Listening Lyrics

Sometimes, the best moments happen on a whim. While riding my bike, I heard music drifting through the air and followed the sound. That’s when I found Leyna on piano and Quy on guitar—two students completely lost in their moment of zen. Though music isn’t their major, it’s their passion, and their talent was undeniable. I knew I had to invite them to share their gift. After all, this is community radio—an hour of heartfelt conversation and music, from them to you. Enjoy.

The Black Legacy Project is a musical celebration of Black history to advance racial solidarity, equity, and belonging.

It is a national project produced by Music in Common -- a nonprofit that strengthens, empowers, and connects communities through the universal language -- in partnership with community stakeholders at the local level.

Amidst musical performances, rigorous studies, and global travels, Jacob Johnson crafted a remarkable book. Entitled Are You There God? It's Me, Darwin, this insightful work translates the intricate world of animal behavior into accessible, non-technical prose. Johnson's engaging narrative empowers readers of all backgrounds to grasp this fascinating subject. The book's Amazon release is eagerly anticipated on Feb. 12, 2025.

A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., and a fervent devotee of his home state, Johnson is pursuing a doctorate in animal behavior at the University of California, Davis.

His profound affection for nature and scientific inquiry blossomed amidst the verdant Michigan forests and captivating exhibits of his childhood museums. Following his undergraduate pursuits at the University of Chicago in 2015, where he immersed himself in the vibrant worlds of science communication, ecology, and astrophysics, Johnson's multifaceted talents truly flourished. His relentless academic endeavors were not confined to the classroom; he concurrently founded a student musical ensemble, penned theatrical works, produced a short-form television program, and even released a musical album—a testament to his ingenious ability to harmonize artistic expression with scientific curiosity. His undergraduate thesis, a compelling analysis of 21st-century science communication, explored strategies for rendering complex scientific concepts engaging and accessible, particularly within challenging socio-cultural contexts.

Johnson is completing his doctoral studies, driven by an ambitious vision: to seamlessly integrate his three dominant passions—scientific investigation, musical creativity, and persuasive communication—into a singular, impactful career.

Meet Gordie Nodge, a farmer from Saskatchewan who spends part of the winter in Davis. He is an exceptional banjo player with captivating original songs. You can sometimes catch him performing his 5-string banjo at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. He’s also an enthusiastic regular at the Music Circle, held every Friday at noon at the Wyatt Pavilion at UC Davis. In this broadcast, Gordie even set some lyrics I wrote to music. Fun fact: Gordie busked at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday and generously donated all his earnings to KDRT. Thank you, Gordie!

We start the new year with Alex Roth saying goodbye to his adopted city. The moment is at times emotional and uplifting. You also can say goodbye as he will perform the "Leaving Las Davis" show at Sudwerk on Thursday Jan. 16, 2025, at 9 p.m.

Alex Roth is a cherished icon in Davis, where genuine community impactors are few and far between. He stands among the exceptional. His musical prowess and generous spirit are legendary; his performances have graced countless local benefits, including the momentous celebration for the start of KDRT in 2004.

Remember his unique enterprise? Alex, powered solely by his own legs, delivered his meticulously hand-roasted coffee throughout Davis, his bicycle becoming a symbol of connection, a ritual weaving the town's fabric together with the rich aroma of his exceptional brew.

To know Alex was to befriend him, to be touched by his kindness, to be enriched. Now, as he embarks on his overseas adventure, Davis will miss his unique presence. Alex, you have indelibly shaped Davis's character; you've made it a better place. From all of us at KDRT: Farewell, and thank you for the enduring legacy you leave behind.

A Poem for Alex read on the air.

In a town where melodies softly play,

On a humble bike with a purpose clear,

Through rain or shine, with steadfast heart,

Now as he moves to distant lands,

For though he journeys to another place,