KDHX

The weekend of April 18-21 will see a gathering of some of the world’s best traditional Irish musicians for the Saint Louis Tionól.

This year marks the 26 year that brings musicians, dancers and singers from all over North America to take part in a four-day musical celebration that includes a ceili (dance), music, dance and ballad workshops, as well as two concerts, at the Focal Point in Maplewood and the Sheldon Concert Hall.

Pronounced “chun-awl,” tionól is the Irish word for a gathering and it describes the coming together from all over North America and Ireland of musicians intent on sharing their interest in the traditional music of the Celtic regions—music that came to North America with the first settlers and has grown into native genres such as old-time and bluegrass. 

For a quarter century, St. Louis has boasted one of the largest such gatherings in the United States.

“When it comes to Irish music events in North America, St Louis is definitely not flyover country,” said Andrew O’Brien, a Dublin-born fiddler and attorney who now lives in St. Louis. “It is an action-packed weekend of concerts, classes and sessions—informal Irish music jams—where the finest exponents of the art form are brought to St. Louis to play, teach and share. For one great weekend every year, St. Louis becomes a premium Irish culture hub and a place to be.”

Liz Knowles, an internationally recognized traditional Irish fiddle player and member of several bands, described it as an “in-between: a meeting place where people and music collide, bringing their collective knowledge and love of the instrument and their experience”. She went on to describe a weekend of concerts, workshops and sessions as all being part of a shared and interactive experience that makes the music come alive.

The St. Louis Tionól was born out of a meeting between Judy Stein, of the Focal Point, and musicians Michael “Piper” Cooney and Mike Mullins in 1997. The first year was a rousing success and the weekend has grown as people have become interested in their roots and had their hearts and minds captured by productions such as Riverdance. 

“By bringing together world class performers and teachers and hosting workshops, concerts and jam sessions, the St. Louis Tionól provides a much-needed link and pathway to pass along a tradition that many want to claim,” Mullins said. “With a total attendance of well over 3,000 since its inception, the St. Louis Tionól has become the event in the Midwest for lovers of traditional Irish music and is acknowledged as one of the events of the year for those interested in the music”. 

The highlight of the St. Louis Tionól will be a concert at the Sheldon Concert Hall on April 20, which will showcase our teachers who hail from Ireland and across North America. 

The Saturday concert begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available through the Sheldon or at the door. Children 12 and under are free. 

The weekend actually starts on Thursday, April 18 with a ceili and sessions at Pat Connolly’s Pub at Tamm and Oakland avenues. A ceili is lively social dance guaranteed to please. Jackie O’Riley will be teaching the dances as the evening progresses and music will be provided by our own ceili band. A session will take place that evening as well. More information is available at tionol.org

Workshops will be held Saturday, April 20th at St. Louis University High School. Both morning and afternoon workshops provide an excellent opportunity to learn new tunes, songs, and dances, not to mention techniques for all the instruments common to Irish music from master musicians. Newcomers are welcome; no experience is necessary to enjoy the dance or ballad workshops or learn a tune on the tin whistle or bodhrán (Irish drum). 

This year’s roster of teachers includes Liz Carroll, a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts’ National Heritage Fellowship Award and a Grammy Award nominee. And Liz Knowles, of the band Open the Door for Three, will be here along with Pat Broaders, who will teach ballads, and Kieran O’Hare on pipes. 

A central part of the weekend will be the iconic “sound of Ireland”, the uilleann (pronounced "illin”) bagpipes which have recently been placed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Guest pipers will include pre-eminent piper & winner of the coveted Gradam Ceoil Musician of the Year award for 2023, Mick O’Brien. We’re also thrilled to have Louise Mulcahy, a piper and flute player who’s won numerous awards and accolades as a musician and promotion of women pipers. Piper Ivan Goff, a native of Dublin and now living in New York will be joining us for the first time as well as piper Joey Abarta. 

The other instrument long associated with Ireland is the harp. This year, we’re very fortunate to have Máire Ní Chathasaigh who has been called the “doyenne of Irish harp players” (Scotland on Sunday) and “an absolute legend” (The Irish Echo). And in 2001 she was awarded the traditional musician of the year Gradam Ceoil TG4 accolade. She’ll be joined by guitarist Chris Newman who’s been described by BBC2 Radio as “one of the UK’s greatest guitarists.”

John Skelton, a longtime Tionól favorite and raconteur supreme, John Skelton will be teaching flute and we’ll have two of the finest whistle players in this part of the world, Kathleen Conneely and Frank Claudy, doing the honors in the whistle classes. We’re also delighted to have Kathleen’s sister, Pauline Ronan, joining us to teach tenor banjo.   

Liam O’Brien, from a great musical family in Clare will be coming in to teach concertina. And of course, there will be classes in Bodhrán with Chris Weddle. The Tionól includes several other workshops, all of which can be seen on tionol.org.

More information, including a schedule of all events, online workshop registration, and concert tickets can be found at tionol.org. 

What keeps the airwaves filled with music on KDHX? You do!

KDHX kicks off our month-long fundraising campaign with our Spring On-Air Drive. From March 4 to March 10, give as generously as you can to support this irreplaceable radio station.

Listener support ensures that everyone has access to the power of music and the joy of discovery. 

You can visit Support.KDHX.org to give a monthly or single gift or to donate a vehicle.

You can give via a Donor Advised Fund or by check by sending to:

KDHX 
3524 Washington Ave
St Louis, MO 63103

You can reach the Donor Connections department at 314-925-7529 or by email: donate@kdhx.org.

Thank you for your support of KDHX!

KDHX is a registered non-profit and is listed as Double Helix Corporation (DBA KDHX Community Media) with the IRS and the tax ID is 23-7170474.

With 2024 underway, the results of changes KDHX has implemented in the last year are starting to take shape. In support of its bold new vision to harness the power of music to create a better St. Louis, KDHX has embraced three commitments: to serve as a leader and convener to develop the St. Louis music industry, to use music to connect our region, and to amplify underrepresented voices in music. 

As part of that vision, KDHX grew and broadened its listening audience in 2023 as its initiatives began to resonate with new listeners and longtime fans alike. 2023 results of note include:

●    Online engagement was up 500 percent for ages 18-24 
●    Online listenership was up 43 percent 
●    Market share remained steady at 1.2 
●    KDHX saw 275 first-time donors come on board 
●    KDHX completed its switch to Community Centric Fundraising, which values equally all who engage in strengthening the community - volunteers, donors and staff 
●    KDHX added 26 new DJs
●    KDHX relaunched the Community Advisory Board and added several new members 
●    58 percent of KDHX’s DJs are from historically underrepresented backgrounds compared to 23 percent at the beginning of 2023 

"While it's no secret that we experienced a challenging year as we began implementing our new vision, we are so pleased to see these positive results," said Gary Pierson, President of KDHX Community Media Board of Directors. “We will work diligently to build on this success throughout 2024, including launching a new donor development program." 

Input from new listeners and donors has included comments such as:

●    “KDHX has better taste in music and more originality than any paid music subscription service.“ 
●    “I love that there are independent-minded DJs still playing a variety of music on the airwaves.“
●    “There's SO much good content.“ 

“We are seeing so much enthusiasm with our new direction, not just from previously underrepresented communities but from supporters across our listenership,” said KDHX Executive Director Kelly Wells. “We will continue to attract new listeners, donors and volunteers, and we will continue to work to instill confidence in our mission." 

As KDHX intentionally expands its “community” to include the entire St. Louis region, the station has created two new staff positions in 2023. Andrea Dunn was named Director of Volunteer Connections, and Ronnie Wisdom was named Director of Community Connections.

In addition, KDHX is pleased to announce that Tangazo will join the regular live broadcast lineup starting February 15. Tangazo is a group discussion-based program created as a podcast for KDHX in March 2018 by its host and producer, Hank Thompson.

“Tangazo is important to the African American community because it gives Black people an unbridled voice on issues that are important to our wellbeing,” said Thompson. “Tangazo will help build bridges of communication between the many groups that make up the St. Louis region.”

Join the new direction of KDHX by donating now at: Support.KDHX.org

KDHX is excited to announce that Tangazo will be joining the radio line-up! Tangazo will join the regular broadcast lineup starting February 15, 2024 on 88.1 KDHX. The live show will air each Thursday from Noon to 2 p.m. on 88.1 FM and worldwide at kdhx.org.

Tangazo, is a group discussion-based program created as a podcast for KDHX in March 2018 by its host and producer, Hank Thompson.

“Tangazo is important to the African American community because it gives Black people an unbridled voice on issues that are important to our wellbeing,” said Thompson, who was recently nominated for the National Black Radio Hall of Fame. “Tangazo will help build bridges of communication between the many groups that make up the St. Louis region.”

Thompson describes Tangazo as “a meeting place where we share ideas and explore efforts to improve our human conditions and quite simply make our lives better. All are welcome, none will be judged, but all are challenged to look beyond ourselves and our notions of how others think about issues of cultural​,​ political, and social significance.” 

With 148 podcast episodes already recorded, Tangazo will remain available in a podcast format, therefore extending its reach to an even wider audience. 

“We are extremely excited to have Tangazo join the radio line-up,” said KDHX Community Connections Director Ronnie Wisdom. “As we continue to ensure that the voices heard on KDHX truly reflect the entire listening audience, we know that Hank will provide a platform to bring even more of the community together in a space where meaningful discussions can take place.”

This main article is an approximate 8-minute read. Click here to read it in summary.

By Kelly Wells
KDHX Executive Director

I’m the executive director of KDHX and have led this organization as we work to embody our earliest mission of building community through media with diverse and independent voices. KDHX was founded specifically to serve underrepresented and underserved people in our listening area. 

Like many organizations, KDHX embarked upon a process of recommitment and change in 2020. Together with 800 community voices, we created a strategic plan to name specific ways we would increase our learning around racial equity and ensure that we provided programming to connect to all the people in our listening area. 

The expansion of music discovery continues in full force at KDHX. We begin 2024 with a renewed commitment to being the place in the St. Louis region that uses the power of music to engage and unite people across the many communities we serve – a source of music discovery for everyone. 

In the past few months, we welcomed 26 new DJs who are filling the airwaves with a wealth of new music and sounds. In early 2023, 23% of our volunteers were from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. By the end of 2023, that number increased to 58%. We have seen our listenership increase on our livestream by 43% and online engagement of  18-24 year olds go up by 500%. We spent much of 2023 developing an engagement plan so that we – staff, board, and volunteers – have an opportunity to be physically present and proximate to people in the St. Louis community.

2023 was a transitional and transformational year at KDHX and wasn’t without its challenges. Making real change in any organization is tricky. Making change in a listener-supported, volunteer-heavy radio station makes things even trickier when some individual volunteers, listeners, and donors have their own ideas of exactly how change should or shouldn’t happen.

Due to the efforts of a small group who believe KDHX should be their way or no way at all, we’ve gone from an organization with community support for transformative change to an organization that has parted ways with a quarter of our volunteer team, lost over a third of our donors, and currently face a financial struggle that will take a massive effort to overcome.

The Story

This isn’t the first time a group of community members has weaponized dissatisfaction at KDHX - most notably in the behavior and actions of a group of volunteers who have long professed to believe in our mission while, at the same time, centering their own perspective on how to fulfill it. In early 2023, we parted ways with a single volunteer. In response, a handful of volunteers began a secret campaign, reaching out to other volunteers to strongarm the board into firing me for leading such a decision. When they felt they had enough support, they went public with their reasons for why I shouldn’t lead this organization.

I was friends with and admired many of the volunteers who demanded my firing. I understood their passion for KDHX. They wanted what they thought was best for the organization and felt that a “lighter touch” was a better way to institute change. This resurfaced a longstanding pain point for KDHX – the battle over who had ownership of KDHX’s mission. It also surfaced a deep divide between lip service and follow-through for actual change. 

The tactics of this group of primarily white and male volunteers were seen as silencing and destructive by other volunteers, many of whom were women and people of color who had come to KDHX to reflect and serve the underrepresented and underserved communities our mission and commitments require. 

I felt all along that this frustrated group of volunteers would adjust their thinking and/or demands if we could engage in open, honest conversation. Unfortunately, despite repeated attempts, we could not convince them to engage in good faith conversations that sought a resolution other than what they demanded, which had expanded from my firing to the removal of the board president for supporting me. And a community most served by this group of volunteers followed their lead, outraged that a leader, especially a woman leader, could have the power to make decisions out of line with their specific desires.

In the following months, this group of volunteers embarked upon a public campaign of disparagement, spreading false information and allegations, filing frivolous lawsuits, and personally attacking staff, board members, and DJs who didn’t “side” with them. They used the age-old method of manipulating community mindset through media spin, threats, and backchannels, naming their own superiority while dehumanizing whomever they had to in order to advance their agenda.

This manipulation incited outrageous behavior by their followers: publicly sharing the personal information of volunteers and staff, making death threats to staff, threatening staff and board members’ families, threatening board member’s livelihoods by calling their places of work and demanding they be fired, sending strangers to show up at my house screaming and banging on my door.

In contradiction to the narrow perspective of that group of former volunteers, a majority group of long-time and brand-new volunteers are working alongside us to advance opportunities for everyone. They bring to the airwaves an attitude of welcoming people in rather than creating an exclusive club. And they’ve been in the crosshairs of this battle in ways they never dreamed or asked for.

That brings us to our current situation. A situation that features mostly older, white people publicly attacking an institution they “care” about, willing for it to fail rather than “look” different than they would like. It’s deeply uncomfortable to watch and raises the question of who KDHX has been serving and how that service advanced opportunities for one group that we didn’t advance for everyone. If we weren’t fully awake to these realities before, we certainly are now.

Regardless of the difficulty of the situation, knowing what we stand for is easy. Volunteers, listeners, and donors should have a voice in the direction of KDHX, but one segment of the community should never speak for everyone.

Let me be crystal clear: We will always be grateful for the time and talent every volunteer shares with KDHX and the listeners and donors who have been faithful to us through the years. 

When we started 2023, we had plans to part ways with one volunteer. Instead, we parted ways with thirteen volunteers; others followed them in parting ways with us. That wasn’t the plan for the year, but it became an opportunity to accelerate the change we expected would take years. Instead, it took a few months. 

The Opportunity

In 2020, we started asking ourselves questions like: How do we shift the organizational culture of KDHX so that all voices are heard? How do we bring along the folks who may not be excited by the shift? What work do we need to do as an institution so that people with different life experiences can thrive at our organization? What and who do we mean when we say “community?” And perhaps most importantly, how do we engage in radical relationship with each other, even when we disagree? 

My experience with this process of change has taught me to reframe my understanding of conflict and resolution. I used to think that conflict was negative, change should be peaceful, and resolution looked like everyone being on board. Instead, I’ve learned that conflict is necessary, real change is and should be uncomfortable, and resolution doesn’t always look like we think it will.

In light of that understanding, we must ask ourselves what we are willing to sacrifice to follow through on real change. Will we stand in our integrity and our intrinsic values, or will we sacrifice true stewardship by making decisions based on the desires and perspectives of a few? Are we willing to make real change even if we lose people who have been part of the core of this institution? I’d rather not make that sacrifice. I’d rather everyone came along with us. However, KDHX is here to serve the broad patchwork of communities that make up our listening audience and we no longer grant ourselves the choice of serving only some of them. 

The Practice

Radical relationship means that we come together in love. In the words of social psychologist Erich Fromm, love requires care, responsibility, respect, and knowledge. Love “is not a resting place.” It “is a constant challenge” that requires faith, discipline, and patience. We have to practice it.

We know that as we continue with our work, this group of antagonists will continue to harass, bully, spread misinformation, and encourage hate. Meanwhile, we will continue to move forward with unyielding integrity, unwavering independence, and love.

We are building a KDHX with people who are willing to release their own ideas in service of what’s better for the whole. Who understand the importance of connecting with communities beyond their own. Who believe that the more voices and perspectives we have at the table make this organization stronger and better. Who are committed to being in radical relationship with each other because they understand that KDHX is here for one reason. We are here to make sure that we are reflecting the communities we serve, welcoming them in, and strengthening the broader community of KDHX together. 

