New year, new programming, same KAXE

KAXE is rolling out new and revamped programming designed to deepen the connection the community radio station has built since 1976. KAXE will stay true to its roots of being radio for the people and by the people with handpicked music and personal playlists, engaging conversations and authentic storytelling, interviews and magical trivia moments.

At the heart of these changes is Headwaters, a new weekday music program that reflects the station's commitment to great music and meaningful community connections.

Starting January 6th, Headwaters will air Monday through Friday at 9 a.m. with a rebroadcast at 10 p.m. This two-hour program will provide a vibrant soundtrack for listeners' mornings, offering a thoughtful mix of music, interviews and timely content.

The mission of Headwaters is simple: Connect listeners to the music they love and the place they call home.

Megan Buffington / Kari Hedlund

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Contributed

On Headwaters, you'll hear:

• A rich mix of music: 60% new releases and 40% classic tracks from the KAXE library and hosts' personal collections
• Monday Request Line: Continuing the spirit of Mixtape, opportunities for listener interaction and curated weekly themes
• Timely music news: Celebrating artist milestones, surprise album drops and noteworthy events
• Conversations and interviews: Engaging chats with musicians, producers, volunteers and listeners
• Places and events: Spotlighting upcoming shows, local record stores and live music venues
• Slice of Green Cheese: The much-adored weekday segment moves to 9:45 a.m. but keeps the same fun, interactive trivia
• Album of the Week: A featured record gets the spotlight with additional discussion and analysis
• Monthly Music Recap: Much like the Music Team's year-end conversation, Director Kari Hedlund and producers and hosts Malachy Koons and Dan Gannon will chat each month about standout tracks and notable releases
  

Kari Hedlund - Megan Buffington

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KAXE

The widely known and loved CenterStage Minnesota program is evolving into Minnesota Mixtape with Malachy Koons. This one-hour show, made possible by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund of Minnesota, will air Fridays at 10 a.m. and Saturdays at 3 p.m.

Minnesota Mixtape will showcase and support the Minnesota music scene by highlighting the diverse musical talent that exists in our state. It will connect listeners and community members through information, interviews and carefully curated playlists.

In line with KAXE’s broader station-wide goals, Minnesota Mixtape will stay committed to equitable playlists that give fair representation regardless of gender, race, background and sexuality. The program promotes the diverse musicians, culture and communities that make up our state.

The beloved On the River is moving times and expanding to seven days a week. KAXE's signature volunteer-hosted program will continue to reflect a mix of new and old rock, folk, blues, jazz and music from around the world, with a continued commitment to equitable playlists.

Hosted by trained volunteers who share a deep love for music, On the River promises to remain a cornerstone of the KAXE listening experience.

On the River will air weekdays at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m.

KAXE Staff

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KAXE Contributed

The History of Jazz will deliver deep dives into the distinctly American art form Saturdays at noon and Sundays at 4 p.m. Volunteer host and jazz enthusiast Paul Kivi will journey through jazz history exploring legendary artists like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and many more.

Each episode will showcase some of the catchiest music ever made and innovative solos that stand the test of time.

Night owls, rejoice! KAXE After Dark begins in February, airing Saturdays at 9 p.m.

On the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, volunteer hosts will explore genres and styles like metal and punk and others outside KAXE's usual format. These nights will provide a space for fresh musical perspectives from passionate and knowledgeable hosts.

Know someone who'd be a great host? Reach out to us!

The constants you can count on at KAXE — Stay Human, Backporch Harmony, Green Cheese, World Cafe, American Routes, Sheroes, Jazz on America Avenue — and morning and afternoon news and conversations aren't going anywhere.

While the world around us shifts, KAXE wants to remain a steady part of your day and our community. Our commitment to real people making real radio will continue to guide everything we do.

Thank you for your continued support!