KGNU Music

Salome Songbird, a Denver-based trio blending strings, harmonies, and heartfelt songwriting, returned to KGNU for a live in-studio session. They performed original songs, including “Moon Song,” “White Wine,” and “Mango Margaritas,” and spoke with Indra Raj about their creative process, balancing heavy themes with humor, and upcoming shows across Colorado. (9/24/25)

Marco Pavé, a Memphis-born hip hop artist and CU artist-in-residence, joined KGNU for a live studio session. Blending sharp lyricism with the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta, Pavé spoke about carrying forward the hope and resilience of his ancestors while performing tracks that showcase his Southern roots and contemporary vision.

Pianist and composer Sean Mason joined Indra Raj on KGNU to talk about his path from Charlotte to becoming a Grammy-nominated jazz artist. He shared how he blends tradition with innovation, the cultural influences behind his music, and his collaboration with vocalist Catherine Russell. Mason will perform in Denver with MAS Presents at the Savoy on Thursday, October 2nd, and on Friday, October 3rd with Catherine Russell, ahead of the release of his new album A Breath of Fresh Air.

Mollie O’Brien and Carla Sciaky joined Meredith Carson to share memories of their longtime friend Jill Sobule. They reflected on her sharp humor, deep songwriting, and collaborative spirit, noting how she balanced lightheartedness with profound observation. O’Brien and Sciaky also performed “Rock Me to Sleep,” co-written by Sobule on the night of Princess Diana’s crash, highlighting the poignancy and craftsmanship that defined her music. (Interview: 9/19/25)

Denver indie-rock band Flutter joined KGNU to share music from their two EPs, Flutter and When You Love Somebody. The group discussed their collaborative songwriting, overcoming setbacks like injuries, and recording with Ryan Wong. They’ve been playing shows around Denver at venues like Hi-Dive and Squire Lounge, with upcoming dates at Skylark Lounge and Mutiny. (Studio Session: 9/18/25)

Deep Rawk Dave welcomed Wave Generators, a new hip-hop collective featuring former New Kingdom member Nosaj and independent artist Height Keech. The group is on tour behind their debut Runaway with a Wild and a Rare One and will perform at Mutiny Information Cafe in Englewood. They discussed their origins, the meaning behind their name, the energy of live shows, and the importance of bringing a group dynamic back into hip-hop. (Interview: 9/19/25)

Sizzla joined KGNU on September 20, now celebrated as “Sizzla Day” in Colorado, ahead of his performance at Cervantes with Code Red Band. He spoke about spreading love, unity, and righteousness through his music, and highlighted the charity aspect of the show, raising funds for a primary school breakfast program. Sizzla reflected on his career, the importance of giving back through his Youth Foundation and Judgment Yard, and encouraged young people to stay in school and upcoming artists to stay true, creative, and community-minded. He expressed gratitude to his fans worldwide and called the music a journey of service and inspiration. (Interview: 9/20/25)

Donate the Partial Incentives Breakfast Program:

https://jsse.jamstockex.com/projects/view/7b51fb06-f2f1-400b-8674-b35d01309cb6

Presented by Jamrock Events.

Keith Roberts of the Young Dubliners spoke with Rodger Hara on Shamrock Gale about the band’s upcoming September 20th benefit concert at the Tabor Opera House in Leadville, supporting the Miners Memorial. Roberts reflected on the Irish immigrant connection to Colorado mining history, shared details on their new album—set for release in 2026 with singles out now—and discussed the importance of charity work and giving back through music. He promised a set rich in Irish songs and tradition, tailored to honor Leadville’s heritage. (Interview: 9/17/25)

The Global Roots Ensemble joined Iris Berkeley on Mundi for a live in-studio session ahead of their concert on Sunday, October 5th at the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder. Supported by a recent arts grant, the group aims to bring together diverse communities through storytelling and music that blends traditions from around the world. They previewed new works, including Benes to Brandenburg, imagining a meeting of Bach and the Indian poet-musician Kabir, and Raja’s Footprints, inspired by John Coltrane’s spiritual connection to India. The ensemble described their upcoming performance as an immersive, improvisational journey with their full quintet, weaving global instruments, narratives, and cross-cultural dialogue into a shared musical experience. (Studio Session: 9/17/25)

Cellist Wilhelmina Smith and composer-vocalist Dawn Avery (Mohawk) joined Sanford Baran to discuss their new album, Sweetgrass. The collaboration began during the pandemic, when Smith sought out indigenous composers and was drawn to Avery’s music, which connects deeply with nature and Mohawk traditions. Their work together, including pieces like Gratitude and Decolonization, blends cello and voice to convey indigenous sounds, spirituality, and storytelling. The title track, Sweetgrass, honors one of the most sacred plants in Mohawk culture, symbolizing strength, tenderness, and reverence for women. Both artists emphasize healing, peace, and cultural connection—values that shaped their music during a time of global crisis. Sweetgrass offers ten tracks weaving indigenous themes with contemporary classical artistry.