The partnership that is KDHX requires that we all do our part. It requires the staff and board to steward the mission, vision, and values. It requires the volunteers to make magic happen on and off the air every day in service to community. It requires supporters who believe that KDHX should be free and accessible to all and who believe that KDHX is vital to a thriving, whole community.

As a community organization, KDHX relies on individual donations, and our sustainability is seriously threatened. At this moment, we are fundraising to fill the gap left by people who discontinued their donations, and we are rebuilding our operating reserve. If you believe that KDHX is an irreplaceable cultural institution, donate now at Support.KDHX.org.

We’ve always said that KDHX is a radical concept requiring radical partnership. I believe that as we actualize the practice of radical relationship, the best is yet to come. I invite you to join us in love as we use the power of music to engage and unite individuals and communities.

2023 was a transitional and transformational year at KDHX. We head into 2024 with a renewed commitment to being the place in the St. Louis region that uses the power of music to engage and unite people across the many communities we serve–a source of music discovery for everyone.
 
Will you renew your commitment to KDHX in 2024?

Anyone who has listened to KDHX over the last 36 years knows that change has been a constant at KDHX. We recognize last year’s changes were experienced by our listeners in a myriad of ways. Our team is committed to the core belief that KDHX is a place where the impact of every volunteer, every donor, and every listener is valued. 
 
The expansion of music discovery continues in full force at KDHX. In 2023, we welcomed 24 new DJs who are filling the airwaves with a wealth of new music and sounds. In early 2023, 23% of our volunteers were from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds–by the end of 2023, that number increased to 58%. We are excited to report that listenership has increased on our livestream by 43%.

We will be honest: the ripple effects of the changes that occurred at KDHX last year have not been small. Some donors withdrew support as we recommitted to our mission of uniting the community through music.
 
Your support is more critical than ever. 
 
Christine, a longtime listener and donor, shared this: “I miss a bunch of the shows we lost but I am holding out on the restructuring. It doesn’t sound like the KDHX I first fell in love with but man, am I still here for it. We aren’t here for the politics, and if we are here for the music, all we can do is patiently and lovingly listen with open minds, hearts, and ears.”

We thank every volunteer, every donor, and every listener who has stayed the course with us. Now, we are asking you to give generously to KDHX, and collectively, we will ensure KDHX remains a source of music discovery for all for years to come. 
 
Please continue your support of KDHX today. 
 
You can give a single or monthly gift at Support.KDHX.org. If you currently support KDHX with a monthly gift, please consider increasing your monthly donation by $1, $5 or $10. Thank you!

Andrea
KDHX Donor Connections

The Mercy Hospital St. Louis & KDHX Blood Drive runs Monday, December 13, through Friday, December 15, 2023

Please make an appointment by calling 314-251-GIVE (4483) or schedule an online appointment at MercyBloodDonor.net  

Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcome.

All donors will be required to bring a state-issued form of ID. 

Do not donate blood if in the past 10 days: 

•  you have tested positive or had symptoms of COVID-19 infection. 
•  you have been within six feet of someone for greater than 15 minutes who has tested positive or has symptoms of COVID-19 virus.

Mercy Hospital St. Louis Blood Donation Program
Mercy is the only hospital in Missouri that is mobile for its blood supply. When you give blood or platelets, you give someone the precious gift of life. Every day, people of all ages and from all walks of life will unexpectedly need blood. They could be accident victims, cancer patients, someone undergoing surgery, or tiny babies in the neonatal intensive care unit. They could be someone you know. Your caring spirit and the time given to donate blood can help save someone's life. We value your time and your contribution.

St. Louis Blood Donor Services
The Blood Donor Program Mercy Hospital in St. Louis offers whole blood donor collection, autologous and directed blood collection, and apheresis platelet collection.

Over the next two months you are going to be seeing messages and hearing from many of KDHX’s volunteers telling you why they are “here for the music.”

If you tune in to KDHX for the music and the connection please give a Year-End gift today. You can give a single gift of any amount or start a monthly gift of $10, $20 or $30. Visit Support.KDHX.org to give today.

I'm Dan The Waterman, host of Heavy Rotation. I’m here for the music. KDHX provides me with a chance to discover and share new ideas and sounds that challenge my sensibilities. It serves as a shining beacon of musical education for St. Louis, the country,
and the world.

I'm DJ Boogie Ray, host of The Old Soul Harmony Show. I’m here for the music. KDHX gives me the opportunity to share the music that doesn’t get played anywhere else on the airwaves.

I'm DJ Lady Jock, co-host of Time Traveling My Way. I’m here for the music. Music is therapeutic. It brings joy and life and makes me want to dance to the beat. KDHX is important because it connects people from all over the world.

I’m Rebel Mae, co-host of Thick as Thieves. And I’m Professor Elle. We’re here for the music!
Being here for the music is the shiver of goosebumps you feel when music overwhelms your senses. It’s a prayer, a meditation, a moment of zen.

Hi, my name is Mark, host of The Crooked Spire. I’m here for the music. I love and am fascinated by the music that I've been given the chance to play, and want to share those emotions with others. I’m delighted to be a volunteer at KDHX. KDHX is essential for those of us who want to wander down different musical pathways.

Greetings, this is G.Wiz, co-host of Time Traveling My Way. Just so you know, I’m here for the music because "I am music & music is me" So when the music stops, so does all things with soul, and I have no intentions of losing my SOUL! 

Hi, my name is Ryan, host of The American Confluence, and I'm here for the music. Music is powerful. It has the ability to make us feel, to bring back memories, to calm our minds, to excite and inspire, and simply get us through the day.

