Dear friends,
I am retiring from KNKX. My last day will be May 31, 2023.
This hasn’t been an easy decision. My position at this station has been a huge part of my life, and my identity, for almost 24 years.
I have so enjoyed everything I've been able to do on behalf of KNKX, especially connecting with listeners all along the way.
But I realize it’s time for me to retire, and I look forward to joining listeners in hearing some new, fresh voices on KNKX.
Joey Cohn, thank you for listening to the cassette tape (!) I sent to you 1998, and for taking a chance on me.
My initial “job interview” at this station was an all-day meeting with Nick Morrison and Dick Stein. It was the perfect introduction to the kind of radio station I wanted to join.
I survived that meeting, albeit with my sides aching from excessive laughter, so they hired me. Go figure.
In 1999 I started as a substitute jazz host, and then picked up two overnight "Jazz on the Grooveyard" shifts per week. I hosted the Saturday night All Blues program for 6 years, and went on to hosting Morning Jazz, then Afternoon Jazz, and eventually, Evening Jazz.
The Jazz Caliente segment on Thursday's Afternoon Jazz was my attempt to infuse more Latin Jazz and World Music rhythms into our mix, starting in 2012. A listener survey about Jazz Caliente was overwhelmingly positive, and the segment became an hour-long specialty show on Saturdays in 2016. It's been a real treat for me to build and host that show, and I'm delighted to be able to turn it over to the multi-talented Freddy "Fuego" Gonzalez.
To all of my colleagues, co-workers, and KNKX community partners, past and present: You do such amazing, important work every single day. I haven’t always acknowledged that, so I’m telling you now. I am so proud of everything we have accomplished together.
To the newcomers: You’re stepping into a place with a long, rich history of excellence. Bring your best.
To the local, national and international musicians and music educators who have been the main focus of my on-air shows and my online content: I continue to be in awe of your talent and dedication. Thank you for allowing me to showcase your music and your stories.
To KNKX listeners and supporters: I can’t possibly thank you enough. It has been a distinct honor and my greatest pleasure to share music and stories and events with you.
I'll be listening.
Here are a few memories:
