KGNU Music

In this KGNU interview, folk music icon Cris Williamson reflects on the 50th anniversary of The Changer and the Changed and her upcoming show at Swallow Hill. She discusses the album’s lasting impact, the founding of Olivia Records, and the challenges and triumphs of touring in the early days. With warmth and insight, Williamson speaks to the enduring power of music as a force for personal and social change. (Interview: 5/9/25)

Singer-songwriter Micki Balder joined Sanford Baran live in the KGNU studio to share heartfelt songs from her latest album and reflect on the emotional depth in her songwriting. Known for crafting “sad songs for happy people and occasionally happy songs for sad people,” Balder discussed how she finds joy in embracing both light and dark emotions through music. She performed three originals—“Take It or Leave It,” “Looking for You,” and “The Beautiful Place”—each showcasing her lyrical sensitivity and rich vocal style, offering listeners a glimpse into her personal and poetic musical world.

Ratas en Zelo, an all-female accordion punk band from New York, joined DJ Blackcat on Sleepless Nights to discuss their 11-year journey in the punk scene. Known for their energetic performances and unconventional sound—punk with accordion and no guitar—the band reflected on recent shows in California, including a massive arena gig with comedian Felipe Esparza. They also shared excitement about opening for punk legends Subhumans on a Manhattan cruise and teased a possible collaboration with a major Argentine band. With a new Texas tour, Ratas en Zelo continues to bring humor, defiance, and danceable chaos to stages across the country. (Interview: 5/1/25)

La Manu and El Sebas, hosts of the radio show ¡Corriente!, sat down with the incomparable Natalia Lafourcade. In this interview, the Mexican singer, songwriter, and producer opened the doors to her creative universe to talk about CANCIONERA, her latest album released on April 24, and about the CANCIONERA Tour, which has already brought her to stages in the United States. Natalia spoke about the album’s recording process—done “the old-fashioned way”: in a single take and on analog tape—and the theatrical approach she’s crafted for the CANCIONERA Tour, a show where music, theater, and visual storytelling come together to bring her many creative worlds to life. (Interview: 05/27/25)

Tony Newton, legendary bassist and producer, shares his journey from playing with John Lee Hooker to becoming a key figure in Motown at just 17. He reflects on touring with Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, recording hits like "Baby Love," and the dynamic artistry behind Motown's sound. Newton emphasizes the skill of session musicians in adapting their playing to enhance each artist’s unique style, offering a fascinating glimpse into the magic behind some of music’s most timeless records. (Interview: 5/30/25)

Singer-songwriter Alexa Wildish joined KGNU live at the Boulder Farmers Market for a heartfelt interview and performance, sharing stories from her eclectic musical journey. From her early days performing on cruise ships to earning a spot in the Top 20 on The Voice Season 24—where all four judges turned their chairs—Alexa has carved a unique path marked by resilience, artistry, and deep emotional connection. She spoke about her love for Colorado, particularly the musical haven of Lyons, and how nature deeply influences her songwriting. Performing original songs like Invocation and her rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s Songbird, Alexa brought warmth, gratitude, and soul to the KGNU tent. (Local Gold: 5/21/25)

Singer-songwriter Sarah Banker joined Indra Raj live on KGNU at the Boulder Farmers Market to share music from her new EP Into the Heart and discuss her creative journey. Sarah highlighted self-discovery, love, and resilience. She spoke about her background in theater and cultural anthropology, and how both have shaped her approach to songwriting and performance. A longtime resident of Nederland, Colorado, Sarah described the mountain town as a vibrant incubator for artists. Her thoughtful reflections and heartfelt music offered listeners a glimpse into her artistic world and her belief in the power of creativity to transform lives. (Studio Session: 5/21/25)

Singer-songwriter Patrick Dethlefs joined KGNU for a special live broadcast from the Boulder Farmers Market, sharing his signature blend of heartfelt folk music with a crowd of marketgoers and listeners. Performing originals like “Somewhere in Between,” “Why Not Try?” and “Daydream,” he gave audiences a taste of his upcoming album, recorded live during a snowed-in mountain retreat with longtime collaborators. In conversation with host Indra Raj, Dethlefs reflected on his 15+ years in the Front Range music scene, the evolving community of artists. His new record is set to debut this September. (Local Gold: 5/21/25)

Mollie O’Brien and Rich Moore joined KGNU for a live broadcast from the Boulder Farmer’s Market during Radio Week to share music and stories from their decades-long career on the Front Range. They performed songs from their new album Lost in the Crowd, a collection of covers inspired by audience requests during the pandemic. The duo reflected on their early ties to KGNU, including benefit shows in the 1980s, and expressed gratitude for the station’s continued support. Listeners can find their new album exclusively at mollieobrien.com and on Bandcamp. (Local Gold: 5/21/25)

In this KGNU Studio Session, singer-songwriter Macy Todd joins host Indra Raj for a warm and insightful conversation about her musical journey, creative process, and forthcoming debut album Pocket Change. Originally from Lawrenceville, Georgia, and now based in Austin, Macy shares stories of her early musical influences, growing up in a gospel-loving household, and how artists like Brandi Carlile shaped her songwriting. She performs several original tracks live in the studio, including “Denim,” “Casualties and Coca-Cola,” “Pocket Change,” and “Red, White, and Me,” offering listeners a preview of the heartfelt and introspective work that defines her upcoming release. Macy also discusses the visual storytelling element of the album, her collaborations, and how platforms like TikTok have helped her connect with a growing fanbase.