Hi, my name is Pat Wolfe, host of The Interstate. I'm here for the music. Music is life, and I love sharing songs that make me happy with the hope that it will bring you joy as well. Over the years, I have discovered so many artists that I would never have known about, thanks to KDHX.

Hi, my name is DJ ‘nit, host of Revolution Rockers. I’m here for the music because music holds the power to unite. Growing up speaking both Spanish and English, music became my most comfortable language. It narrates and serenades my life.

Hello, my name is DJ Kut, host of Kut’s Klassicz. I’m here for the music because I now have the same feeling I did when I started college radio in 1990, serving the listener's ears with new, different, and diverse music.

I'm the Soopaman DJ Speed, host of The Boombox. I'm here for the music because it’s a vessel to lift our spirits, calm us down, and send us to a “real good feel good” moment. KDHX has been a staple for me since its inception, and it has allowed me to provide an honored service. 

I’m Jan, host of Global Grooves, and I’m here for the music. Sharing global music on KDHX with you is a privilege and a joy. I’m here for the music that expands our horizons.

Hi, I am Your Lady Edie B, host of R.S.V.P. real songs, very personal. I’m here for the music, it feeds the soul. At KDHX, I have the freedom to create moods and paint pictures without restraints. KDHX gives music lovers like me a home. 

KDHX connects audiences to the organizations that are working to make St. Louis a better place.

Visit our Community Connections page to read our most recent Community Spotlights and learn about these organizations' fundamental role in creating more equitable and thriving communities.

Do you know a nonprofit organization that is making St. Louis a better place? Let us know about a nonprofit organization important to you so we can spotlight their excellent work for our audience. 

KDHX gives local artists a voice.

From our concert listings and on-air record spins to our Listen Live & Local series, KDHX gives local artists a chance to be heard. If you’re a local artist whose music has not been played on KDHX, share your music with us, so we can share it with our audience.

Tell us more about yourself

What's your sound? What audience do you appeal to? Fill out this Local Artist Connection form so that we can learn more about your project.

Send us your music

We would love to add your music to the KDHX Music Library. That gives KDHX volunteers access to your music so that they can learn more about your sound and share it with the listening audience.

Drop off or mail your music to: 

KDHX 
Attn: Music Library
3524 Washington Ave 
Saint Louis, MO 63103

You may also choose to submit your digital music files here.

KDHX gives local artists a voice.

From our concert listings and on-air record spins to our Listen Live & Local series, KDHX gives local artists a chance to be heard. If you’re a local artist whose music has not been played on KDHX, share your music with us, so we can share it with our audience.

Tell us more about yourself

What's your sound? What audience do you appeal to? Fill out this Local Artist Connection form so that we can learn more about your project.

Send us your music

We would love to add your music to the KDHX Music Library. That gives KDHX volunteers access to your music so that they can learn more about your sound and share it with the listening audience.

Drop off or mail your music to: 

KDHX 
Attn: Music Library
3524 Washington Ave 
Saint Louis, MO 63103

You may also choose to submit your digital music files here.

“Kut’s Klassikz” scheduled for Thursday evenings

Today, KDHX announced St. Louis Radio Legend DJ Kut will join the station later this month. With a career spanning over three decades in radio and as a touring DJ for prominent R&B and hip hop artists like Nelly and the St. Lunatics, DJ Kut is a veteran of St. Louis’ music scene. His new show, “Kut’s Klassikz,” debuts on KDHX on Thursday, October 26, and will air every Thursday evening from 4-7 p.m., featuring a blend of funk, hip-hop, reggae, R&B, and soul.

“KDHX is about bringing good music to the community of true music lovers,” said DJ Kut. “I’m excited about teaming up with KDHX and joining my good friends G-Wiz, Lady Jock, DJ Speed, Iceman and others. St. Louis needs a breath of musical fresh air. I can’t wait to release unrestricted mixes on the airwaves starting October 26th.”

Previously, DJ Kut resonated with listeners as a host on St. Louis radio stations such as 95.5 The Lou, Majic 108, and 100.3 The Beat. His journey in radio began at KCFV 89.5 FM, based in St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley.

Simultaneously, KDHX announced “Time Traveling My Way,” a new Saturday morning show from 7-11 a.m. Two current KDHX DJs will host the show, DJ G.Wiz of “Traveling at the Speed of Sound” and DJ LadyJock of “Music My Way”. Listeners can expect a mix of classic and contemporary tracks.

The upcoming “Kut’s Klassikz” replaces the slot previously held by sheHealz Radio hosted by DJ sheBEATZ. On Thursday, DJ sheBEATZ announced she is moving on from her Thursday evening show to focus on future endeavors. To see the full program calendar, visit KDHX.org.

“I'm beyond grateful for my time at KDHX,” said DJ sheBEATZ. “A big thank you to the station, DJ G.Wiz, and all of my listeners, my heartBEATZ!!”  

About KDHX:  KDHX harnesses the power of music to connect our region. KDHX is committed to serving as a leader and convener to develop the St. Louis music industry and to amplify underrepresented voices in music. KDHX is a non-profit (501c3) organization providing independent, commercial-free, listener-supported community radio to the entire St. Louis region and a global online audience. For 36 years, the 43,000-watt station has broadcasted 24/7 on 88.1 and online since the early 2000s at KDHX.org.

