vocals. Written by, and arranged by Konnor Ervin. Produced by Tim Suttle. Recorded & mixed at Underdog Studio in Desoto, KS. Mastered at Euphonic Masters in Memphis, TN.]
The Abracadabras – Be Still, Be Cool / The Abracadabras / January 1, 2008 [5-piece KC band formed in the spring of 2007, with Jocelyn Olivia (John) Nixon on keyboards & vocals, Travis Mckenzie on lead guitar, Bobby (Wayne Hutcherson) Topaz on guitar & vocals, Collin Rausch on bass & vocals, and Kyle Rausch on drums & vocals.]
The ACBs – Stona Rosa / The ACBs / January 1, 2011 [After half of the band left to move to LA, Konnor Ervin and Bryan McGuire got help from: Andrew Connor of Ghosty, and Beau Bruns of Cowboy Indian Bear. All songs written by, and arranged, lead vocals & guitar by Konnor Ervin. Mike Nolte on bass, Bryan McGuire on bass & vocals, Andrew Connor on guitar & vocals, Beau Brus on drums. Kyle Rausch on vocals. Produced by Mike Nolte. Mastered by Roger Seibel Recorded at More Famouser Studios. Mixed at More Famouser Studios. Mastered at SAE Mastering.]
The I’ms – Second MIXES / Independent / 2011 [Collin Rausch and Kyle Rausch. Kyle Rausch also plays with The ACB’s. In 2011 on WMM we started playing songs from The I’ms, a duo made of up Collin and Kyle, who posted 6 of their self recorded songs on their facebook page. We included this informal release in our Top Ten of The 111 Best Recordings of 2011. 3 of the songs from The I’ms ended up being rerecorded for Shy Boys.]
Ghosty – GHOSTY / More Famouser Records – High Dive Records / April 17, 2012 [3rd full length release from Lawrence and KC area band. Ghosty is Andrew Connor, Mike Nolte an Bill Belzer who recorded their new album themselves over the last couple of years with help from David Wetzel, Josh Adams, Jake Blanton, Konnor Ervin, Ryan Connor, Kirsten Paludan, and Dan Talmadge. The new release was pressed on vinyl and available on LP and digital download. More info at ghostysounds.com.]
The ACBs – Little Leaves / High Dive Records / March 5, 2013. [Konnor Ervin on lead vocals, & guitar; Bryan McGuire on bass, Andrew Connor on guitar; Kyle Rausch on drums. Their songs have been featured on MTV’s The Inbetweeners, and Daytrotter. The title “Little Leaves” is a nod to Konnor Ervin’s landscaping day job. The lead single, “Ocean” was released as a free download in late 2012, prompting Popmatters to declare the ACBs as one of its “Best Hopes to Break Out in 2013.”]
Shy Boys – Shy Boys / High Dive Records / January 17, 2014 [Debut release. Brothers Collin Rausch, Kyle Rausch, and friend and roommate Konnor Ervin, are members of this KC based trio. Collin and Kyle’s father was a High School band director and music teacher. Konnor Ervin is the lead singer and songwriter of The ACBs, where Kyle also plays drums. The 10 song release had two singles premiered by Stereogum. “Keeps Me On My Toes” was a song Collin wrote in 15 minutes while his girlfriend was in the shower. The album was recorded at West End Studio, over two-weekends.]
Shy Boys – “Life is Peachy” – Single Release / High Dive Records / July 15, 2014 [Stereogum has premiered the band’s new song, “Life Is Peachy”, the A-side to their new 45 rpm, 7″ single coming from High Dive Records. Brothers Collin Rausch, Kyle Rausch, and roommate Konnor Ervin, are members of the Kansas City based band, Shy Boys. ]
Fullbloods – Mild West / High Dive Records / February 26, 2016 [Second full length release from Fullbloods: Ross Brown; Jared Tomasino; David Seume; and Bill Pollock. Recorded at Westend Studios in Kansas City, Kansas by Mike Nolte. Mixed by Fullbloods. Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. (Starfucker, Of Montreal).]
Shy Boys – Bell House / Polyvinyl Record Co. / August 3, 2018 [Shy Boys line-up consists of brothers Collin Rausch and Kyle Rausch, Konnor Ervin, Kyle Little and Ross Brown. The group formed shortly after the trio became roommates in 2012. Kyle Rausch and Konnor Ervin were already band mates in the indie-pop band The ACBs and Collin had been playing for years in the Kansas City area in various bands. The three shared a love for 1960s era pop rock and soon started writing their own music. In 2014 they released the self-titled Shy Boys on High Dive Records. The album received generally positive reviews and the single “Bully Fight” was featured on Spin.com
Shy Boys – Dim The Light / Brick By Brick – Singles / Polyvinyl Record Co. / Feb. 15, 2019 [Single release follow up to band’s 2nd album and Polyvinyl debut, Bell House. Shy Boys line-up consists of brothers Collin Rausch and Kyle Rausch, Konnor Ervin, Kyle Little and Ross Brown. Kyle Rausch and Konnor Ervin were already band mates in the indie-pop band The ACBs and Collin had been playing for years in the Kansas City area in various bands. The three shared a love for 1960s era pop rock and soon started writing their own music. In 2014 they released the self-titled Shy Boys on High Dive Records. The album received generally positive reviews and the single “Bully Fight” was featured on Spin.com. In June 2014 the band recorded and released two more singles and one of them, “Life Is Peachy,” was featured on Stereogum. On April 4th, 2018, it was announced that the band had signed to Polyvinyl Record Co.]
Shy Boys – Talk Loud / Polyvinyl Record Co. / September 25, 2020 [3rd album from the KC band Shy Boys. New music follow up to the Dim The Light / Brick By Brick, singles released February 15, 2019. Shy Boys released their 2nd album and Polyvinyl debut, Bell House on August 3, 2018. Shy Boys line-up consists of brothers Collin Rausch and Kyle Rausch, Konnor Ervin, Kyle Little and Ross Brown. Kyle Rausch and Konnor Ervin were already band mates in the indie-pop band The ACBs and Collin had been playing for years in the Kansas City area in various bands including The Abracadabras, and The I’ms with brother Kyle. The three shared a love for 1960s era pop rock and soon started writing their own music. In 2014 they released the self-titled Shy Boys on High Dive Records.]
Koney – Koney / High Dive Records / October 9, 2020 [from Lucas Wetzel’s Pitch Feature: “To bring the songs to life, Konnor enlisted brothers Collin and Kyle Rausch, his roommates in their ramshackle West Plaza house/practice space and his bandmates in chamber pop group Shy Boys. Ross Brown (of Fullbloods) played synthesizer and helped run sound, and multi-instrumentalist Kyle Little contributed on guitar. Fritz Hutchison and Andrew Connor also contributed on several tracks. Recording engineer Mike Nolte flew in from Portland to run the controls at Westend Recordings, and the group set up camp in the studio over a long snowy weekend in 2015.”
The Creepy Jingles – “Working Class Clown” from: TAKE ME AY MY WORDPLAY / High Dive Records / March 25, 2022 [From band’s 11-track, full-length debut, TAKE ME AT MY WORD PLAY. The Creepy Jingles are a Kansas City based, 4-piece rock and roll band that both honors and defies convention. Led by singer / song-writer Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, a transgender wordsmith who charms with razor wit and dazzles with her lyrical acrobatics. Nick Robertson on drums, Travis McKenzie on guitar, and Andrew Woody on bass guitar bring first class musicianship and creativity, helping Nixon paint the perfect picture of colors and sounds that don’t stay in the lines. Their new album, “Take Me at My Wordplay” is an eclectic blend of catchy Brit-Pop melodies that dance around the landscape of surf, NY garage rock, psychedelia and folk music. Paired up with lyrics centering on themes of identity, strained relationships, social media madness, meme magic, pandemic paranoia, paid off political pundits, backyard bullies and barking up the wrong tree. Everything and the kitchen sink or swim. No stoner left unturned. The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019. The release was in the top ten of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. ] The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019.]
[The Creepy Jingles play High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 with Koney (ACBs), Arc Flash, Greg Wheeler & The Poly Mall Cops, and Shy Boys]
Psychic Heat – “How Many Licks” from: Sunshower / High Dive Records / May 27, 2016 [Psychic Heat was created by Evan Herd & Tanner Spreer. After releasing their EP Lighter and Brighter in 2015 they quickly turned their attention to their first full length Sunshower being released through High Dive Records. Sunshower is Engineered by Ron Miller (Kid Congo and the Pink Monkey Birds) & mixed/mastered by Kliph Scurlock (previously of the Flaming Lips). Psychic Heat is: Steve/Evan Herd on guitar & vocals, Tanner Spreer on guitar & vocals, James Thomblison on bass, and Mark Rockwell on drums.]
[Psychic Heat play High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 10 with Fourth of July, Ebony Tusks, HXXS, and Thimastr.]
