KNKX Public Radio
@knkx.org
Your connection to jazz, blues, and NPR news! Seattle & Tacoma’s NPR station. Listen online at https://www.KNKX.org or on your radio at 88.5FM!
Lisa Qian, a former data scientist with LinkedIn and Airbnb, has been hired as Seattle’s first-ever artificial intelligence officer. Outgoing Mayor Bruce Harrell announced the creation of the new AI officer position as part of the rollout of Seattle’s ambitious “responsible AI plan.” Learn more:
Seattle hires its first-ever artificial intelligence officer
Lisa Qian, a former data scientist with LinkedIn and Airbnb, will be tasked with developing citywide AI strategy, educating employees and establishing ethical AI standards.
www.knkx.org
December 24, 2025 at 11:11 PM
Lisa Qian, a former data scientist with LinkedIn and Airbnb, has been hired as Seattle’s first-ever artificial intelligence officer. Outgoing Mayor Bruce Harrell announced the creation of the new AI officer position as part of the rollout of Seattle’s ambitious “responsible AI plan.” Learn more:
Tired of hearing the same holiday jazz playlist every December? NPR's Jazz Night in America mixed things up this year by tapping Don Was, president of Blue Note Records and Grammy-winning producer, to hand-pick an hour of Christmas jazz.
Have a Blue (Note) Christmas with Don Was
Don Was digs into the Blue Note Records vault for a different kind of Christmas playlist, bringing together rare cuts, classics and deep grooves from across the label's history.
www.knkx.org
December 24, 2025 at 7:59 PM
Tired of hearing the same holiday jazz playlist every December? NPR's Jazz Night in America mixed things up this year by tapping Don Was, president of Blue Note Records and Grammy-winning producer, to hand-pick an hour of Christmas jazz.
Happy Holidays from KNKX! Listen for holiday music in our regular programming, as well as special music features, including the annual Origin Records Holiday Special. Here's a detailed year-end programming schedule:
Celebrate the season with KNKX's holiday program schedule
Music is one of the most evocative parts of the holiday season. KNKX's holiday programming includes seasonal favorites and year-end reflections.
www.knkx.org
December 24, 2025 at 5:29 PM
Happy Holidays from KNKX! Listen for holiday music in our regular programming, as well as special music features, including the annual Origin Records Holiday Special. Here's a detailed year-end programming schedule:
New Orleans may not be the first thing you think of when you think of Christmas music, but many musicians in the Big Easy have deep roots in the church. Here's what a few of the city's favorite jazz, blues, and funk musicians had to say about the songs they love to listen to during the holidays.
New Orleans musicians share their favorite Christmas songs, from bounce to blues
Rosemary Westwood from member station WWNO asked a few of New Orlean's favorite musicians about the songs they like to listen to around Christmas.
www.knkx.org
December 24, 2025 at 12:55 AM
New Orleans may not be the first thing you think of when you think of Christmas music, but many musicians in the Big Easy have deep roots in the church. Here's what a few of the city's favorite jazz, blues, and funk musicians had to say about the songs they love to listen to during the holidays.
European chafer grubs are a treat for backyard critters. And as the grubs have spread, there have been more reports of animals such as crows and raccoons tearing up lawns to feast on them.
Crows tearing up lawns may be hunting invasive grubs
Over the past decade, invasive European chafer beetles have taken hold in Western Washington. Crows, racoons and other animals are tearing up lawns in search of the grubs.
www.knkx.org
December 23, 2025 at 10:46 PM
European chafer grubs are a treat for backyard critters. And as the grubs have spread, there have been more reports of animals such as crows and raccoons tearing up lawns to feast on them.
A confident quintet of teenage jazz musicians from Edmonds-Woodway High School, joined by mentor and trombonist Conner Eisengmenger, visited the KNKX studios for a session of jazz standards, and an original song by one of their own.
Edmonds-Woodway High School musicians dazzle with trombonist mentor
In this KNKX studio session, trombonist and educator Conner Eisenmenger joins an ensemble from Edmonds-Woodway High School, directed by Jake Bergevin.
www.knkx.org
December 23, 2025 at 5:18 PM
A confident quintet of teenage jazz musicians from Edmonds-Woodway High School, joined by mentor and trombonist Conner Eisengmenger, visited the KNKX studios for a session of jazz standards, and an original song by one of their own.
So far, the impact of this month’s flood on farms in the region has been mixed, with some faring better than in 2021. But other farmers have been unlucky.