Sound Diplomacy Report Validates KDHX’s New Vision

ST. LOUIS (Sept. 22, 2023) - Today, KDHX announced a bold new vision that commits to harnessing the power of music to create a better St. Louis. The community radio station’s new vision outlines three commitments. These commitments are rooted in KDHX's existing strategic plan and aligned to address many recommendations outlined in the recent Sound Diplomacy study. KDHX will intentionally strengthen St. Louis's musical landscape by committing to:

● Serve as a leader and convener to develop the St. Louis music industry. KDHX is
committed to collaborating with organizations across sectors, from arts foundations and
non-profit organizations to local businesses, using its airwaves and centrally located
building in Grand Center. These partnerships will amplify the social, cultural, and
economic impact of music in St. Louis.
● Use music to connect our region. Music has the power to connect people from
different backgrounds and with different interests. KDHX commits to using its platform to
unite the St. Louis region.
● Amplify underrepresented voices in music. KDHX pledges to expand the spotlight on
local artists, particularly those from underserved communities and genres in St. Louis.

"The Sound Diplomacy study has reaffirmed what we've always known — that while St. Louis has a deep musical soul, there's untapped talent and a need for more inclusivity,” said Gary Pierson, President of KDHX Community Media Board of Directors. “Change is challenging but essential for our community to grow."

The Sound Diplomacy study offers a well-rounded examination of St. Louis’ music ecosystem and its limitations. The report validates KDHX’s new vision, emphasizing the station’s role as a force for good in the region.

“This study clearly outlines how KDHX, as a community radio station, can answer the call to make St. Louis a better place for everyone, especially musicians,” said longtime KDHX supporter and former St. Louis Mayor Vincent C. Schoemehl.

“There is so much that’s exciting about a new direction for KDHX,” said KDHX Executive Director Kelly Wells. “Since our strategic plan began in 2021, KDHX has been reevaluating its role in St. Louis. The changes being made will build KDHX into the station the St. Louis music community and music industry needs it to be.

Operational Changes
As a result of its redefined vision, KDHX is modifying its Fall 2023 programming. Today, KDHX announced the end of ten weekly programs and the respective volunteer DJs have been dismissed. An additional 12 volunteers must undergo mediated discussions to continue in their roles. The volunteers who were dismissed displayed a pattern of behavior that was detrimental to KDHX. Currently, KDHX has 80 volunteer DJs.

“KDHX is committed to leveraging the unifying power of music to better St. Louis,” said James Hill, Vice President of KDHX Community Media Board of Directors. “While this new vision is exciting, it has not been universally embraced within our volunteer base, including some who have been with us for many years. Regrettably, we've had to separate from volunteers whose actions have compromised the station's financial stability. These are challenging but crucial decisions as we advance KDHX's mission.”

Next week KDHX begins their annual Fall Fund Drive. During this time, KDHX will be taking to their platform to share more about the vision they are asking listeners to financially support.

About KDHX
KDHX is a non-profit (501c3) organization, providing independent, commercial-free, listener-supported community radio to the entire St. Louis region and global online audience. For 36 years, the 43,000-watt station has broadcasted 24/7 on 88.1 and in the early 2000’s added an online stream.

KDHX’s 2021-2024 Strategic Plan can be found here:
https://kdhx.org/articles/inside-kdhx/2164-kdhx-strategic-plan

Sound Diplomacy, which conducted the St. Louis study in association with the Kranzberg Arts Foundation and the Regional Arts Commission, provides research and recommendations on enhancing economic, social, and cultural growth. The full report can be found here:

1005-SOUND-DIPLOMACY-St-Louis-Executive-Summary_8.5-x-11_V3.pdf .

KDHX Executive Director Kelly Wells, and Gary Pierson, the president of the board of directors will be answering your questions and concerns live on the air on Friday, September 29 at Noon CT.

KDHX knows that the listening audience and donors have questions about KDHX at the moment. Wells and Pierson will address as many questions as possible.

If you would like to ask a question, please click this link.

The KDHX Fall Drive is going on now and we are asking for your support.

Your financial support ensures that the power of music and connection is always available to you and to KDHX’s entire listening audience. Join us in deepening our connection within the St. Louis music scene and harnessing the power of music to unite individuals and communities for a better St. Louis. Visit Support.KDHX.org.

Individual support makes up the largest share of KDHX’s funding, keeps KDHX independent and available to everyone. Give as generously as you can today. 

You can give a single or a monthly gift at Support.KDHX.org

If you are a current monthly donor, you can increase the amount of your monthly gift. 

We also take donations of real estate and vehicles.

You can send a gift via check or through a Donor Advised Fund to:
KDHX
3524 Washington Ave
St Louis, MO 63103

Thank you for your support of KDHX’s independent programming! 

As we welcome the fall season, we have a lot to be excited about at KDHX. Personally, I am excited for college football season to kick off and to cheer on my alma mater - the Mississippi State Bulldogs. 

This fall at KDHX, we are excited to usher in a new season of opportunities. The shared love of independent, diverse, and local music bonds KDHX listeners, supporters, volunteers, and staff. KDHX is one of the country's most enduring and successful independent community radio stations because it unites us with the power of music and the joy of discovery. 

Looking forward, KDHX continues to evolve and grow. We have taken steps to make the station welcoming and make sure the station showcases a wide variety of musical styles and genres. Off the air, here are some ways you can engage with us:

Community Events
This fall, we are excited to engage with listeners at community events like Music at the Intersection on September 9-10 and Tower Grove Pride on September 23-24. Visit our table to say hello and grab the latest KDHX sticker!

New Director of Volunteer Connections
Recognizing the vital role of volunteers in our 36-year history, we are enhancing the volunteer experience at KDHX. On August 15, Andrea Dunn, current Director of Donor Relations, took charge as the first Director of Volunteer Connections, proactively planning social events, gathering feedback, and hosting one-on-one meetings to ensure our volunteers are valued. 

Currently Seeking New DJs
KDHX is welcoming new DJs to the airwaves. Apply now on KDHX.org. DJ Jackie T premiered her new show, “Full Circle” on August 13, and DJ Nick kicks off “Get Around Sound” on September 14. We have DJs in training that will be added to the airwaves soon, continuing KDHX’s 36-year history of increasing community participation in radio so that diverse and independent voices enrich our audiences' perspectives.

Listen Live & Local
Our monthly Listen Live & Local series, generously supported by our donors, shines a spotlight on local talent. Catch live in-studio performances and interviews with KDHX DJs on 88.1 and our YouTube Channel. Join us on September 12 for a session with Orangetree. 

As we move forward, the power of music and the joy of discovery remains at the heart of KDHX. Your involvement, whether as a listener, donor, or volunteer, fuels our mission to keep independent programming free and accessible. 

Excited to move into year 36 of independent and listener-supported community radio,

Kelly K. Wells
Executive Director

We are excited to announce that Ronnie Wisdom and Andrea Dunn will be taking on new roles at KDHX. 

Both of these role shifts reflect priorities in our strategic plan around community engagement and volunteers.

Ronnie’s role will shift to Director of Community Connections. As the director of the community connections department, Ronnie will continue much of the work of his current department while adding two focuses: leading the continued development and implementation of our community engagement plan and leading the community advisory board. 

Andrea will be leading a new department for KDHX: Volunteer Connections. Long in the works, the volunteer connections department will strengthen the connection between volunteers and each other, volunteers and staff, and volunteers and the community. 

Andrea has chosen to take on this new role to fulfill her vision of creating a culture for volunteers in which they can thrive in their roles and to create a culture of belonging among all volunteers. 

Read more from Andrea about the new volunteer connections department.

The community connections and volunteer connections departments will deeply collaborate to expand and engage audiences and community partners, support volunteers in their roles at KDHX, recruit new volunteers, and connect volunteers to KDHX partners and KDHX-supported community events.

Andrea’s shift away from fundraising will open the position of Director of Donor Connections. Our fundraising calendar is in place for the rest of the year, and with the support of Ronnie, Kelly, and other staff, she will continue to guide our fundraising efforts until a new director is hired. We remain committed to the community-centric fundraising model and are excited to add new people to our staff team who align with those values.

In partnership, 
Kelly, Andrea, Ronnie

Contribute to the joys of summertime listening by becoming a KDHX Sunshine Donor.

Sunshine Donors help provide the extra support the station needs during the summer months by giving their annual gift in June or July every year.

In addition to all the great music you’ll hear this summer, KDHX will also continue to connect you to your community and help to keep your calendar filled with events and live music in our region all summer long. Wherever you happen to be in the coming months – sitting poolside, out in the yard, on the road, or working hard – KDHX is here for you on the live stream at KDHX.org and at 88.1 FM. 

Please give as generously as you can this summer! Listener support makes everything that KDHX provides possible.

Visit support.KDHX.org to give a monthly or a single gift, to donate a vehicle or to donate real estate. 

You can also give a gift via Donor Advised Fund or an IRA Distribution. 

KDHX
3524 Washington Ave
St Louis, MO 63103

You can reach Donor Relations at: 314-925-7529 or donate@kdhx.org

KDHX is a registered non-profit and is listed as Double Helix Corporation (DBA KDHX Community Media) with the IRS and the tax ID is 23-7170474.

How is KDHX doing financially?

KDHX has had a special focus on organizational financial health since 2015. In that time, KDHX has cleared over $2M of debt, established a cash reserve, had 6 “clean” annual federal audits, and invested resources back into radio programming. It is the fiduciary responsibility of the executive director and board to ensure the organization is financially healthy. KDHX went through a period of difficult financial times that called for direct action to re-establish financial health.

Read more…

Can I see KDHX's financial statements? 

KDHX's financial reports are made public on our website. Our annual audited financial statements and IRS 990 tax forms from the four years prior are posted.

Read more…

Why did KDHX move from the building on Magnolia? 

KDHX moved from 3504 Magnolia to 3524 Washington Ave in December of 2013. Magnolia had been the home of KDHX for more than 20 years. KDHX moved for several reasons.

Read more…

What happened to The Stage?

The Stage at KDHX is no longer a venue operated by KDHX. KDHX owns the building and leases the first floor, which contains a venue and bar, to Kranzberg Arts Foundation (KAF), which programs and staffs the space, now called Central Stage. There are two main reasons that KDHX no longer programs The Stage.

Read more…

What happened to the Folk School? 

The Folk School, as a full-fledged music school, is no longer a program of KDHX. There are a few reasons for this.

Read more…

When did Kelly Wells become Executive Director?

Kelly Wells has served as executive director of KDHX since September 2016. As executive director, Kelly works to cultivate the growth and transformation of KDHX to be people-centered, connected, and clear about collective vision and values.

Read more… 

How much money does KDHX spend on consultants?

KDHX partners with consultants in three ways. For specific projects like strategic planning. For expert guidance around specific priorities like building anti-racist capacity. For human resources support. In 2022, KDHX spent less than 1% of its operating budget on consultants.

Read more… 

Why does KDHX use 3rd party facilitators for difficult conversations?

KDHX began partnering with the Conflict Resolution Center (CRC) of St. Louis in 2021. CRC is a nonprofit dedicated to helping the St. Louis community resolve conflicts and disputes more peacefully. KDHX established the partnership for a variety of reasons.