Ebony Tusks – “HDF” from: “HDF” – Single / High Dive Records / February 7, 2020 [This single came out nine months before Ebony Tusks released their full-length album, Heal Thyself on November 6, 2020 on High Dive Records. “HDF” is not included on the 12-track album. As with the single and on the album, all songs written and performed by Ebony Tusks unless otherwise noted. // All Songs engineered and mixed by George Henry Valyer IV at Rundown Studios in Topeka, Kansas and MalaMUTE Studios in East Lawrence, Kansas. Assistance provided by Nico Williams and Claire Kuner. // Conny Franko’s vocals on “You Runner” engineered by Keith Rodger and Rick Carson at Make Believe Studios in Omaha, Nebraska. // IK’s vocals on “Gang Signs” engineered by Derek Montgomery. // Stik Figa’s vocals on “Hell Above Or Here Below” engineered by Sean Patrick at Twelves Studios in Forth Worth, Texas. // Cello on “Heir Apparent” written and performed by Brail Watson. Rhodes and Moog on “Heir Apparent” written and performed by Daniel Bowersox. // All Songs mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering in Portland, Oregon. // Album cover art by Justin Bergin. Album cover photography by Rachel Lock. Album layout by Martinez Hillard. // Album insert photography by Ailecia Ruscin and LeRoy Pristach. // Ebony Tusks is Daniel Smith on DJ & Production, Geese Giesecke on vocals & Production, and Marty Hillard on vocals & Production. Martinez Hillard told Vivid Seats: “ I began EBONY TUSKS in 2009 after a difficult period that summer. I was living in the student ghetto near the University of Kansas in Lawrence. It was an eerily calm Friday night and I didn’t have any plans after work so I crashed. I woke up shortly after 9:00 pm because my door was being kicked in. I was beaten and robbed at gunpoint. Thankfully, two of my neighbors were close friends and called the police immediately. I had nightmares for years afterward that included many symbols I’ve come to associate with various religious practices. I also began writing raps for the first time in over a decade. I was working with a couple producers and we had our first show at a house venue called Pizza Power in October 2010. Both Daniel and Geese came into the fold within a couple years of that show.” Daniel Smith lives in Lawrence, Kansas. He was born in Berkeley California. He moved to Lawrence when he was a child. Hs father is a Professor at The University of Kansas. Daniel works the United Way of Douglass County. He helps to provide after school job-training programs for under-served youth. Nathan “Geese” Giesecke grew up in Olathe but now lives and works in Kansas City, MO. He was friends with Calvin Arsenia in High School. Geese works as a producer as GEESACE. He makes beats and you can find his music at http://soundcloud.com/geesace Nathan is also a lighting designer who jumped on stage to do back up vocals for Marty and ended up being in the band. Martinez Hillard is the main vocalist and lyricist for EBONY TUSKS. He raps under the moniker Bodye, (pronounced “body”). He also produces beats. Martinez lives in the Old Town neighborhood in downtown Topeka with wife and 5 year old daughter. Martinez was part of the super group Cowboy Indian Bear. Martinez was recently elected to serve as a board member for Friends of the Library for Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. As Marty told Johnson County Library, in a piece published April 27, 2018: “ It was a project I started with other producers back in 2010. I asked Daniel to DJ for me sometime in 2011-2012 and Geese joined not too far behind him. Daniel and I had become fast friends when I lived in Lawrence and he was the nicest, most easygoing DJ of the handful I knew. He made our shows a lot less stressful. Geese was and is a lighting technician for a number of our friends’ projects and that was how I made acquaintance with him, seeing him work for a band and asking if he’d do lights for an EBONY TUSKS concert. He eventually asked if he could be hypeman for us and he brought an new intensity.” EBONY TUSKS have been a band for over 11 years making hip hop in the Lawrence scene that includes Approach, Stik Figa, Heartfelt Anarchy, and Archetype are just a small fraction. With that said, the three of us are always having conversations about how other genres influence us personally. Post-rock, post-hardcore, industrial, indie rock, and electronic all factor in. Our tastes evolve naturally and we follow accordingly. Since the three members of EBONY TUSKS live in three separate cities: Kansas City, Lawrence and Topeka early on, they created a Dropbox folder to share demos with one another. And as they told Vivid Seat: “It also gave us a bit of language to use in building sounds independent of one another.” More info at: http://www.highdiverecords.com Members of Ebony Tusks joined us LIVE on WMM on February 19, and October 7, 2020.]
[Ebony Tusks play play High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 10 with Fourth of July, Psychic Heat, HXXS, and Thimastr.]
10:47 – Pledge Break #3
Our WMM Spring Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, and Betse Ellis
Our most played artists in 2022 were The Black Creatures. Wednesday MidDay Medley was the first radio show to play their music. They have been frequent guests on our show. The Black Creatures released their debut single “Mouth 2 Mouth” June 5, 2016. The Black Creatures released their self-produced, debut album, See No Evil, on December 6, 2017. The Black Creatures released their single Elements on February 14, 2018. Our playlists show that we first played The Black Creatures on March 14, 2018. Since that date we have championed this band. We first saw them live at InterUrban ArtHouse on July 10, 2019 as part of a Celebration of Queer Identity where Mark was also a performer. Their breakthrough album, WILD ECHOES, was self released by the band on September 30, 2019. WILD ECHOES was #2 on WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. WILD ECHOES was re-released and re-mastered by Center Cut Records in 2020 and named Album Of The Year from The Pitch Magazine for 2020. // Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott. // The Black Creatures released their new album By Thy Hand on Center Cut Records on August 12, 2022. // Jade and Xavier just completed performances in the world premiere of Christian A. Walker’s “What Came With Spring” for the Owen/Cox Dance Group October 7 thru 9 at City Stage Theatre, Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, KCMO. // Mark’s brief review: “Being named “Album of The Year” from The Pitch Kansas City was the recognition this young band deserved, because there is really no other band in Kansas City creating incredibly beautiful and painful protest songs in multi genre styles of beats, vocal styles, textures. The immediate personal and poetic lyrics of Jade Green and tribal, dance floor and soulful beats and melodies of Xavier bring the listener into a multicultural, mixed, gender fluid, soul celebration of life and an honest indictment of the racist, homophobic, and sexist world they are navigating through to survive. Listen carefully to these young music makers, they are wise beyond their years. They sound beautiful and speak the truth to power. They are beautiful. They are The Black Creatures.”
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.
Mike McCoy grew up in Hutchinson, Kansas. After graduating High school he moved to Kansas City. After his gap year ended he left KC to attend Texas Christian University. After college Mike returned to KC to work at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Mike has been making music for more than 30 years, playing country-roots to punk to performance art and power pop. Mike founded the KC band Cher UK in the mid 1990s and fronted the Black Rabbits of Lawrence, Kansas, and the Austin, bands: American People and The Service Industry. Mike is the founder of The North vs. South Music Festival. In 2019 Mike McCoy’s Trompe-l’œil released “Eyein’ Lies” one of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. Mike McCoy, lives in Austin Texas where he builds all kinds of cool things with his construction company.
Mike McCoy is here to share details about the Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life, at miniBar, 3810 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, on Sunday, June 11, at 8:00 PM featuring musical performances from Cher UK, The Utilitarians and Drop a Grand. Info at http://www.minibarkc.com
Mike McCoy Thanks for being with us on WMM.
Mike was on the show last on October 5, 2022 to talk abut a The Cher U.K. reunion Heather Grehan, and Lisa McKenzie a lineup that hadn’t played together since 1996. An early Red Decibel (Minneapolis record label) press kit described Cher U.K. The Cher U.K. reunion has special significance, as this group lineup hasn’t played together since 1996. An early Red Decibel (Minneapolis record label) press kit described Cher U.K.
Cher U.K. was signed to Red Decibel in 1993 after Brent Ashley, head of promotions at Red Decibel saw them in KC. Their first album, She’s a Weird Little Snack, was released on Oct. 12, 1993, followed by Go-Go Fish, released in Nov. 1994. While the albums featured such classics as “College Song,” “Go-Go,” and “Kibbles’n’ Bitz,” it’s the live shows that always attracted the most attention.
The Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life, is at miniBar, 3810 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, on Sunday, June 11, at 8:00 PM featuring musical performances from Cher UK, The Utilitarians and Drop a Grand. Josh Ybarra was the “life-partner” of Mark Reynolds who was the original bass player for Cher UK and played in several reunions.
Kansas native and Austin resident Mike McCoy is a man for all seasons. A gifted singer, composer, songwriter, social commentator and conceptual artist from the heartland, McCoy has been making music for more than 30 years, incorporating a whiplash array of styles and genres from country-roots to punk to performance art and power pop. All overlap in McCoy’s world. Mike founded the KC power-pop band Cher UK (Cargo/FistPuppet) & (Red Decibel/Columbia Records) in the mid 1990s and has fronted other quirky conceptual bands such as the Black Rabbits of Lawrence, Kansas, and two Austin critics’ darlings, the American People and the Service Industry.
Mike is also a prolific solo artist . A religion studies and art-history graduate of TCU, fund-raising researcher at Yale, a carpenter/designer in Austin, an online “word contortionist” and a former museum administrator in KC, McCoy’s truest calling is the crafting of songs. He’s a hayseed intellectual-philosopher whose compositions strike the right balance of plaintive and high-brow, sardonic and humble. McCoy brings a singular, poet’s sensibility to the music equation. He writes about a wonderful waitress in a rundown town who has the power to make or break your stay (“if you treat her well, you might get what you want…”), about an immigrant woman whose dreams of America lead her to a lonesome life as a domestic (“feather duster I believe her, no one sees the way I see her…”), about American apathy and how winter is a submarine (“winter is a submarine — I lay inside and I no longer dream…”).
