KCRW, a prominent public radio station, is expanding its music programming with the addition of three new DJs: LUXXURY, John Tejada, and Peanut Butter Wolf. These artists bring their unique sounds and established communities to the station, aiming to deepen KCRW's connection with Los Angeles's dynamic music scene. The changes will also introduce new weekend show rhythms and two 24/7 music streams.
Key Takeaways
- KCRW adds three new DJs: LUXXURY, John Tejada, and Peanut Butter Wolf.
- New weekend lineup features dedicated slots for rock, dance, soul, hip-hop, and jazz.
- Two new 24/7 music streams, Dance24 and Vintage24, are now available through the KCRW app.
- Morning Becomes Eclectic (MBE) will broadcast live on YouTube, offering an interactive experience.
- Departing DJs Jason Kramer, Jeremy Sole, José Galvan, Valida, and Travis Holcombe are recognized for their contributions.
New Voices Join KCRW's Ranks
The addition of LUXXURY, John Tejada, and Peanut Butter Wolf marks a significant evolution in KCRW's programming. These DJs are not just selectors of music; they are artists who have built their own creative worlds and cultivated dedicated audiences. Their arrival is set to infuse KCRW with fresh energy and diverse musical perspectives.
John Tejada is a globally recognized figure in techno and electronic music. With decades of experience as a DJ, producer, and composer, his style blends experimental sounds with more accessible beats. He bridges underground innovation with rhythms that resonate widely with listeners.
Artist Fact: John Tejada
John Tejada has influenced electronic music for over 20 years, known for his refined approach that connects experimental sounds with dancefloor appeal.
Peanut Butter Wolf, whose real name is Chris Manak, will join KCRW's Sunday evening schedule. This slot is traditionally dedicated to a mix of soul, R&B, hip-hop, and jazz. As the founder of Stones Throw Records, he has championed many boundary-pushing artists. His deep roots in Los Angeles's creative community and international reputation for shaping independent music make him a valuable addition.
Blake Robin, known professionally as LUXXURY, is an LA-based artist, producer, and DJ. His work is characterized by a blend of classic songwriting and modern production techniques. His sound aligns well with KCRW's exploratory spirit. Robin is also known for his podcast, "One Song."
Weekend Programming Gets a New Rhythm
Starting October 31, KCRW's weekend schedule will feature a distinct new structure. Fridays will emphasize rock-driven shows, including sets from Henry Rollins and the newly added LUXXURY. This shift highlights the station's commitment to diverse genres.
Saturdays will celebrate KCRW’s long-standing dance music legacy. The lineup includes DJ SiLVA, Jason Bentley's Metropolis, and a new show from John Tejada. This ensures that electronic music enthusiasts have a dedicated space for discovery.
Sundays will focus on soul, hip-hop, and jazz. Peanut Butter Wolf will host a new show, joining LeRoy Downs in curating this soulful segment of the weekend. These changes aim to provide listeners with a consistent and enjoyable listening experience tailored to specific genres.
KCRW's Evolution
KCRW has a history of exploring new sounds and ideas. These programming updates reflect the station's ongoing effort to connect with the evolving cultural landscape of Los Angeles while maintaining its core mission of music discovery and community engagement.
Expanded Digital Offerings: New 24/7 Streams
Beyond the refreshed on-air lineup, KCRW is launching two new 24/7 music streams, exclusively available through its redesigned app. These streams offer listeners more ways to engage with KCRW's extensive music library and curated content.
Dance24, curated by DJ SiLVA, will showcase a wide array of dance music genres and subgenres. It will feature a mix of handpicked tracks and DJ sets pulled from KCRW's extensive archives. This stream caters to listeners who crave continuous dance music.
Vintage24 offers a nostalgic journey back to KCRW's "basement years." This stream will feature both past and current KCRW DJs revisiting iconic shows and sounds from the station's history. It provides a unique opportunity for listeners to rediscover classic KCRW moments.
"We’re always giving space to new sounds, new ideas, and new connections while staying rooted in what’s always made KCRW special: real people, real stories, and a deep love for music," stated Alejandro Cohen, KCRW music director.
Resident DJ Series and Live YouTube Broadcasts
KCRW is also introducing a weekly mix series called "Resident DJ." This series will feature a new host each month, drawing from a diverse lineup of DJs, bands, solo artists, and other creatives. The inaugural resident is the electro-pop band Hot Chip, with Moon Boots scheduled for November and Thomas Dolby for December. Listeners can tune in at midnight on Thursdays for the hour-long broadcast or stream it on demand via the KCRW app on Fridays.
Additionally, the popular show "Morning Becomes Eclectic" (MBE), hosted by Novena Carmel, will now broadcast live on YouTube. This new format allows a global audience to join the conversation in real-time. Viewers can tune in for an hour every weekday at 10 AM PT for an interactive experience, complete with a chat room, live playlist, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of KCRW’s studios.
- Hot Chip kicks off the Resident DJ series in October.
- Moon Boots will take over in November.
- Thomas Dolby is scheduled for December.
Acknowledging Departures
While KCRW embraces these new changes and voices, the station also expressed gratitude for the contributions of several departing DJs. Jason Kramer, Jeremy Sole, José Galvan, Valida, and Travis Holcombe have dedicated years to KCRW and its listeners. Their impact on the station's sound and community is recognized and appreciated.
These comprehensive changes reflect KCRW's ongoing commitment to innovation and its mission to provide diverse, engaging music programming. The blend of new talent, expanded digital offerings, and interactive experiences aims to strengthen KCRW's position in the evolving media landscape and reinforce its connection with its audience.