From our partners at @cascadiadaily.com
From our partners at @cascadiadaily.com
Some farms in Whatcom, Skagit see ‘immense’ damage after floods
The impact of flooding has been mixed, with some farms faring better than in 2021.
www.knkx.org
December 23, 2025 at 12:19 AM
So far, the impact of this month’s flood on farms in the region has been mixed, with some faring better than in 2021. But other farmers have been unlucky.
From our partners at @cascadiadaily.com
From our partners at @cascadiadaily.com
Sixty years ago this month, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" premiered, and it would go one to become a beloved holiday classic. In 1995, Peanuts creator Charles Schulz spoke with NPR's Bob Edwards, reflecting on the specific vision he had for this animated special.
Jazz, joy and one ragged Christmas tree: 60 years of 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" premiered on television. In 1995, Peanuts creator Charles Schulz spoke with NPR's Bob Edwards on Morning Edition.
www.knkx.org
December 22, 2025 at 11:01 PM
Sixty years ago this month, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" premiered, and it would go one to become a beloved holiday classic. In 1995, Peanuts creator Charles Schulz spoke with NPR's Bob Edwards, reflecting on the specific vision he had for this animated special.
A growing reforestation industry has emerged in the wake of wildfires in the Pacific Northwest. One company — Silvaseed, based in Roy, Washington — collects, cleans, catalogues and preserves seeds. It also raises millions of seedlings every year.
150-year-old seed company helps reforest in the face of climate change
Pierce County’s Silvaseed, in Roy, Washington, collects, cleans, sorts and stores seed — and grows seedlings — to help restore forests hard-hit by increasingly intense wildfires.
www.knkx.org
December 21, 2025 at 3:33 PM
A growing reforestation industry has emerged in the wake of wildfires in the Pacific Northwest. One company — Silvaseed, based in Roy, Washington — collects, cleans, catalogues and preserves seeds. It also raises millions of seedlings every year.
On Nov. 7, the Recording Academy announced their 2026 Grammy nominations, including finalists for each of the six jazz categories. From fresh faces to storied greats, the jazz musicians who earned Grammy nods for 2026 reflect a delicate balance of innovation and tradition.
Samara Joy, Sullivan Fortner and Chick Corea among 2026 Grammy nominees
On Nov. 7, the Recording Academy announced their 2026 Grammy nominations, including finalists for each of the six jazz categories. The winners will be announced in February.
www.knkx.org
December 20, 2025 at 12:13 AM
On Nov. 7, the Recording Academy announced their 2026 Grammy nominations, including finalists for each of the six jazz categories. From fresh faces to storied greats, the jazz musicians who earned Grammy nods for 2026 reflect a delicate balance of innovation and tradition.
❄️ A winter storm warning for the Cascades is in effect until Saturday afternoon. 🏔️🌨️
❄️ Heavy snow is expected, with the National Weather Service ( @nws.noaa.gov ) forecasting 1 to 2 feet at Snoqualmie and Stevens, with locations like Paradise and Mount Baker receiving closer to 2 to 3 feet of snow.
❄️ Heavy snow is expected, with the National Weather Service ( @nws.noaa.gov ) forecasting 1 to 2 feet at Snoqualmie and Stevens, with locations like Paradise and Mount Baker receiving closer to 2 to 3 feet of snow.
December 19, 2025 at 10:49 PM
❄️ A winter storm warning for the Cascades is in effect until Saturday afternoon. 🏔️🌨️
❄️ Heavy snow is expected, with the National Weather Service ( @nws.noaa.gov ) forecasting 1 to 2 feet at Snoqualmie and Stevens, with locations like Paradise and Mount Baker receiving closer to 2 to 3 feet of snow.
❄️ Heavy snow is expected, with the National Weather Service ( @nws.noaa.gov ) forecasting 1 to 2 feet at Snoqualmie and Stevens, with locations like Paradise and Mount Baker receiving closer to 2 to 3 feet of snow.
Holiday music is on the air at KNKX! From holiday jazz favorites throughout the day, to specials like NPR’s Jazz Piano Christmas, let KNKX be the soundtrack to your season. Tune in on 88.5 FM or stream anytime. Wishing you joy, peace, and a happy new year.
Celebrate the season with KNKX's holiday program schedule
Music is one of the most evocative parts of the holiday season. KNKX's holiday programming includes seasonal favorites and year-end reflections.
www.knkx.org
December 19, 2025 at 8:46 PM
Holiday music is on the air at KNKX! From holiday jazz favorites throughout the day, to specials like NPR’s Jazz Piano Christmas, let KNKX be the soundtrack to your season. Tune in on 88.5 FM or stream anytime. Wishing you joy, peace, and a happy new year.