In most of McCoy’s songs, there is something deeply wistful, despite the freighted narratives and their dizzying wordplay. He’s a serious guy and he writes about serious stuff. Yet in the lyrics and in the spaces between words and melody, you can almost hear that lone whistle blow in the dark of a heartlands night; you hear a style of writing that combines political commentary and snarky populism with an inextinguishable belief that somehow, with the right blend of gumption and fortitude, we humans might just pull off something good. He’s equal parts punk-rock-Americana — a strange brew of Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, John Mellencamp, Ramones and Burl Ives. But no matter in what incarnation you encounter Mike McCoy, you’ll find he’s driven by the same basic themes: ideas and ideals of humanity, principles and hopes, outrage and indignation, absurdism and dadaism, puns and poetry and parody, with a large dose of red-white-and-blue wishful thinking.
Mike has worked as a fund-raising researcher at Yale, and a carpenter and designer in Austin.
In 2004 Mike founded the North vs. South Music Festival, a bi-annual, bi-polar music festival designed to showcase independent rock along the I-35 corridor.
On October 17, 2012 Mike McCoy appeared on WMM to promote the Cher UK EP release of Boy Named Sue, released October 20, 2012 with the single. “Little Blue Soldier.” with Mike McCoy on Guitar & Vox, Mark Reynolds on Bass, and Bernie Dugan on Drums.
Mike McCoy Thanks for being with us on WMM.
Mike McCoy plays the Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life, partner go longtime friend, and bandmate, Mark Reynold, at miniBar, 3810 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, on Sunday, June 11, at 8:00 PM featuring musical performances from Cher UK, Drop a Grand, and The Utilitarians. Information at http://www.minibarkc.com
11:11
Teri Quinn – “Running Away” from: “Running Away” – Single / Teri Quinn / June 2, 2023 [Joining Teri on the track are: John O’keefe on bass, Ryan Smith on Drums, Landon Hambright on guitar. Produced and Engineered by Joel Nanos at Element Recording & Mastering Studios. Teri Quinn is a multi-instrumentalist whose primary songwriting instrument is the banjo. She uses the banjo as a way to create soundscapes drawing you in to her tales of wandering and self-discovery. In 2016, Quinn released her first EP ‘Moons and Meltdowns’ setting the gritty tone for her indie folk sensibilities. She was nominated for Best Musician for the 2018 Pitch Awards. // This single follows Teris earlier single release “Sweet Savannah” rom February 26, 2020 Produced and engineered by Chase Horseman at Element Recording Studios. Mastered by Joel Nanos at Element Recording Studios. For this recording: Landon Hambright on guitar, Matt Richey on drums, Joel Stratton on Wurlitzer, Molly Mclaughlin on alto flute, Chase Horseman on synth bass, and Teri Quinn on banjo and vocals. // Teri Quinn is a KC based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Teri moved to Kansas City in 2009 to study clarinet performance and Music Composition at the UMKC’s Conservatory of Music where she graduated in 2013. Teri released her debut EP, Moons and Meltdowns in 2017. Along with being a touring solo artists Teri has also played with Claire and the Crowded Stage, Abandoned Bells, True Lions, and Monta.]
[Teri Quinn plays ODE TO DEFIANCE at The Black Box, 1060 Union Avenue, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS on Friday, June 9, at 8:00 PM featuring Olive Ursula, Babydoll, AP the Poe t, She Speaks in Tongues, Taylor Rivera, and Teri Quinn with ritual, music poetry, performance, and video. A sacrilegious exploration of daily acts of defiance that break us out of boxes and binaries that hinder us from true liberation. The audience is encouraged to dress in goth attire and participate in juicy rituals.]
1:15 – Pledge Break #4
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt & Betse Ellis.
KKFI is an Independent, non-commercial radio station!
Along with our National Public Affairs shows like Democracy Now and Alternative Radio we offer more locally produced public affairs programs than anywhere else on the dial.
We offer programs specifically produced for the LGBTQIA Community, Women’s Issues, Native American News and Culture, Middle Eastern Music and Information, Latino Programming, African American Public Affairs and Community News, Labor and Worker’s Unions, our prison population and justice system, environmental programming, Visual and Literary Arts, and Performing Arts.
90.1 offers 80 different radio programs that are locally, produced, hosted, engineered and written by over 100 different people, who create content, and personally handcraft each show, each week. There are 64 local music shows and 21 locally produced News, Public Affairs, Arts & Talk shows.
You will not find this kind of representative diversity anywhere else on your radio dial. Or from any singular source on your computer. It is very special. It needs to be nourished and kept alive in a world of corporate, nationally owned, commercial or religious broadcasting.
Not only do we bring the most diverse and unfiltered news and information, but our musical playlists are deep, and comprehensive. In one week you can hear over 2000 different songs played, in Blues, Jazz, Folk, Hip Hop, Reggae, Classical, World, Americana, Southern Soul, Fusion, Soul, Rock, New Wave, Electronic, Native, Local, Old Timey, Rockabilly, Women’s, Children’s, Gospel, and Experimental.
With all of this, you hear the voices from the hundreds of KKFI volunteers, and thousands of guests from the community, who share their stories, broadcast live from our non-commercial, midtown studios, at 39th & Main, in the center of our metro, across two states, a collective of communities, and thousands of listeners. What is this worth to you?
11:22 – Underwriting
Ivory Blue – “Control” from: “Control” – Single / IVORY BLUE / May 26, 2023 [Follow up to the single “All Outta Love” from February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. // By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around Kansas City and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released. in 2015. IVORY BLUE released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on August 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on September 7, 2021. IVORY BLUE released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Red Light” on July 29, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Starlit Love Child” on October 28, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. More info at: https://linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic%5D
[IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM.]
11:26 – Interview with Ivory Blue
IVORY BLUE joins us to share details about their brand new single, “Control” that was released May 26, 2023. This new single follows, “All Outta Love” from February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM. More info at: linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic
Last time IVORY BLUE was with us on WMM was just before IVORY played ULAH Live Session, Thurs, March 16, 2023 at 7:30 PM at ULAH, 4707 Rainbow Blvd, Westwood, KS.
IVORY BLUE lived a nomadic existence until settling in Kansas City MO and becoming part of the local musical community. After winning a nationwide talent contest in 2017 Ivory Blue started having success with some national and international radio play which continues today.
Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families. before running away at 15.
Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying them Ivory KC, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender.
As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics.
By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around Kansas City and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released. in 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and got much attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017.
Ivory entered NeXt2Rock, a nationwide talent search with over 1800 artists/bands who applied to find fresh and promising rock artists.
The top 5 national bands battled it off for the win in Los Angeles CA at the legendary Viper Room, with judges Scott Borchetta (BMLG), John Varvatos (fashion designer), Steve Jones (Sex Pistols Guitarist and Host of “Jonesy’s Jukebox”), Desmond Child (Musician, producer), Chris Lord-Alge (producer), Ivory Blue won over the judges and became the grand prize winner! Ivory
Ivory won the contest and a one-year record deal with BMLG who re-released the song Ready Get Set from the 2015 EP. Ivory’s 2018 re-release of ‘Ready Get Set’ undauntedly received National and International airplay within weeks.
NeXt2Rock Judges Comments about Ivory Blue:
“You got star quality and a lot of potential” by Steve Jones (Sex Pistols Guitarist and Host of “Jonesy’s Jukebox” on KLOS (95.5) Los Angeles, CA, USA)
“Giving us the diamond in the rough we can only dream of, the foundation that’s built underneath it, that’s what music is made from. by Chris Lord-Alge (Engineer/Mixer).
“I love everything about you, you sing what you live, you’re fantastic” by Desmond Child (Musician \ Songwriter and Producer).
“We’ve been waiting for the WOW, and you are the WOW”, “You’re a true artist” by John Varvatos (Fashion Designer and Record Label Head)
“You exude artistry from the minute you step on that stage” by Scott Borchetta – Big Machine Label Group president and CEO.
“There’s something special about you”, “You’re a true artist” by Gavin Rossdale (British musician, singer, lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the rock band BUSH).
Ivory Blue has played Crossroads Music festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium.
IVORY BLUE started writing music at a very young age, creating their unique alt-rock sound, using a tape recorder to superimpose sounds that added to a song production. After starting performances in coffee shops and small venues, they began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, IVORY BLUE settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting a following for their strong vocals and deeply personal lyrics. On July 29th, 2022, and after studying the craft of recording and self- producing, this amazing singer-songwriter with a passionate love for everyone struggling through life, released their first full length album, COMPOUND LOVE. This was followed by their single, “Red Light” and “Starlit Love Child.”
Ivory Blue thanks for being with us on WMM.
[IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM.]
Ivory Blue – “Starlit Love Child” from: “Starlit Live Child’ – Single / Sound Ballistics Music & Publishing / October 28, 2022 [Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families. before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying them Ivory KC, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics.. // Ivory released the singles: “Elite Dreamland,” on Feb. 17, 2021, “Half a Life” on Sept. 20, 2021. Ivory Blue released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on August 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on September 7, 2021. Ivory Blue released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. Ivory Blue joined us on WMM on November 10, September 15, and July 28, in 2021. More info at: https://linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic%5D
[IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM.]
11:40 – Pledge Break #5
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt & Betse Ellis.
90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio offers loads and loads of information about what is going on in the community. Not only does this show interview 150 guest each year, not only do we play nearly 900 different songs with more than half of those being locally produced, but we also shine a light on area not-for-profit theatre companies, art museums & galleries, area festivals, service organizations, area record labels and record stores, the area music scene, arts scene, theatre scene, literary arts scene, political action scene.
