Outlaw Radio adds Blues & Jazz shows

Outlaw Radio KZSO 106.5 FM now has the talents of Jim & Katie Williams, music lovers and new radio show hosts.

The couple will host their own radio shows on KZSO starting in June. Jim is the acknowledged blues aficionado in the marriage, Katie the jazz lover.

"The first blues album I ever bought was a Muddy Waters album. Pretty much hooked after that. I've been to many concerts too, artists like Buddy Guy, BB King, John Lee Hooker, Paul DeLay, Robert Cray, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds," said Jim.

Katie has always been a jazz fan and is excited about the opportunity of highlighting both local and national talent.

"We have so much local talent, I'm looking forward to having local artists in the studio, playing their music, and also doing live remotes," she said.

The Williamses became interested in volunteering at KZSO after reading an article about the evolution of the station in The Nugget.

"When the article in The Nugget came out a couple of weeks ago it was like an artistic light bulb went off in my head. I got very excited and inquired about doing a blues show. The station agreed and my goal with the show is to both educate and entertain," said Jim.

Although Jim took broadcasting classes about 25 years ago, he admits that his training wasn't up to par with the evolution of studio equipment.

"It's really so much easier now, and with a little training by KZSO staff anyone with a passion for hosting a program can do it," he said.

KZSO offers hands-on training for those interested in becoming part of the station, whether hosting a radio program or volunteering in other aspects of the non-profit station's operation.

"I have absolutely zero radio experience; all I have is a passion for the artists and their music," said Katie. "The KZSO staff, and my husband Jim, have been very encouraging and supportive. I'm very excited to begin airing my program in June."

Juke Joint Jimmy's Blues Scene will be broadcast live on Mondays from 7 to 8 p.m. starting June 9. Juke Joint Jimmy will also host a live Blues Artist Profile on Sundays from 7 to 8 p.m. starting June 8.

Katie Williams' Sunday Jazz Brunch will air live on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. starting June 8.

For more information about Sisters' low-power community radio station, Outlaw Radio KZSO 106.5 FM, contact Bill Mintiens at 504-6696 or [email protected]ndbroadband.com.