Last fall, Gary Farmer visited the University of Montana campus. He noted the lack of a Native radio program after he asked Fredericka Hunter if there was a place to play his music. Later, he recounted that story while speaking at an evening event. I was in the audience. I thought, he’s making a good point about the importance of having Native voices on the airwaves. So, I raised my hand, got his attention and told Farmer, I’d check into getting a radio program going. I did. We are finally up and running after I put in an application to get a show on the air, the very first Native-themed program for KBGA on 89.9 FM. Here’s the link to Tribal Scene Radio.
I’ve posted a link here to last week’s show. The show this Friday will also be linked and archived on the KBGA Web site.
So far, it’s been a blast. I love being in the studio, interviewing guests, listening to new music and playing around with sound software. I look forward to putting together some great visual-radio pieces. I’ve already had three amazing guests on the show. First up was Gary Farmer who spoke about community radio. He’s one super smart guy. Next up is Dr. Arne Vainio, who made a documentary called “Walking into the Unknown.” He was a superb storyteller, great radio voice, too. He will be on the show Friday, March 12. Sam McCracken, Nike’s general manager for Native programs, was in the studio this week. He will be on the show next Friday. Since I’m new at radio, I expect there will be great changes in the program as we all learn this new medium. I’ve had some welcomed assistance from many people, including students and the managers at KBGA. Clark Grant, you are stellar! Thanks for all the help mister.
That’s all for now, folks!
Jodi Rave