In just this past year, we’ve featured segments shining a light on:, The Kauffman Center for The Performing Arts, UMKC Conservatory of Music, Owen Cox Dance Group, KC Bass Workshop, The Record Machine, Mills Record Company, Records With Merritt, High Dive Records, Center Cut Records, Manor Records, Lost Cowgirl Records, KC Irish Fest, The Crossroads Music Fest, MixMaster Music Conference, Too Much Rock, Midwest Music Foundation, Apocalypse Meow, filmmaker Morgan Cooper, Charlotte Street Foundation, Inter Urban Arthouse, Lemonade Park, Weights and Measure Sound Lab, Innovation Festival, Bio Kansas, Les Bons Bons Electriques, Outer Reaches Fest, The Greater Philipino Association of Kamsas City, Queer Narratives Fest, No Devide KC, Boulevardia, Gay Pride, Folk Alliance International, The Band That Fell To Earth.
11:47
Flutienastiness – “AlterEgo” from: This Is Me / Flutienastiness Entertainment / October 28, 2020 [Flutienastiness is the music and educational project of Amber Underwood who works as a band director in KC Public Schools and is a private flute instructor at REW Band & Instruments. Her style falls on the R&B, Pop, and Soul side of jazz, Amber Underwood is a vivid performer. Amber studied Education at Pittsburgh State University from 2010 to 2012. Amber lives in Shawnee, KS. The album was produced, mixed, & mastered by Desmond “D. Professor” Mason for Out D. Park Productions. All flutes by Amber Underwood. All tracks were composed collaboratively between Amber & Desmond. Amber writes: “This is album is a touch of all my feelings, life journeys and a inside look into Amber ‘Flutienastiness’ Underwood as a person beyond the stage. This album is for all the female artists & musicians who have been criticized or not excepted when it comes to their work, art or music and felt like they didn’t belong. ‘This Is Me’ is my testimony that all things are possible and not be scared to create your OWN lane.” More info at:www.flutienastiness.com.]
[Amber Flutienastiness plays Nighthawk, the bar below Hotel Kansas City at 13th & Baltimore, Friday, June 16, 2023.]
11:50 – Pledge Break #6
This is WMM’s Spring Fund Drive Show with Marion Merritt, & Betse Ellis.
THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! Between our On-Air donors this morning on Wednesday MidDay Medley, and our Facebook Fundraiser, we had 49 individuals that donated a total of $3162.00 in support of KKFI 90.1 FM! Thank you to Betse Ellis and Marion Merritt for Co-Hosting the show today!!! Thank you to all of the phone room volunteers and Darryl Oliver and J Kelly Dougherty at KKFI for all of your work!
11:54 – KC PrideFest & Parade on June 9, 10, and 11
Frenchie Davis – “Love’s Got A Hold On Me” from: “Love’s Got A Hold On Me” – Single / Frenchie Davis Music Group / September 4, 2013 [Franchell “Frenchie” Davis was born May 7, 1979, and is an American Broadway performer and a soul, dance/electronica, and pop singer. She first came to public attention in 2003 as a contestant on the singing competition show American Idol. Davis began performing in Rent on Broadway soon afterward, and was a member of the cast for four years. In 2011 Davis reached the top 8 on the first season of singing competition The Voice. Davis was born in Washington, DC and raised in Los Angeles, CA. She graduated from Howard University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.]
[Frenchie Davis plays KC PrideFest & Parade on June 9, 10, and 11. Headliners are Cazwell, Frenchie Davis, Brandon Stansell, and Muni Long, at Theis Park, 47th & Oak Street, KCMO, the massive park is just South of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, across the street from their lawn with the shuttlecocks. There’s also a big parade on Saturday, June 10 that begins in Westport, travels through the Plaza and ends at Oak and West 47th Ttreet at Thies Park.]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on WMM on June 14, Marion Merritt will be back with Nico Gray as our special Guest Co-Hosts, Also next week Chris Haghirian joins us for the entire show to share music and information about The Boulevardia Festival happening Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17 at Crown Center.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, June 7, 2023
WMM plays The MidCoast Sound + IVORY BLUE + Mike McCoy + A Lou Jane Temple Tribute
WMM Celebrates The MidCoast Sound with music from Calvin Arsenia, Heidi Lynne Gluck, Teri Quinn, Shy Boys, Ebony Tusks, The Creepy Jingles, IVORY BLUE, Psychic Heat, Flutienastiness, The ACBs, and Mike McCoy’s Trompe L’oeil. We’ll also play from Nirvana, Annie Ross, and Frenchie Davis.
WMM features music from musical artists playing all over Kansas City this week, including: High Dive Records 10th Anniversary Shows at recordBar June 9 & 10; KC PrideFest & Parade at Theis Park, June 9, 10, & 11; Crossroads Hotel rooftop concert series at The Percheron on June 7; An Ode to Defiance at The Black Box in West Bottoms on June 9; Arts In The Park, North Kansas City, June 9, 10 & 11; Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life at miniBar, June 11; and Nighthawk the bar below Hotel Kansas City. Plus,
Mark presents a very special Tribute to Lou Jane Temple.
At 11:00 Mark talks with musicians, longtime friends, and bandmates, Mike McCoy and Mark Reynolds who share details about the Josh Ybarra Celebration of Life, at miniBar, 3810 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, on Sunday, June 11, at 8:00 PM featuring musical performances from Cher UK, The Utilitarians and more. Information at http://www.minibarkc.com
At 11:25 we talk with IVORY BLUE about their brand new single, “Control” that was released May 26, 2023. This new single follows, “All Outta Love” from February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. IVORY BLUE plays ARTS IN THE PARK on the Main Stage, at 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City on Saturday, June 10 at 1:00 PM. More info at: linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic
AND, Marion Merritt of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business in KCMO, and Betse Ellis, critically acclaimed fiddler, singer, songwriter, and one half of Betse & Clarke join us as special Guest Co-Hosts to encourage our listeners to call 888-931-0901, or visit http://www.kkfi.org to support 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio during our Spring Fund Drive Show.
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Andrew Connor + Stephonne + Mica-Elgin Vi + musicbyskippy + Julia Reynolds
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
boygenius – “Not Strong Enough” from: the record / Interscope Records / March 31, 2023 [Debut studio album from indie rock supergroup formed by Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, & Lucy Dacus. Bridgers has called the formation of the group “kind of an accident,” wherein each of the members were simply fans of each other’s work and then became friends. Both Dacus and Bridgers had opened for Baker on separate tours in 2016, and they all ran in similar circles as young up-and-coming performers navigating the indie scene. // The three became close and shared their frustrations of constantly being compared to each other as “women in rock” despite their considerably different musical styles. Dacus has commented that the idea of women in music “should not be remarkable whatsoever,” with Bridgers adding, “it’s not a genre.” Each has spoken on the tendency of the music industry to pit women against each other, and the group was formed in part to reject this idea. “I hope people see the three of us and know there isn’t competition,” Dacus has said. “You don’t have to compete with your contemporaries. You can make something good with people you admire.” // Baker had joked to Dacus years before about a “pipe dream” that they could one day all form a band. The three decided to book a co-headlining tour in early 2018, and they originally planned to record a single or a cover version so that they could perform something together on stage Their self-titled debut EP was written and recorded in four days at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles and released on Oct. 26, 2018 on Matador Records. Following the release, in November 2018, Baker & Bridgers hit the road in North America for a co-headline tour, with Dacus opening. Each artist played her own individual set of tunes. The tour kicked off at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Nov. 4th, and traveled through the Northeast, Midwest, West Coast.]
Arlo Parks – “Pegasus (feat. Phoebe Bridgers)” from: My Soft Machine / Transgressive Records / May 26, 2023 [Anaïs Oluwatoyin Estelle Marinho is known professionally as Arlo Parks, She is a British singer-songwriter and poet. The title, My Soft Machine, comes from a piece of dialogue from the 2019 film The Souvenir. Of the song, “Pegasus” Parks said it is about experiencing the warmth and lightness of good love for the first time,” and “It also explores how the absence of chaos and the presence of real connection can be a little bit terrifying after a long time of not having it. // Her debut studio album, Collapsed in Sunbeams, was released through Transgressive Records on January 29, 2021, to critical acclaim and peaked at number three on the UK Albums Chart. // Anaïs Oluwatoyin Estelle Marinho was born on August 9, 2000 and raised in Hammersmith, West London. She is half Nigerian, quarter Chadian and quarter French. Her mother was born in Paris. Marinho learnt to speak French before she did English. // Parks chose her stage name in the manner of King Krule and Frank Ocean. In 2018, she began uploading demos to BBC Music Introducing which caught the attention of BBC Radio 1 DJ Jess Iszatt who distributed these demos to Ali Raymond of Beatnik Creative, who soon began managing Parks. She made her solo debut when she released the song “Cola” through Beatnik Records in November 2018, and announced the release of her debut EP, Super Sad Generation. She told Line of Best Fit that the song is “a reminder that betrayal is inevitable when it comes to pretty people that think flowers fix everything.” Olivia Swash wrote that the vocals on the song “flourish thanks to [Parks’] creative writing background, with her delicate tone taking centre stage against the gently plodding guitars and soft crackle of vinyl.” By November 2019, the song had amassed over three million streams on Spotify. // Following the release of “Cola”, Parks signed to Transgressive Records. She released the title track of her upcoming EP, Super Sad Generation, in January 2019. Robin Murray told Clash that the song portrays an “astute, nuanced creative control that also utilises word-play that speaks of youthful emotions spinning out of control.” Her third single, “Romantic Garbage”, was released in March 2019, before the release of the full four-track EP, Super Sad Generation in early April 2019. The EP was recorded in her home in South West London and an Airbnb in the Angel district of London. // Parks performed her first-ever gig at The Great Escape in Brighton in May 2019, and has gone on to perform on the BBC Music Introducing stage at Glastonbury Festival in late June 2019, as well as at Latitude Festival in July 2019. She embarked on her first tour supporting Jordan Rakei on the UK leg of his tour in September 2019. Throughout the last half of 2019 Parks released the songs “George”, “Second Guessing”, “Sophie”, and “Angel’s Song” ahead of her second EP, Sophie Sean Kerwick told DIY that the five-track EP “oozes with the hang-ups of heartbreak and mortality; a topic that seems to overshadow many gen-Z musicians.” // Parks embarked on her first headlining tour of Europe in February/March 2020, but could not complete it due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2020, Parks released the singles “Eugene” and “Black Dog”, which were well received during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, the latter of which became BBC Radio 1’s Tune of the Week. Parks made the front cover of NME in late July 2020. She won the AIM Independent Music Award for One to Watch in 2020 in August 2020, after losing the same award to Georgia a year before. Parks and Moses Boyd made the front cover of Music Week for the publication’s indie takeover special following the AIM Awards ceremony. Parks released her debut album, Collapsed in Sunbeams, on 29 January 2021. // Parks is openly bisexual and is based in London. She was educated at Latymer Upper School in Hammersmith and completed her A Levels in early 2019. In her auto-biographical blurb on her Spotify profile, Parks claimed that she spent most of secondary school “feeling like that black kid who couldn’t dance for shit, listening to too much emo music and crushing on some girl in her Spanish class.” // Parks has named Sylvia Plath & Joni Mitchell as among her influences.]
