Listening Lyrics Archives

Music programs are only online for two weeks after they are broadcast.

Leyna K. and Quy Tran in the studio on Listening Lyrics, Feb. 14, 2025

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.

Jacob Johnson interprets animal behavior on Listening Lyrics, Jan. 24, 2025

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.

Gordie Nodge, a Canadian banjo player/farmer, on Listening Lyrics, Jan. 17, 2025

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!

Alex Roth is 'Leaving Las Davis,' on Listening Lyrics, Jan. 10, 2025

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.

Rumi Shimada with Aidan Marr, live on Listening Lyrics, Dec. 20, 2024

Rumi Shimada, a musician, composer, and lyricist from Northern California, continues to demonstrate his dedication to the craft with his latest EP release, Groping Around for the Light Switch.

In the studio today, Rumi is accompanied by percussionist Aidan Marr on the cajon. Their live performances, enriched by several additional tunes, brought depth and vibrancy to an hour of immersive music, showcasing two talented artists in their element.

Noah Cole shares his passion as a guitarist on Listening Lyrics, Dec. 13, 2024

When a young guitarist with a passion for musical excellence walks into the room, you can feel the energy shift. His idols are not your typical mainstream names, but rather the likes of the innovative Blake Mills, the soulful Adrianne Lenker, and the prodigious Julian Lage. As he settles in for our interview, it's clear this will be no ordinary conversation. Noah Cole (pictured), hailing from the vibrant music scene of Sacramento, is a force to be reckoned with. Noah showcases his talents as a guitarist in various bands, including the renowned Rowan McQuire and the dynamic Nat Leftkoff, and pays it forward as a guitar instructor.

His dedication to his craft is palpable. We are treated to a live performance, where he flawlessly demonstrates his fingerpicking techniques, and for the first time we are graced with his vocal abilities as a solo artist. This hour of pure musical magic will leave you wanting more. Sit back, relax, and let the words and music of Noah Cole whisk you away on a journey of sound and emotion. This is not just an interview, it's an experience. Let's dive in and discover the depth of talent and passion within this rising star.

See playlist below for the  recorded music played in this episode

Al Vasquez and Bill Edwards on Listening Lyrics, Dec. 6, 2024

Prepare to be blown away by two of the most talented and inspiring musicians to grace our studio. Al Vasquez, a master percussionist and vocalist, joined forces with the legendary Bill Edwards on guitar.

Despite some minor technical difficulties at the start, their raw talent and passion shone through in every note. As I sat there, surrounded by the electric energy of their live performance, I felt like I was transported into a recording studio. Their musical chemistry was undeniable, and I was honored to witness it firsthand. But enough from me, let their music speak for itself as you listen to the show.

Al will be gracing our local venues soon, so mark your calendars. On December 28, catch his quartet at Davis Wine Bar. And on January 25, don't miss his performance at the Winters Opera House alongside the incredible Dave Nachmanoff. Don't miss this opportunity to experience pure musical talent at its finest. Trust me, this hour will be a gift to your senses. So be swept away by the captivating performances you will witness.

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