WYXR
Since its launch in 2020, WYXR 91.7 FM has become Memphis’ heartbeat, offering an eclectic mix of music, news, and community-driven programming. Whether you're tuning in for the soul of blues, the pulse of hip-hop, or the smooth grooves of jazz, WYXR plays it all, serving as a true reflection of the city’s diverse musical landscape.
Carry the Torch through Memphis is a monthly series highlighting the great work of nonprofit organizations in Memphis. This article was written by team members at Campfire Collective in collaboration with I Love Memphis.
We sat down with Liv Cohen, Membership & Community Engagement Coordinator at WYXR, to discuss how the radio station is building community connections, amplifying underrepresented voices, and preserving Memphis' rich cultural heritage through radio.
Tell us about WYXR: What’s the mission statement and vision? Who do you serve? Why is the work you do important?
WYXR 91.7 FM is a non-profit, community-driven, freeform radio station located in the heart of Memphis, TN. Powered by the passion of local volunteers and staff, we're dedicated to delivering a unique blend of music, news, and community programming. From blues to hip-hop, rock to jazz, WYXR 91.7 FM plays an eclectic mix of genres, reflecting the musical tastes of Memphis.
Our mission is to engage, entertain, and inspire the Memphis community by providing a platform for diverse voices and creative expression. We believe in the power of radio to connect people, foster understanding, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our region.
How did WYXR start?
Originally known as WSWM and later WUMR under the University of Memphis, the station focused on jazz and specialty programs. In 2020, the university transferred its license to Crosstown Radio Partnership, Inc., a nonprofit collaboration with Crosstown Concourse and the Daily Memphian. Located in Memphis’ Crosstow Concourse, WYXR now serves as a cultural platform for Memphis, broadcasting music, news, talk, and arts programming. With over 90 volunteer DJs and syndicated shows, its air room is visible to passersby, and its FM signal reaches the greater Memphis area.
Why is this organization located in Memphis? Said differently, what Memphis-specific need is WYXR responding to?
WYXR is located in Memphis to serve the city’s deep-rooted musical and cultural heritage while filling a gap in independent, community-driven media. As a city known for shaping genres like blues, soul, rock, and hip-hop, Memphis thrives on musical diversity, yet many local artists and underrepresented voices struggle for airplay. WYXR responds to this need by providing an open platform for Memphis musicians, storytellers, and cultural contributors, preserving the city's rich legacy while amplifying new and diverse perspectives. Additionally, in a media landscape increasingly dominated by corporate ownership, WYXR offers an alternative—hyperlocal programming that informs, entertains, and unites the community through shared cultural experiences.
How can Memphians get involved with your organization or volunteer?
We have partnered with Volunteer Odyssey to let you know when, where, and how you can volunteer with the station at events – head to volunteer.wyxr.org. For more information on how to apply for a show, you can reach us at contact@wyxr.org.
What are some key events or fundraisers on WYXR’s calendar, and what’s the best way for people to show their support?
From the annual Raised By Sound Music Festival to the Dowd Awards, Meeting in the Middle Seminar, and Stereo Sessions, we host a diverse array of events that celebrate, educate, and connect our community with the vibrant sounds of Memphis. We are always looking for event sponsorships - you can email sponsorships@wyxr.org for more information; and for volunteers - head to volunteer.wyxr.org for current opportunities.
Tell us about your organization’s dreams and goals for the short-term and long-term? What does success look like for WYXR? What changes does WYXR hope to see or bring about?
In the short term, WYXR aims to expand its reach, deepen community engagement, and enhance programming with more local voices, stories, and music. We’re focused on growing our listener base, strengthening partnerships, and increasing support for independent artists.
Long-term, we envision WYXR as a cornerstone of Memphis culture—a station that not only preserves the city’s musical legacy but also fosters its future. Radio is the scaffolding for everything we do, providing the foundation for expanded events and community touchpoints. Success means sustaining a diverse, independent media platform that nurtures creativity, provides meaningful opportunities for volunteers and artists, and keeps Memphis' unique sound alive.
We hope to inspire greater appreciation for the city’s cultural richness, create pathways for emerging talent, and ensure that independent, community-driven radio remains a vital part of Memphis for generations to come.
Tell us a little about you: How long have you been working with this organization? What is your current role? How did you personally get involved with WYXR? What's your favorite part about your work?
I listened to WYXR constantly as a student at Rhodes College—it was also one of my main connections to Memphis when I had to return home during the peak of COVID. When I came back to the city, I was lucky to intern at the station from 2022 to 2023. After graduating in May 2023, I joined full-time as the Membership & Community Engagement Coordinator, overseeing event planning, community partnerships, off-air volunteer management, and memberships/individual giving. The best part of my job? Discovering new music every day. If anything, working here has humbled me as a music fan—our DJs know their stuff!
WYXR isn’t just a radio station—it’s a living, breathing part of Memphis’ cultural fabric.
Through its dedication to storytelling, diverse programming, and authentic community connection, WYXR continues to carry the torch for the city’s rich musical legacy while creating space for new voices to rise. Whether you’re tuning in, volunteering, attending an event, or simply spreading the word, there’s a place for everyone to be part of this sonic movement. As Liv Cohen so perfectly exemplifies, WYXR is powered by people who believe in Memphis—and it’s this collective passion that ensures the station will keep turning up the volume for years to come.