Stephonne Singleton – “Cross My Heart (Sext M.F.) (Radio Edit)” from: SIS: Side B [EP] / Stephonne / June 24, 2022 [Co-produced by, Justin Mantooth, and recorded at Westend Recording Studios. Johnny Hamil on bass, and Adam McKee on drums. Stephonne released the single, “Cross My Heart (Sexy M.F.) on June 3, 2022. Stephonne released the single, “Deja Vu” with Shilow and Regina Del Carmen on May 9, 2022. Stephonne released the single “The King’s Gambit” on July 28, 2021. Stephonne was part of the single, “Elephant Man (feat. Stephonne)” from Lee Walter Redding & Stephonne, released April 9, 2021. Stephonne released the single “Beautiful Life (Acoustic)” on January 15, 2021. Stephonne released SIS: Side A on August 7, 2020. The 4 song EP contained the song “Want Me” that was also made into a video featuring body painting on to Stephonne’s body from artist Ryan Wilks. Stephonne released his debut album, “Caged Bird Sings Songs About Red Beard.” The album was one of WMM’s 118 Best Recordings of 2018. Stephonne was born and raised in Wyandotte County, KS. He has performed in multiple shows for Late Night Theatre. Stephonne told John Long of Camp Magazine “I was surrounded by records, and my parents always had music on.” ]
Stephonne on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
11:15 – Interview with Stephonne Singleton
Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, organizing Tribute Shows, working as a Resident Artist at Charlottee Street studios, playing Music Festivals, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. 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 released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022 it was in the TOP TEN of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. Stephonne is a featured performer at the 23rd Annual West 18th Street Fashion Show happening this Friday, June 2, at 7:00 PM at 116 W. 18th St., KCMO. More info at: /www.eventbrite.com/e/west-18th-street-fashion-show
Stephonne’s 4-track EP, SIS: Side B, was released June 24, through Glory Blue Music. Co-produced by, Justin Mantooth, and recorded at Westend Recording Studios
Stephonne’s band: The Gay Rodeo is: Miki P on drums, Benjamin Hart (Byard) on lead guitar, Ahafia Jurkiewicz-Miles on keyboards, Spencer Thut on bass, hold band practice weekly at Charlotte Street Foundation where Stephonne is in his 2nd year of a residency.
Performances of Stephonne & The Gay Rodeo show a sexier Stephonne wearing mostly women’s undergarments and erotic costuming. Stephonne credits his work in therapy during the pandemic that has helped him take control of his own sexuality Stephonne’s latest publicity photos are taken by photographer John Brant.
With his influences, Prince, Billie Holiday, The Alabama Shakes, Stephonne loves to push boundaries with his music by blending the genres of Alt-Rock, Soul, & R&B. On August 18, 2021 Stephonne joined us to talk about “The King’s Gambit,” about having strong feelings for a man, but due to the fear of rejection, was afraid to share these sentiments aloud. In this track, Stephonne compares the skill of flirtation to a game of chess.
Stephonne Discography
Stephonne – “I Miss U (A Christmas Song)” / Single / December 7, 2022
Stephonne – “Rocket In My Pocket (Feat. Shawn M Stewart)” / Single / Aug. 26, 2022
Stephonne – SIS: SIDE B / EP / June 24, 2022.
Stephonne – “Cross My Heart (Sexy M.F.) (Radio Edit)” / Single / June 3, 2022
Stephonne – “Deja Vu” with Shilow, Regina Del Carmen / Single / May 9, 2022
Stephonne – “The King’s Gambit” / Single / July 28, 2021
Stephonne – “Elephant Man (feat. Stephonne)” from Lee Walter Redding / Single / 4-9-21.
Stephonne – “Beautiful Life (Acoustic)” / Single / January 15, 2021.
Stephonne – SIS: SIDE A / EP / August 7, 2020
Stephonne – “Deep” / Single / July 14, 2020
Stephonne – “Dominate” / Single / September 6, 2019
Stephonne – “Want Me” / Single / April 26, 2019
Stephonne – CAGED BIRD SINGS SONGS ABOUT RED BEARD / Album / July 27, 2018
Stephonne – “Unworthy” / Single / August 28, 2015
Lee Walter Redding told us that he learned about Stephonne Singleton from listening to Wednesday MidDay Medley and hearing Stephonne for the first time. WMM bringing musical collaborations together since 2004. Lyrics and music by Lee Redding. Vocals and raw emotion on Elephant Man by Stephonne. Mixing and mastering by Justin Skinner. Lee Walter Redding writes: “Elephant Man” is inspired by young, black men diagnosed with schizophrenia and the issues they face dealing with stigma and difficulty fitting into a society that makes little room for those with severe mental health challenges. This is something that Stephonne felt deeply connected to and was gracious enough to put his full heart on display for the world to hear.
Stephonne Singleton, Thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Stephonne on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
Stephonne – “Rocket In My Pocket (Feat. Shawn M Stewart)” from: “Rocket In My Pocket (Feat. Shawn M Stewart)” / Stephonne & Shawn M Stewart / August, 26, 2022 [At The 18th Annual Crossroads Music Fest on Saturday, August 27, at 9:00 PM on Community Lending of America Stage at Lemonade Park, Stephonne his band The Gay Rodeo premiered “Rocket In MY Pocket” with special stage guest and song co-creator Shawn M Stewart. Stephonne’s band The Gay Rodeo is: Miki P on drums, Benjamin Hart (Byard) on lead guitar, Ahafia Jurkiewicz-Miles on keyboards, Spencer Thut on bass, Stephonne and The Gay Rodeo hold band practice every week at Charlotte Street Foundation where Stephonne is in his second year of a residency.Earlier this year on June 24, 2022, Stephonne released the EP SIS: Side B June 24, 2022. The EP was Co-produced by, Justin Mantooth, and recorded at Westend Recording Studios. Johnny Hamil on bass, and Adam McKee on drums. Stephonne released the single, “Cross My Heart (Sexy M.F.) on June 3, 2022. Stephonne released the single, “Deja Vu” with Shilow and Regina Del Carmen on May 9, 2022. Stephonne released the single “The King’s Gambit” on July 28, 2021. Stephonne was part of the single, “Elephant Man (feat. Stephonne)” from Lee Walter Redding & Stephonne, released April 9, 2021. Stephonne released the single “Beautiful Life (Acoustic)” on January 15, 2021. Stephonne released SIS: Side A on August 7, 2020. The 4 song EP contained the song “Want Me” that was also made into a video featuring body painting on to Stephonne’s body from artist Ryan Wilks. Stephonne released his debut album, “Caged Bird Sings Songs About Red Beard.” The album was one of WMM’s 118 Best Recordings of 2018. Stephonne was born and raised in Wyandotte County, Kansas. Stephonne grew up in KCK. He has performed in multiple shows for Late Night Theatre. Stephonne told John Long of Camp Magazine “I was surrounded by records, and my parents always had music on.” // Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton who is everywhere these days, organizing a Tribute to Sade at Lemonade Park, playing shows for Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. 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. // More info at: http://www.stephonne.com and : http://www.shawnmstewart.com]
10:30 – Underwriting
Stephonne and Luke Harbur on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
musicbyskippy – “This Song Is Happiness” from: These Songs Are Emotions / LSH Productions / April 22, 2023 [In 2022 musicbyskippy released the 12-track debut album, MY DYING WISH on Feb. 18, the single “Get Wild” on June 3, the 12-track instrumental/electronic album WE PRESS PLAY, on June 17, and the 5-track EP, YOU CAN SING on Nov. 20, plus an original play and multiple projects and performances. // musicby-skippy is Luke Harbur’s entertainment project. The Overland Park, Kansas native mixes beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, & keyboard playing to entertain all-age audiences. After graduating from Ithaca College in 2018, he moved near home to Kansas City, Missouri, becoming a featured performer for musicians, festivals, corporate & non-profit events, and performance groups. His music passion roots in receiving a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months old. His debut album, my dying wish, was released on all music streaming and purchasing platforms. More info at http://www.musicbyskippy.com]
musicbyskippy aka Luke Harbur on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
10:34 – Interview with Luke Harbur
musicbyskippy is the solo musical project by Luke Harbur. Known for being a vocal per-cussionist, his discography spans multiple genres of pop, hip hop, EDM, and singer / song-writer. Harbur’s passion for musicbyskippy originates with his receiving a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months, giving him a second chance to live life to the fullest. Through his experimental, authentic approach, he hopes his audiences will gravitate to music and a live experience that they will love. More info at: http://www.musicbyskippy.com
musicbyskippy Plays a Release Show for his new EP, THESE SONGS ARE EMOTIONS June 24 & 25th, at the Musical Theatre Heritage on the third floor of the Crown Center Shops, 2450 Grand Blvd KCMO.
