KPLU: A Rich History of Jazz and News Broadcasting

There’s something special about finding a radio station that just gets it right. KPLU was that station for countless listeners across the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1966 as Pacific Lutheran University’s campus radio, it grew into something far more significant – one of the most respected public radio stations anywhere in the country. From Tacoma, Washington, KPLU built its reputation on two pillars: jazz and news, delivered with a dedication that created one of the most loyal audiences I’ve ever seen.

The Jazz Legacy of KPLU

KPLU didn’t just play jazz – they lived it. The station devoted serious airtime to programs that went beyond playlists, really digging into the history of the genre, the artists who shaped it, the records that changed everything. As someone who appreciates when people actually care about what they’re doing, I found KPLU’s approach refreshing. Critics agreed. The impact extended well beyond their broadcast range.

The Creation of Jazz24

In 2004, KPLU launched Jazz24 – a round-the-clock jazz stream accessible anywhere with internet. Probably should have led with this, honestly, because it was genuinely groundbreaking for its time. The station wanted jazz lovers worldwide to have access to their carefully curated programming, and Jazz24 delivered exactly that.

• Classic jazz icons like Miles Davis and John Coltrane
• Modern jazz influencers such as Kamasi Washington and Esperanza Spalding
• Special segments and live performances

That’s what makes KPLU endearing to us music lovers – they weren’t content with local success. They built something for everyone who shared their passion.

News Programming at KPLU

The news operation at KPLU earned serious respect. Multiple awards for journalism excellence, comprehensive coverage spanning local to international stories, and a partnership with NPR that brought world-class reporting to Pacific Northwest listeners. The news team crafted programming that actually informed people about issues affecting their communities and the wider world.

Signature News Programs

• Morning Edition: The daily blend of news, analysis, and features
• All Things Considered: Afternoon deep-dives into current events
• Sound Effect: Local stories unique to the Pacific Northwest

The Transition to KNKX

Here’s where the story takes a dramatic turn. When Pacific Lutheran University announced plans to sell KPLU to the University of Washington in 2015, the community response was immediate and passionate. People didn’t want to lose what made KPLU special. What followed was remarkable – a grassroots campaign that successfully raised the funds to purchase the station and guarantee its independence.

In August 2016, KPLU became KNKX (Connects). New name, same soul. The station continued delivering the jazz and news programming that had built its reputation, staying true to its mission of connecting with and educating its audience.

Community Support and Engagement

Listener donations sustained KPLU throughout its history – clear evidence of how much the audience valued what they received. Live performances, educational workshops, fundraising drives – all of it fostered genuine community among jazz enthusiasts and news listeners alike. I’ve rarely seen that kind of connection between a station and its audience.

Station leadership consistently sought feedback and acted on it. That dialogue helped KPLU evolve while staying anchored to its core values.

Technological Advancements and Digital Presence

KPLU embraced technology early and invested in quality. The website became a comprehensive resource – news articles, jazz playlists, archived programs, live streams from anywhere in the world. Social media provided additional ways for the community to connect and engage.

Podcast and Streaming Services

When podcasting emerged, KPLU developed series exploring music, culture, and news in depth. On-demand content that complemented traditional broadcasts and reached new audiences.

• Interviews with jazz legends and rising stars
• Behind-the-scenes looks at news stories and investigations
• Special series on local history and culture

Educational Impact and Partnerships

Education was central to KPLU’s identity. The university connection gave aspiring journalists and broadcasters invaluable hands-on experience working alongside professionals. But education extended beyond formal training – jazz programs taught listeners about the music, news coverage created a more informed public, and partnerships with cultural organizations enriched everything the station offered.

Collaborations with Other Institutions

KPLU’s commitment to education drove partnerships with museums, cultural organizations, and media outlets throughout the region. These collaborations expanded the station’s reach and created programming that genuinely reflected Pacific Northwest culture.

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