Listeners Get “Jazzed” with Addition of KEDM2

KEDM is now broadcasting KEDM2 Jazz, a second channel of excellent KEDM programming throughout northeast Louisiana.

"KEDM is excited to be able to provide our community with this additional service," said ULM Director of University Broadcasting Joel Willer. "Our listeners have long enjoyed Jazz on our main channel, and we’re sure they will appreciate the breadth and quality of the new channel."

The channel features music by the masters and new artists, with Jazz classics and the latest releases 24 hours a day, seven days a week, according to Willer. Engaging and enlightening hosts, and topical information for the Jazz listener are also now available. A sampling of the great artists being played on the channel include Billie Holiday, Herbie Mann, Dianne Reeves, Shirley Horn, Charlie Byrd, Kenny Burrell, Ramsey Lewis, Miles Davis, Stanley Turrentine, John Coltrane and Herbie Hancock.

In order to receive the new channel, listeners must acquire a new digital HD Radio, which enables stations to multi-cast up to three channels per analog frequency. KEDM sends out a digital HD Radio signal along with the station’s analog signal.

HD Radio is not to be confused with satellite radio services, said Willer. Unlike other providers of digital radio, HD Radio is available without paying a subscription fee.

The station began digital HD Radio broadcasts of its main programming in April, enabling listeners with HD Radio receivers to enjoy KEDM's traditional programming without the noise and interference of analog. KEDM is the first radio station in northeast Louisiana to make the conversion, although nearly 2,000 stations nationwide using the technology, including stations in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Alexandria and Hammond.

Willer said KEDM is developing a third channel, KEDM3 Ideas, which will consist entirely of news and information programming. Local donors, the Louisiana legislative delegation, and Corporation for Public Broadcasting grants have made the transition to digital broadcasting possible.

Electronics retailers have a variety of HD Radios for sale, including tabletop and car stereos, and certain new cars also come with them. HD radio receivers are available from several online retailers, including Amazon, Apple, Best Buy, Crutchfield, JCPenney, RadioShack, Target and Walmart.

Additional information about HD Radio and KEDM2 can be found on our HD Radio FAQ page.