Luke M. Harbur Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.
Musicbyskippy – Discography
musicbyskippy – MY DYING WISH / 12-track debut Album / Feb. 18, 2022
musicbyskippy – “Get Wild” / Single / June 3, 2022
musicbyskippy – WE PRESS PLAY / 12-track instrumental album / June 17, 2022
musicbyskippy – YOU CAN SING / 5-track EP / Nov. 20, 2022
musicbyskippy – THESE SONGS ARE EMOTIONS / 5-track EP / April 22, 2023
Luke M. Harbur records as musicbyskippy. After graduating from Ithaca College in 2018, he moved near home to Kansas City, Missouri, becoming a featured performer for musicians, corporate & non-profit events, and performance groups. The Kansas native mixes beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, and keyboard playing to entertain all-age audiences in clubs, theaters, festivals and with Kansas City performance collective: Quixotic. The passion in his music has roots in his experience of receiving a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months old. musicbyskippy officially released his debut album, MY DYING WISH with a live album release show, on April 7 & 8, at Quixotic, 1616 Broadway Blvd, KCMO at their Blackbox Theater.
Luke was born and raised in Overland Park Kansas and went to Olathe East High School but let Olathe East to go to school in Winston Salem, North Carolina, at a Performing Arts School where you studied Acting and Theatre.
Luke then went to Ithica College to study Journalism and eventually got a job as a Production Assistant at the Kansas City Star,
Luke talked with Mark about the importance of collaboration in midsize market like Kansas City and how others can benefit from these collaborations.
Luke M. Harbur mixes beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, and keyboard playing to entertain all-age audiences in clubs, theaters, festivals.
Luke M. Harbur works in Music Videography, Social Media Management, and graphic Design.
The story in 100 words
musicbyskippy is Luke Harbur’s entertainment project. The Overland Park, Kansas native mixes beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, & keyboard playing to entertain all-age audiences. After graduating from Ithaca College in 2018, he moved near home to Kansas City, Missouri, becoming a featured performer for musicians, festivals, corporate & non-profit events, and performance groups.
His music passion roots in receiving a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months old. His debut album, my dying wish, is now on all music streaming and purchasing platforms. He hopes you learn something new and experience songs you love.
musicbyskippy is the entertainment project of Overland Park, Kansas native Luke “Skippy” Harbur. He’s developed skills in beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, & keyboard playing in hopes to express his core vision: everyone has an inner artist and should be able to express their full, authentic self.
Since moving to Kansas City, Missouri in 2019, he’s started finding his audience: Quixotic, Missie B’s, and Cafe Cà Phê have become some of his core, consistent collaborators, and in 2021 he started releasing his first batch of public music projects. His first was SKIPPY Sessions Volume 1, a collection of 8 short music compositions combining his beatboxing skills with other artistic disciplines practiced by other Kansas City-based artists. The second music project was “Rant,” his debut single from his debut album, my dying wish, which released on all music streaming and purchasing platforms on February 18th, 2022.
Each opportunity to perform and collaborate with others is rooted in a deeper story. In 1996, at 5 months old, he was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a rare liver disease. 6 months later he received a life-saving liver transplant from an 8-year-old boy named Aaron Drake, who passed away while on a camping trip at The Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. But through this tragedy came hope, giving Luke “Skippy” Harbur a second chance to inspire others. From his music, he hopes you learn something new and experience songs you love.
Organizations & artists featuring musicbyskippy
Rubulad (2023) | New York City, New York Community School of Music and Arts (2023) | Ithaca, New York University of Kansas (2023) | Lawrence, Kansas Music Theater Heritage (2022 & 2023) | Kansas City, Missouri Boulevardia (2022 & 2023) | Kansas City, Missour Quixotic (2019, 2020, 2021, & 2022) | Kansas City, Missouri No Divide KC (2021 & 2022) | Kansas City, Missouri Blue Valley High School (2022) | Overland Park, Kansas Brookridge Day School (2022) | Overland Park, Kansas Velo Garage & Tap House / The Record Machine (2022) | North Kansas City, Missouri PH Coffee (2022) | Kansas City, Missouri Fountain Haus (2021 & 2022) | Kansas City, Missouri Missie B’s (2021 & 2022) | Kansas City, Missouri The Black Box KC (2021 & 2022) | Kansas City, Missouri Cafe Cà Phê (2021) | Kansas City, Missouri & North Kansas City, Missouri Jukeboxx Media, gig for T-Mobile (2021) | Kansas City, Missouri Fishtank Theatre (2021) | Kansas City, Missouri Jesse Powers (Beat of Your Drum, 2021) | Kansas City, Missouri Calvin Arsenia (Little Drummer Boy, 2019) | Kansas City, Missouri
Luke has been doing public speaking for 15 years. Luke received a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months old.
Luke M. Harbur Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.
musicbyskippy plays a Release Show for his new EP, THESE SONGS ARE EMOTIONS June 24 & 25th, at the Musical Theatre Heritage on the 3rd floor of the Crown Center Shops, 2450 Grand Blvd KCMO.
musicbyskippy aka Luke Harbur on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
musicbyskippy – “This Song Is Surprised” from: These Songs Are Emotions / LSH Productions / April 22, 2023 [In 2022 musicbyskippy released the 12-track debut album, MY DYING WISH on Feb. 18, the single “Get Wild” on June 3, the 12-track instrumental/electronic album WE PRESS PLAY, on June 17, and the 5-track EP, YOU CAN SING on Nov. 20, plus an original play and multiple projects and performances. // musicby-skippy is Luke Harbur’s entertainment project. The Overland Park, Kansas native mixes beatboxing, singing, beat production, rapping, & keyboard playing to entertain all-age audiences. After graduating from Ithaca College in 2018, he moved near home to Kansas City, Missouri, becoming a featured performer for musicians, festivals, corporate & non-profit events, and performance groups. His music passion roots in receiving a life-saving liver transplant at the age of 11 months old. His debut album, my dying wish, was released on all music streaming and purchasing platforms. More info at http://www.musicbyskippy.com]
10:50
Jennifer Reynolds, Julia Reynolds, Stephonne Singleton, and Luke Harbur on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
Julia Reynolds & Michael Johnson – “Surrender” from: LEMON TREE / Julia Reynolds / July 29, 2022 [Kansas City based musician, Julia Reynolds who is a talented songwriter, singer, engineer, model, and much more. Julia performs and writes in many different styles, but she is currently radiating towards rock, alternative, electronic dance music, and folk. Julia Reynolds joins us to talk abut her solo musical releases and her collaborative work with other artists including Lonnie Fisher and The Funeral. Last year Julia Reynolds released the 10-track solo album, QUEEN OF CRAZY, and the 12 track album, LEMON TREE with Michael Johnson. She released both albums together on July 29, 2022. More information at: http://www.juliareynoldsmusic.com
Julia Reynolds, on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
10:52 – Interview with Julia Reynolds
Kansas City based musician, Julia Reynolds who is a talented songwriter, singer, engineer, model, and much more. Julia performs and writes in many different styles, but she is currently radiating towards rock, alternative, electronic dance music, and folk. Julia Reynolds joins us to talk abut her solo musical releases and her collaborative work with other artists including Lonnie Fisher and The Funeral. Last year Julia Reynolds released the 10-track solo album, QUEEN OF CRAZY, and the 12 track album, LEMON TREE with Michael Johnson. She released both albums together on July 29, 2022. More information at: http://www.juliareynoldsmusic.com
Julia Reynolds, Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Julia Reynolds is a Kansas City based musician, singer, songwriter, producer, pianist, model, fashion designer/stylist, and more.
Julia performs, produces and writes in many different styles, including, but not limited to, electro-pop, rock, pop, alt, roots and folk.
Julia plays in the band Lonnie Fisher and The Funeral
Julia is a seamstress as well, creating unique fashion pieces of many styles, which she often models for shoots and at her performances. She also accepts commissions and has made customs for performers and non performers alike.
Julia Reynolds and Jennifer Reynolds, on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
Her mother Jennifer Reynolds helps her with her costumes.
In her pastime, some favorite activities of Julia’s (other than music and fashion) include: yoga, being around animals, tarot cards, traveling, video games, reading books, working out, photography, photoshop and sketching.