Driving down I-5, a sign illuminated with red lights comes into view: Tacoma Self Storage. But every year on Black Friday, it becomes Tacoma Elf Storage. The tradition of turning the sign from "Self Storage" to "Elf Storage" began one fateful day in 2007.
Are Santa's elves stored along I-5 in Tacoma?
Now a harbinger of the South Sound's holiday season, the tradition of transforming from "Self Storage" to "Elf Storage" began one fateful day in 2007.
www.knkx.org
December 19, 2025 at 5:44 PM
Driving down I-5, a sign illuminated with red lights comes into view: Tacoma Self Storage. But every year on Black Friday, it becomes Tacoma Elf Storage. The tradition of turning the sign from "Self Storage" to "Elf Storage" began one fateful day in 2007.
In 1973, the Headhunters began developing their trademark jazz fusion sound with colorful, creative playing, including the innovative use of the Central African bottle-playing technique called "hindewhu."
For 50 years, The Headhunters have crafted a signature jazz 'gumbo'
Formed in 1973, The Headhunters have been jazz fusion pioneers for more than fifty years, blending improvisation with funk, rock, and world music sounds.
www.knkx.org
December 18, 2025 at 11:14 PM
In 1973, the Headhunters began developing their trademark jazz fusion sound with colorful, creative playing, including the innovative use of the Central African bottle-playing technique called "hindewhu."
🌊 🌧️The National Weather Service has extended the flood watch for our region until Friday afternoon.
@nws.noaa.gov says most rivers have crested or will crest by tomorrow, but a few rivers could still have renewed flooding. (1/3 🧵)
@nws.noaa.gov says most rivers have crested or will crest by tomorrow, but a few rivers could still have renewed flooding. (1/3 🧵)
December 18, 2025 at 9:33 PM
🌊 🌧️The National Weather Service has extended the flood watch for our region until Friday afternoon.
@nws.noaa.gov says most rivers have crested or will crest by tomorrow, but a few rivers could still have renewed flooding. (1/3 🧵)
@nws.noaa.gov says most rivers have crested or will crest by tomorrow, but a few rivers could still have renewed flooding. (1/3 🧵)
A survey for the American Astronomical Society found dozens of astronomy degree programs across the nation are shrinking or cancelling their graduate admissions this year. including the University of Washington.
Astronomy programs limit graduate spots amid federal funding uncertainty
Among financial pressures facing universities, federal funding upheaval means there could be fewer spots available at graduate programs this cycle.
www.knkx.org
December 18, 2025 at 8:24 PM
A survey for the American Astronomical Society found dozens of astronomy degree programs across the nation are shrinking or cancelling their graduate admissions this year. including the University of Washington.
Ten local artists will start the new year $10,000 richer, thanks to local music nonprofit Sonic Guild Seattle. The organization distributed $100,000 directly to local musicians, whose styles span indie rock to hip-hop.
Sonic Guild provides $100,000 in grants to Seattle musicians
Ten local artists will start the new year $10,000 richer, thanks to local music nonprofit Sonic Guild Seattle.
www.knkx.org
December 17, 2025 at 10:38 PM
Ten local artists will start the new year $10,000 richer, thanks to local music nonprofit Sonic Guild Seattle. The organization distributed $100,000 directly to local musicians, whose styles span indie rock to hip-hop.
Tenant advocates rallied against proposed changes to the Landlord Fairness Code, but affordable housing providers have said the changes are needed to help them maintain their operations and build more housing in the future.
Tacoma City Council limits eviction protections for tenants
The Tacoma City Council voted last week to curtail cold-weather and school-year evictions established in the Landlord Fairness Code for certain low-income housing providers.
www.knkx.org
December 17, 2025 at 8:49 PM
Tenant advocates rallied against proposed changes to the Landlord Fairness Code, but affordable housing providers have said the changes are needed to help them maintain their operations and build more housing in the future.
Amid the flooding this week, King County Pet Adoption Center in Kent has some tips (1/4 🧵):
🐾 If people find a stray animal, they can use www.kingcounty.gov/FoundAPet for resources on how to re-unite pets with their owners.
🐾 If people find a stray animal, they can use www.kingcounty.gov/FoundAPet for resources on how to re-unite pets with their owners.
December 17, 2025 at 7:12 PM
Amid the flooding this week, King County Pet Adoption Center in Kent has some tips (1/4 🧵):
🐾 If people find a stray animal, they can use www.kingcounty.gov/FoundAPet for resources on how to re-unite pets with their owners.
🐾 If people find a stray animal, they can use www.kingcounty.gov/FoundAPet for resources on how to re-unite pets with their owners.
Gov. Bob Ferguson announced $3.5 million in state assistance, which is meant to help families affected by the floods pay for things such as groceries and hotel stays.
WA flooding among the 'most devastating' natural disasters in state history
Gov. Bob Ferguson told Washingtonians to brace for a lengthy recovery, and announced $3.5 million in state assistance for short-term needs such as groceries and hotel stays.
www.knkx.org
December 17, 2025 at 12:51 AM
Gov. Bob Ferguson announced $3.5 million in state assistance, which is meant to help families affected by the floods pay for things such as groceries and hotel stays.
When jazz clarinetist Anat Cohen came to the KNKX studios in 2017, she effervesced with a love of Brazilian choro. Choro is South American roots music with melodic beauty, rhythmic energy and a passionate, emotional core. Learn more in this episode of Studio Session Shorts:
Clarinetist Anat Cohen's love affair with Brazilian choro
Jazz clarinetist Anat Cohen highlights her passion for choro, an emotive musical form that combines the musical traditions of indigenous Africans and Western Europeans living in Brazil.
www.knkx.org
December 16, 2025 at 11:05 PM
When jazz clarinetist Anat Cohen came to the KNKX studios in 2017, she effervesced with a love of Brazilian choro. Choro is South American roots music with melodic beauty, rhythmic energy and a passionate, emotional core. Learn more in this episode of Studio Session Shorts:
The @seahawksofficial.com remain tied for first place in the NFC West with a record of 11-3. They beat the Indianapolis Colts 18-16. 🌊🦅
🏈 A field goal by kicker Jason Myers won the game
🏈 The Seahawks are tied for first with the LA Rams. The teams meet Thursday in Seattle in an NFC West showdown.
🏈 A field goal by kicker Jason Myers won the game
🏈 The Seahawks are tied for first with the LA Rams. The teams meet Thursday in Seattle in an NFC West showdown.
December 16, 2025 at 10:30 PM
The @seahawksofficial.com remain tied for first place in the NFC West with a record of 11-3. They beat the Indianapolis Colts 18-16. 🌊🦅
🏈 A field goal by kicker Jason Myers won the game
🏈 The Seahawks are tied for first with the LA Rams. The teams meet Thursday in Seattle in an NFC West showdown.
🏈 A field goal by kicker Jason Myers won the game
🏈 The Seahawks are tied for first with the LA Rams. The teams meet Thursday in Seattle in an NFC West showdown.
🎺 Join us for a special benefit release party for the "Roy Hargrove Live at KNKX" EP at The Triple Door on January 7, hosted by Abe Beeson! This EP features exclusive video recordings from Hargrove's studio sessions at KNKX. D’Vonne Lewis Trio to perform. Tickets:
Tickets | KNKX Release Event for
Check This Out: Get tickets and show information for KNKX Release Event for
tickets.thetripledoor.net
December 16, 2025 at 6:29 PM
🎺 Join us for a special benefit release party for the "Roy Hargrove Live at KNKX" EP at The Triple Door on January 7, hosted by Abe Beeson! This EP features exclusive video recordings from Hargrove's studio sessions at KNKX. D’Vonne Lewis Trio to perform. Tickets:
Each year, KNKX's 'All Blues' Host John Kessler creates a round-up of his favorite blues releases. This year, his list includes both straight ahead and progressive blues songs, in honor of KNKX's new show, 'Nu Blues.' Here's John's list:
Best of the blues: John Kessler's favorite releases of 2025
As is tradition, KNKX's 'All Blues' host John Kessler shares his favorite blues releases from the last year.
www.knkx.org
December 16, 2025 at 5:28 PM
Each year, KNKX's 'All Blues' Host John Kessler creates a round-up of his favorite blues releases. This year, his list includes both straight ahead and progressive blues songs, in honor of KNKX's new show, 'Nu Blues.' Here's John's list:
The evacuation order covered homes and businesses east of the Green River in parts of Kent, Renton and Tukwila. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning that initially covered nearly 47,000 people, but was reduced within a few hours to an area covering 7,000 people. More updates:
Evacuation order in King County after Green River levee fails
The evacuation order from King County covered homes and businesses east of the Green River in parts of Tukwila, Renton and Kent.
www.knkx.org
December 16, 2025 at 12:35 AM
The evacuation order covered homes and businesses east of the Green River in parts of Kent, Renton and Tukwila. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning that initially covered nearly 47,000 people, but was reduced within a few hours to an area covering 7,000 people. More updates: