On Saturday night Kathleen Harris, KCSM Development Director, headed to the Golden Gate Theatre to soak in the sounds of live jazz from one of KCSMs favorites, Kamasi Washington, who delivered a powerful performance that had the crowd on its feet. After the show, Kathleen captured a special moment: Karen, a devoted KCSM fan, reaching out to thank Kamasi for the music that has meant so much to her. This simple handshake between artist and listener captures what KCSM is all about—real connections, shared love of jazz, and a community that stretches from the airwaves to the concert hall. A moment of pure jazz joy that reflects KCSMs unequaled connection to the Bay Area jazz scene.

Kathleen Lawton, Host of Crazy 'Bout The Blues and Jazz Oasis (Friday) was the MC for the San Francisco International Boogie Woogie Festival on November 9, 2025. Kathleen said it was a wonderful show — very appreciative audience. Performers were from Germany, Switzerland, Spain, France and Hungary. It was a lot of fun with great and enthusiastic crowd, and the music was delicious. The weather was lovely and balmy in the city. Kathleen also noted that she was promoted to Mistress - LOL!

If you joined us at the Alameda Theatre for the screening of the KCSM Documentary, thank you for being part of such a special day. Nearly 300 jazz lovers, listeners, and friends came together to celebrate the music, the memories, and the people who make KCSM what it is. The afternoon featured the documentary premiere, a Q&A with beloved station hosts, and a wonderful reception and tour at the California Historical Radio Society Museum. Click the story subject line to relive the moments and see some photos from this unforgettable gathering that reflects KCSM’s deep roots and ongoing connection to our jazz community.

New York City based composer and pianist Daniel Meron brought his trio to Clevland to perform pieces from his 2024 Pinch Records based release Pendulum. Over the past decade Meron has established himself as a prominent figure in the modern jazz scene releasing four critically acclaimed albums, along with featured performances at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Costa Rica Jazz Festival, and tours of the US, Canada, Europe and Israel. From a May 5th, 2024 performance that features Pablo Menares on Bass, Jimmy Macbride on Drums and Daniel Meron on piano, it’s the Daniel Meron Trio – Live at the Bop Stop.

Jimmy Witherspoon: 1950-56, Part 2. Jimmy Witherspoon is one of most influential blues shouters to emerge after WWII and yet he remains just a footnote in the evolution of Rhythm & Blues and Rock n' Roll. In part 1 of our 2-part feature on Spoon, we focused on his early recordings with Jay McShann's band from 1945-50. During that time, Spoon recorded his signature tune, "Ain't Nobody's Business," which topped the R&B charts during the summer of 1949. This week in part 2, we pick it up in 1950, while he's still recording for LA's Modern Records. Spoon would score his last hit, "The Wind Is Blowin'" for that label in 1952. Then he jumps over to Federal Records, where A&R man Ralph Bass tries a few new things, like pairing Spoon with the R&B vocal group, The Lamplighters. Having no charting hits on Federal, Spoon signs with Checker Records in Chicago, where only 3 singles are issued. It becomes clear that blues shouters like Witherspoon are out of fashion with the new Rock n' Roll record buyers, so he takes a stab at a Rock n' Roll song, "My Girl Ivy" for Atco in '56, before reinventing himself as a jazz singer. All of these records must be heard in order to appreciate the depth of styles and influence on Rock n' Roll Music that Spoon had.

Blue Note Holiday Special. A holiday hour from Blue Note Records, curated by Don Was, a musician and producer known for his wide-ranging ear and love of great songs. This program drifts through snowy soundscapes with classics and deep cuts from Norah Jones, Horace Silver, Dianne Reeves, and more.

Coming Soon

New York City based composer and pianist Daniel Meron brought his trio to Clevland to perform pieces from his 2024 Pinch Records based release Pendulum. Over the past decade Meron has established himself as a prominent figure in the modern jazz scene releasing four critically acclaimed albums, along with featured performances at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Costa Rica Jazz Festival, and tours of the US, Canada, Europe and Israel. From a May 5th, 2024 performance that features Pablo Menares on Bass, Jimmy Macbride on Drums and Daniel Meron on piano, it’s the Daniel Meron Trio – Live at the Bop Stop.

This episode includes selections from Alice McClarity, The Swan Silvertones (pictured), Gene Martin & the Summer Youth Ensemble, Ohio Gospel Gems, a long set of sides from the record labels of Ted Jarrett, among others.

Rachel Campos de Ivanov is the Operations and Community Engagement Manager for Radium Presents, the organization responsible for bringing artistic events to the repurposed Radium Runway. Host Scott Piehler talks with Rachel about the history of Radium, the many events presented on the Runway, and the proposed Radium Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the-art performance and education center.

Terry Healey, author of At Face Value and The Resilience Mindset, discussed his experience with a recurrence of cancer, which led to significant surgery and changes in his appearance. He described how he coped with the physical and emotional challenges through faith, a positive mindset, and gratitude. Terry also shared his resilience framework, called ReBAR, which he developed to help others facing adversity. He emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with positive people, practicing mindful positivity, and using visualization techniques.