You can listen hear Julia’s two albums QUEEN OF CRAZY (Solo – Electropop/Rock) LEMON TREE (Collaboration with Michael Johnson)- Alternative Folk/Roots
Julia Reynolds, Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Julia Reynolds – “Little Girl” from: QUEEN OF CRAZY / Julia Reynolds / July 29, 2022 [Kansas City based musician, Julia Reynolds who is a talented songwriter, singer, engineer, model, and much more. Julia performs and writes in many different styles, but she is currently radiating towards rock, alternative, electronic dance music, and folk. Julia Reynolds joins us to talk abut her solo musical releases and her collaborative work with other artists including Lonnie Fisher and The Funeral. Last year Julia Reynolds released the 10-track solo album, QUEEN OF CRAZY, and the 12 track album, LEMON TREE with Michael Johnson. She released both albums together on July 29, 2022. More info at: http://www.juliareynoldsmusic.com ]
Julia Reynolds and Mica-Elgin Vi on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “City Burning” from: “City Burning” – Single / Modern Day Fitzgerald / May 26, 2023 [Modern Day Fitzgerald is a high energy pop rock group that just got done recording our new album called ‘Meet Me On Armour Road’ coming out this summer. In preparation for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the band released their new single ‘City Burning’. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net]
Mica-Elgin Vi on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
11:13 – More Interview with Mica-Elgin Vi
Mica-Elgin Vi is a founding member of the band, Modern Day Fitzgerald. Between 2016 and 2023 the band has released two 5-track EPs, and 5 singles. Modern Day Fitzgerald is a high energy pop rock group that just recently finished recording their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, coming out this summer. As part of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Mica-Elgin Vi joins us to talk about the band’s new single, “City Burning” Just released on May 26, 2023. Mica-Elgin Vi is a proud first generation Filipino American, and is glad to be one of the fully led AAPI rock bands here in Kansas City. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net
Mica-Elgin Vi Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Mica-Elgin Vi has a lot of different interests in his life; music, film, photography and fashion. He wanted to make something that can incorporate all of those in one.
He created Modern Day Fitzgerald. According to Mica-Elgin Vi, Modern Day Fitzgerald is more than a band, but a lifestyle representing his own personal renaissance.
Combining genres from pop songs from the 60’s with a sophisticated modern approach to british rock with true lyrical content from Vi, you cannot deny the catchiness and realism of their songs.
On the other side of the spectrum, he deliberately uses music videos to help paint a picture of his songs. He also uses other online content to document his journey of being a musician; vlogs, podcasts, interviews with different creators and more. The main goal is not only share his own story but also build value onto others to create positivity in todays’ culture.
Modern Day Fitzgerald has opened up for: The Romantics, Castlecomer, The Ghost Wolves, Leopold & His Fiction
Modern Day Fitzgerald has performed at The Midcoast Takeover Showcase during South By Southwest, The Sunset Music Fest, Swift Mile Fest & more
“Having a knack for poetic focused fun rock numbers, Modern Day Fitzgerald didn’t fall short…” – Playlist Play
Mica-Elgin Vi and represents a Kansas City based band called Modern Day Fitzgerald, a high energy pop rock group that just got done recording their new album called ‘Meet Me On Armour Road’ coming out this summer. As part of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Modern Day Fitzgerald released their new single ‘City Burning’ on Friday May 26th. Mica-Elgin Vi is a proud first generation Filipino American, and is glad to be one of the fully led AAPI rock bands here in Kansas City.
Modern Day Fitzgerald – Discography
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “City Burning” (Single) – May 26, 2023
Modern Day Fitzgerald – LIVE AT RINO – (5-track Live EP) – November 20, 2020
Modern Day Fitzgerald – THE NOSTALGIC GENERATION (5-track EP) – Nov. 8, 2019
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Cherry Blossoms” (Single) – July 19, 2019
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Where Did You Go” (Single) – February 23, 2018
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Forsaken Echo” (Singer) – May 12, 2017
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Gorgeous Killing” (Single) – February 26, 2016
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is observed in the U.S. during the month of May, and recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
The first Asians documented in the Americas arrived in 1587, when Filipinos landed in California; from 1898 to 1946, the Philippines was an American possession. The next group of Asians documented in what would be the United States were Indians in Jamestown, documented as early as 1635. In 1778, the first Chinese to reach what would be the United States, arrived in Hawaii. In 1788, the first Native Hawaiian arrived on the continental United States, in Oregon; in 1900, Hawaii was annexed by the United States. The next group of Asians documented in what would be the United States were Japanese, who arrived in Hawaii in 1806. In 1884, the first Koreans arrived in the United States. In 1898, Guam was ceded to the United States; beginning in the 1900s, Chamorros began to migrate to California and Hawaii. In 1904, what is now American Samoa was ceded to the United States; beginning in the 1920s, Samoans began to migrate to Hawaii and the continental United States, with the first Samoans documented in Hawaii in 1920. In 1912, the first Vietnamese was documented in the United States.
A former congressional staffer in the 1970s, Jeanie Jew, first approached Representative Frank Horton with the idea of designating a month to recognize Asian Pacific Americans, following the bicentennial celebrations. In June 1977, Representatives Horton, and Norman Y. Mineta, introduced a United States House of Representatives resolution to proclaim the first ten days of May as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate a month later by Daniel Inouye and Spark Matsunaga. // The proposed resolutions sought that May be designated for two reasons. For on May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrant, Nakahama Manjirō, arrived in the US. More than two decades later, on May 10, 1869, the golden spike was driven into the first transcontinental railroad, which was completed using Chinese labor.
President Jimmy Carter signed a joint resolution for the celebration on October 5, 1978. // On May 1, 2009, President Barack Obama signed Proclamation 8369, recognizing the month of May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
“A joint resolution authorizing the President to proclaim annually a week during the first 10 days in May as Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week.” was text in House Joint Resolution 540; this resolution as well as Senate Joint Resolution 72 did not pass. Ultimate-ly, though, Rep. Horton’s House Joint Resolution 1007 was passed by both the House and the Senate, and was signed by President Jimmy Carter on Oct. 5, 1978, to become Public Law 95-419. In 1990, George H. W. Bush signed a bill passed by Congress to extend Asian-American Heritage Week to a month; May was designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month two years later. // During APA Heritage Month, communities celebrate the achievements and contributions of Asian and Pacific Americans with community festivals, government-sponsored activities and educational activities for students.]
Mica-Elgin Vi Thank you for being with us on WMM.
As part of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Modern Day Fitzgerald released their new single ‘City Burning’ on Friday May 19th.
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Where Did You Go (Live at The Rino)” from: Live At The Rino / Modern Day Fitzgerald / November 20, 2020 [Modern Day Fitzgerald is a high energy pop rock group that just got done recording our new album called ‘Meet Me On Armour Road’ coming out this summer. Between 2016 and 2023 the band has released two 5-track EPs, and 5 singles. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net]
10:30 – Underwriting
Andrew Connor – “Green Divide” from: In Colorado / Pretend Outlaw Music / April 21, 2021 [Darien Williams on drums, Justin Fernando on bass guitar, Joseph Murphy on synth, Ryan Connor on guitar & lap steel, Andrew Connor on guitar, keys, & bass guitar. // Engineered by Doug Malone at Jamdek, Chicago // additional tracking by Andrew Connor. // Mixed by Mike Nolte and Andrew Connor in Portland, OR // Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering // Songs by Andrew Connor, Pretend Outlaw Music ASCAP Except “Misery” by Ryan Connor and Andrew Connor. // VINYL PRE ORDERS AVAILABLE SUMMER 2023 // “Daytime” (Official Video): youtu.be/PNQNowsCpPQ // “Moment Passed” (Official Visualizer): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xR28LYcRFlo // Andrew Connor is a veteran of the Lawrence KS – KC Music Community. Ghosty has released some of our most favorite music of the past 19 years of this radio show
Ryan Connor, Bill Belzer, and Andrew Connor of Ghosty on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
10:35 – Interview with Andrew Connor, Ryan Connor, and Bill Belzer
The Lawrence/KC band GHOSTY is one of our most played and favorite area bands of all time Between 2002 and 2020 GHOSTY has released six EPs, three full length albums, and multiple singles. Andrew Connor just recently released his new album, IN COLORADO on April 21, 2023. GHOSTY plays The Ship, 1221 Union Ave. KCMO WEST BOTTOMS, on Friday, June 2 at 8:00 PM with Daniel Gum, and 95 Sweetbird. And GHOSTY plays the Eight Street Tap Room, 801 New Hampshire Street, Lawrence, Kansas on Saturday, June 3, with Miss Boating, and Empty Moon. More info at: http://www.ghostysounds.com
Andrew Connor, thanks for being with us on WMM
Andrew Connor just recently released his new album, IN COLORADO on April 21, 2023.
GHOSTY plays The Ship, 1221 Union Ave. KCMO WEST BOTTOMS, on Friday, June 2 at 8:00 PM with Daniel Gum, and 95 Sweetbird.
And GHOSTY plays the Eight Street Tap Room, 801 New Hampshire Street, Lawrence, Kansas on Saturday, June 3, with Miss Boating.
Ghosty released the 3-song EP, PRODIGAL SUN on February 28, 2020 with Bill Belzer on drums, percussion / Ross Brown on guitar, keys / Andrew Connor on guitar, keyboards, vocals / Mike Nolte on bass
Ghosty released the self titled album, GHOSTY on April 17, 2014. It was there 3rd full length release with Andrew Connor, Mike Nolte and Bill Belzer who recorded their new album themselves over the last couple of years with help from David Wetzel, Josh Adams, Jake Blanton, Konnor Ervin, Ryan Connor, Kirsten Paludan, and Dan Talmadge. The new release was pressed on vinyl and available on LP and digital download.]
Ghosty released the single, “Love U 2” on July 15, 2013, recorded June 2013 at Westend, Kansas City, KS. A documentary about the recording of this song by surrounding media vimeo.com/70317712 // with: Mike Nolte on bass, engineering, mastering // Andrew Connor on guitar, keys, vocals / Bill Belzer – drums, & percussion
Ghosty released the 5-track EP, TEAM UP AGAIN on April 13, 2010 with Andrew Connor, Mike Nolte, David Wetzel, Josh Adams, Jake Blanton, Suzannah Johannes, Konnor Ervin, Ryan Johnson // Team Up Again,” “Ocean of Heat (Setting FIres),” and “Quell The Hunger” by Andrew Connor, arranged by Ghosty, Pretend Outlaw Music, ASCAP, 2010. “Virginia Song” by Rev. Howard Finster, arranged by Ghosty. “On A Saturday” by Jake Blanton, arranged by Ghosty. // “Team Up Again,” “Setting Fires,” “Virginia Song,” and “On A Saturday” recorded and mixed at Run Riot / More Famouser Studios, Shawnee, KS, September 2009 through March 2010. Engineered and mixed by Mike Nolte and Ghosty. // “Quell The Hunger” recorded at Mixtape Soundlab, Lawrence, KS, January 2009 additional tracking and mixing and Run Riot / More Famouser studios, Shawnee, KS, and February 2010. Engineered and mixed by Mike Nolte and Ghosty.
Ghosty released the 3-track EP, FOOLISH PRIDE on November 17, 2009 with All songs by Andrew Connor, arranged by Ghosty, Pretend Outlaw Music, ASCAP, 2009 // “Foolish Pride” and “Rose-Colored Glasses” basic tracks recorded at Jack’s House, Merriam, Kansas, Fall 2007. Engineered by Mike Nolte and Ghosty. Additional tracking and mixing at More Famouser Studios, Kansas City, MO, and Run Riot Studios, Shawnee, KS, Fall 2009. // “Hey Bill” basic tracks recorded at Mixtape Soundlab, Lawrence, KS, January 2009. Engineered by Mike Nolte and David Wetzel. Additional tracking and mixing at More Famouser Studios, Kansas City, MO by Mike Nolte and Ghosty, Spring 2009.
Ghosty released the 3-track EP, A MYSTIC’S ROBE on September 15, 2009 with Andrew Connor, David Wetzel, Mike Nolte, Jake Blanton, Josh Adams, Carmen Winters // All Songs by Andrew Connor, arranged by Ghosty, Pretend Outlaw Music, ASCAP, 2009 // “My Girl Is Strong” and “Sunday Morning” basic tracks recorded at Mixtape Soundlab, Lawrence, KS, January 2009. Engineered by Mike Nolte and David Wetzel. Additional tracking & mixing at More Famouser Studios, KCMO by Mike Nolte & Ghosty Spring 2009. // “Secret Language” basic tracks recorded at Jack’s House, Merriam, KS, Fall 2007 Engineered by Mike Nolte & Ghosty. Additional tracking & mixing at More Famouser Studios, by Mike Nolte & Ghosty Spring 2009.
Ghosty released the 11-song album, ANSWERS on January 15, 2008 with tracks recorded by Paul Malinowski at Westend and Run Riot Studios, Kansas City, KS, 2006-07. racks 4, 6, 7, and 9 were recorded and mixed by Trent Bell at Bell Labs, Norman, OK, 2006. // Track 8 was recorded by Tim Brandsted at UMKC and Paul Malinowski at Westend. Mixed by Paul Malinowski at Westend, 2007. // Tracks 2 and 10 were recorded by Chris Behmer at the Ferrell home, Overland Park, KS, 2005, and with Trent Bell at Bell Labs. Mixed by Trent Bell at Bell Labs, 2006. // Mastered by Roger Seibel at SAE Masterin // All songs by Andrew Connor, arranged by Ghosty // Pretend Outlaw Music, ASCAP. // Released on Oxblood Records.
Ghosty released the 5-track EP, ME, ME, ME on January 15, 2006 w/ Andrew Connor on guitar & vocals / Jeff Ferrell on guitar & vocals // David Wetzel on keyboards &* vocals // Mike Nolte – bass & vocals // Josh Adams on drums & vocals // Recorded & mixed Fall 2005 by Jeff Ferrell and Ghosty at New York St. house, Lawrence, KS. Artwork by Paul Browning. Songs by Andrew Connor, Pretend Outlaw Music
Ghosty released the 19-ytrack album, GROW UP OR SLEEP IN (Deluxe Edition) on August 30, 2005 with Josh Adams, Andrew Connor, Jeff Ferrell, Mike Nolte, David Wetzel// and Alums: Jacob Baum, Richard Gintowt, Mark Hurst, Andrew Sallee, James Duft // Big Surrender, Henry Greene, and Hey! Somebody were recorded by Mike Mogis at Presto! in Lincoln, NE in the summer of 2002 // Jacqueline, Rooms in the Dark, (In a Big World)Little Dreams Count, High on Life, Clouds Solve It, Go to Add/Drop City, and World Travelers were recorded by Trent Bell and Andy Nunez at Bell Labs in Norman, OK in the fall 2003 // Mastered by Doug Van Sloun at Studio B // Design by Patrick Giroux at Blue Collar Press // All songs by Andrew Connor, Copyright 2005 // Pretend Outlaw Music(ASCAP) // Wayne Coyne appears courtesy of Warner Brothers Records // BONUS TRACKS: Primadonna, John Hunter, and Sad Sack recorded Summer 2006? at the Ferrell Home in Overland Park, KS by Chris Behmer and Ghosty // Dust Box Nites and Rok Town Air recorded and mixed with Tom Wagner at Underground Sound in Lawrence Kansas, Winter 2005? James Duft plays bass // Going Home Recorded in the Spring of 2002 at 1225 and 1137 Tennessee in Lawrence, KS by Ghosty, Mixed with Jeff Ferrell.
Ghosty released the 6-track EP, THE FIVE SHORT MINUTES on February 2, 2002 with Andrew Connor: Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards / Jacob Baum: Bass, Organ, Percussion, Guitar / Richard Gintowt: Drums, Percussion / Jeff Jackson: Pedal Steel Guitar on Track 5 // Recorded Fall 2001 at the haunted house by Jacob Baum / Produced by Ghosty / Mastered by Boyd Bristow
11:43
Andrew Connor – “Real Boy Now” from: In Colorado / Pretend Outlaw Music / April 21, 2021 [Darien Williams on drums, Justin Fernando on bass guitar, Joseph Murphy on synth, Ryan Connor on guitar & lap steel, Andrew Connor on guitar, keys, & bass guitar. // Engineered by Doug Malone at Jamdek, Chicago // additional tracking by Andrew Connor. // Mixed by Mike Nolte and Andrew Connor in Portland, OR // Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering // Songs by Andrew Connor, Pretend Outlaw Music ASCAP Except “Misery” by Ryan Connor and Andrew Connor.]
[Andrew Connor plays The Ship, 1221 Union Ave. KCMO WEST BOTTOMS, on Friday, June 2 at 8:00 PM with Daniel Gum, and 95 Sweetbird.]
[Andrew Connor plays the Eight Street Tap Room, 801 New Hampshire Street, Lawrence Kansas on Saturday, June 3, with Miss Boating.]
Andrew Connor, Bill Belzer, and Ryan Connor of Ghosty on the Wednesday, May 31, 2023 edition of Wednesday MidDay Medley on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio.
11:45 – Interview with Andrew Connor, Ryan Connor, and Bill Belzer
The Lawrence/KC band GHOSTY is one of our most played and favorite area bands of all time Between 2002 and 2020 GHOSTY has released six EPs, three full length albums, and multiple singles. Andrew Connor just recently released his new album, IN COLORADO on April 21, 2023.
Bill Belzer is part of the band Miss Boating. He has also been a member of Ghosty, The New Amsterdams, Grumpy, Mongol Beach Party and many others.
Andrew Connor, Ryan Connor and Bill Belzer thanks for being with us on WMM
Andrew Connor just recently released his new album, IN COLORADO on April 21, 2023. More info at: http://www.ghostysounds.com
11:54
14. Andrew Connor – “Moment Passed” from: In Colorado / Pretend Outlaw Music / April 21, 2021 [Darien Williams on drums, Justin Fernando on bass guitar, Joseph Murphy on synth, Ryan Connor on guitar & lap steel, Andrew Connor on guitar, keys, & bass guitar. // Engineered by Doug Malone at Jamdek, Chicago // additional tracking by Andrew Connor. // Mixed by Mike Nolte and Andrew Connor in Portland, OR // Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering // Songs by Andrew Connor, Pretend Outlaw Music ASCAP Except “Misery” by Ryan Connor and Andrew Connor./
[Andrew Connor plays The Ship, 1221 Union Ave. KCMO WEST BOTTOMS, on Friday, June 2 at 8:00 PM with Daniel Gum, and 95 Sweetbird.]
[Andrew Connor plays the Eight Street Tap Room, 801 New Hampshire Street, Lawrence Kansas on Saturday, June 3, with Miss Boating]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on WMM on June 7 we welcome Marion Merritt and Betse Ellis who join us for our Spring Fund Drive Show. We welcome special guests: Mike McCoy and Mark Reynolds who join us to discuss a benefit for Mark Reynold’s partner Josh Ybarra. Also next week we welcome back to the show IVORY BLUE. Also Next week we present a tribute to Lou Jane Temple who we lost on May 29, 2023. show was 79 years old.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley 