RENOWNED MUSICIAN STIX HOOPER TO HOST HIS OWN RADIO PROGRAM ON KKJZ RADIO (88.1 FM) IN LOS ANGELES. FIRST SHOW TO AIR WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17H AT 9:00 P.M. PST 

Hooper’s First New Recording in Five Years Set for Release in 2022 

Renowned drummer, composer, producer, manager, and songwriter Stix Hooper will soon be adding something new to his repertoire—radio host. Best known as one of the founding members of the seminal contemporary music group “The Crusaders,” Hooper will “Lay It On The Line” about all things musical, when he joins America’s jazz and blues station, KKJZ radio (88.1 FM in Los Angeles) as host of his own radio program, Wednesday, November 17th, at 9:00 p.m., PST. 

“Lay It On The Line” will air every third Wednesday on KKJZ at 9:00 p.m. PST. Each broadcast will have its own theme and will feature an eclectic mix of music and conversation. Considered one of music’s most influential artists, the multi-Grammy nominated Hooper will share anecdotes from his own storied career experiences performing and collaborating with such diverse artists as B.B. King, Elton John, Grover Washington, Jr., Hubert Laws, Quincy Jones, Eric Clapton, Nancy Wilson and many others. Hooper will also play compositions from his extensive musical catalog as the leader of his own groups, “Viewpoint” and “Stix Hooper and Friends,” as well as his incredible 30-year run with “The Crusaders.” 

“We are thrilled that Stix will now be part of our KKJZ family. We believe his extraordinary career and unique influence make him a perfect host to take our audience on a musical journey that will explore the full spectrum of jazz,” stated Saul Levine, General Manager.                                                        

“I am very excited about becoming an integral presence on KKJZ. I look forward to presenting a variety of musical recordings, along with informative content and interviews about relevant topics that are entertaining as well as educational,” said Hooper. 

In addition to his new role as radio host, Hooper continues to be involved in other musical adventures. Still a musical innovator, he is now busy putting the finishing touches on his first new recording in five years, to be released in early 2022. Known for breaking boundaries, his new music is an orchestral work, representing a major departure from anything he has done before. “This new recording features musicians from all over the world, reflecting the universal appeal and global influence of music. I’m very excited about it,” Hooper explained. 

As a manager, Hooper has worked with various artists, including noted jazz vocalist Ernestine Anderson. Currently, Hooper is serving as co-executive producer of “The Ernestine Anderson Celebration.” A series of citywide events, the celebration will honor the life and legacy of Seattle’s most iconic jazz and blues artist in November of this year.                                      

Named one of Downbeat’s and Playboy’s top three drummers a remarkable ten times, Hooper has nine Grammy nominations to his credit. Among his varied accomplishments, Hooper was the first African American National Vice Chairman of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) and served an unprecedented three terms as President of NARAS’ Los Angeles chapter, the largest in the organization.  

Considered one of the top drummers/master percussionists in the world, he is known for his unique blending of jazz, funk, and the powerful, daring style that contributed to music’s contemporary fusion movement. Tune in to KKJZ (88.1 FM) every third Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. PST, to hear one of contemporary music’s most influential artists ”Lay It On The Line” about music and the musicians who create it. 

For more information and to listen online, visit www.kkjz.org or www.stixhooper.com.