Read more…

What was the Station Renewal Project?

In 2007, KDHX received a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). CPB initiated a two-phase Station Renewal Project to assist a limited number of public radio stations that were considered “at risk” stations because they were not meeting CPB expectations for listenership or financial support from listeners. KDHX fell into this category and was at risk of losing CPB funding. KDHX applied for and was granted a Station Renewal Project Grant, which was a two-year, $234,000 capacity-building grant.

Read more… 

Why doesn’t KDHX use the term “member”?

KDHX promotes inclusivity. KDHX has donors and supporters rather than members because at KDHX, the amount of money or the amount of time a partner can contribute is not the only measurement of someone’s investment in or commitment to KDHX nor will it have undue influence on the direction of the station.

Read more…

What benefits do Donors receive? 

A financial gift to KDHX ensures independent programming is available for all listeners when tuning into 88.1 FM or KDHX.org. Additionally, every donor at KDHX is a part of the Fan Club. The Fan Club is a monthly email that connects donors to music discovery by highlighting songs and videos recorded at KDHX Studios.

Read More...

What is Community-Centric Fundraising? 

In the last several years, KDHX has adopted a new model of fundraising known as Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF). Community-Centric Fundraising is a fundraising model grounded in equity and social justice. The ten core principles of CCF serve as a starting point for organizations to begin their CCF journey. KDHX is adapting the core principles of CCF to reflect how they show up at KDHX.

Read More… 

What is the process for adding new members to the board of directors?

Board members are appointed by the board or elected by the associate members (active volunteers) of KDHX. The Board maintains Board Expectations to guide the board’s work and to consider new board members. The Board regularly reviews the Board Expectations to ensure that they serve the needs of the organization and its commitments to increased board diversity.

Read more…

How is KDHX doing financially?

KDHX has had a special focus on organizational financial health since 2015. In that time, KDHX has cleared over $2M of debt, established a cash reserve, had 6 “clean” annual federal audits, and invested resources back into radio programming. It is the fiduciary responsibility of the executive director and board to ensure the organization is financially healthy. KDHX went through a period of difficult financial times that called for direct action to re-establish financial health.

Read more…

Can I see KDHX's financial statements? 

KDHX's financial reports are made public on our website. Our annual audited financial statements and IRS 990 tax forms from the four years prior are posted.

Read more…

Why did KDHX move from the building on Magnolia? 

KDHX moved from 3504 Magnolia to 3524 Washington Ave in December of 2013. Magnolia had been the home of KDHX for more than 20 years. KDHX moved for several reasons.

Read more…

What happened to The Stage?

The Stage at KDHX is no longer a venue operated by KDHX. KDHX owns the building and leases the first floor, which contains a venue and bar, to Kranzberg Arts Foundation (KAF), which programs and staffs the space, now called Central Stage. There are two main reasons that KDHX no longer programs The Stage.

Read more…

What happened to the Folk School? 

The Folk School, as a full-fledged music school, is no longer a program of KDHX. There are a few reasons for this.

Read more…

When did Kelly Wells become Executive Director?

Kelly Wells has served as executive director of KDHX since September 2016. As executive director, Kelly works to cultivate the growth and transformation of KDHX to be people-centered, connected, and clear about collective vision and values.

Read more… 

How much money does KDHX spend on consultants?

KDHX partners with consultants in three ways. For specific projects like strategic planning. For expert guidance around specific priorities like building anti-racist capacity. For human resources support. In 2022, KDHX spent less than 1% of its operating budget on consultants.

Read more… 

Why does KDHX use 3rd party facilitators for difficult conversations?

KDHX began partnering with the Conflict Resolution Center (CRC) of St. Louis in 2021. CRC is a nonprofit dedicated to helping the St. Louis community resolve conflicts and disputes more peacefully. KDHX established the partnership for a variety of reasons.

Read more…

What was the Station Renewal Project?

In 2007, KDHX received a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). CPB initiated a two-phase Station Renewal Project to assist a limited number of public radio stations that were considered “at risk” stations because they were not meeting CPB expectations for listenership or financial support from listeners. KDHX fell into this category and was at risk of losing CPB funding. KDHX applied for and was granted a Station Renewal Project Grant, which was a two-year, $234,000 capacity-building grant.

Read more… 

Why doesn’t KDHX use the term “member”?

KDHX promotes inclusivity. KDHX has donors and supporters rather than members because at KDHX, the amount of money or the amount of time a partner can contribute is not the only measurement of someone’s investment in or commitment to KDHX nor will it have undue influence on the direction of the station.

Read more…

What benefits do Donors receive? 

A financial gift to KDHX ensures independent programming is available for all listeners when tuning into 88.1 FM or KDHX.org. Additionally, every donor at KDHX is a part of the Fan Club. The Fan Club is a monthly email that connects donors to music discovery by highlighting songs and videos recorded at KDHX Studios.

Read More...

What is Community-Centric Fundraising? 

In the last several years, KDHX has adopted a new model of fundraising known as Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF). Community-Centric Fundraising is a fundraising model grounded in equity and social justice. The ten core principles of CCF serve as a starting point for organizations to begin their CCF journey. KDHX is adapting the core principles of CCF to reflect how they show up at KDHX.

Read More… 

What is the process for adding new members to the board of directors?

Board members are appointed by the board or elected by the associate members (active volunteers) of KDHX. The Board maintains Board Expectations to guide the board’s work and to consider new board members. The Board regularly reviews the Board Expectations to ensure that they serve the needs of the organization and its commitments to increased board diversity.

Read more…