Northeast Louisiana is ready to shine at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, as 90.3 KEDM Public Radio hosts a gala event honoring its 34-year legacy of service to the region and five years of The Boot, the Louisiana-music-focused nighttime program. The fete, dubbed 'The Boot on the Bayou,' promises an evening of music, food, and community spirit at a venue adorned with unique décor inspired by the area’s rich musical heritage.
The festivities will feature stunning designs by Clinton Downing of Revival Design & Consign and Angie O’Pry Blades, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. Guests will be greeted with live performances by two promising local artists, Vaughan Weztel and Logan Craig, as they arrive.
Attendees can enjoy an array of heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails while participating in a silent auction and engaging in party games. Football fans won’t miss out either, as screens around the venue will broadcast the LSU Tigers’ showdown against Florida. Later in the evening, Mr. TaylorMade and the TaylorMade Band will take over with their signature grooves, ensuring the dance floor stays lively.
This year’s gala highlights KEDM’s growing commitment to local music through The Boot, which airs nightly and showcases a blend of Louisiana artists, Southern regional acts, and Gulf South-inspired genres such as blues, funk, soul, and zydeco. The program features a local artist every hour and is hosted by Cory Crowe, Jay Curtis, and Kirby Rambin, who guide listeners through the sounds and stories of the Delta.
The station’s dedication to supporting local music extends beyond the airwaves with The Parish Playlist, a weekly listing of live music events across Ouachita Parish and northeast Louisiana. The Parish Playlist is KEDM’s part in developing the music economy of northeast Louisiana,” says Curtis. “Musicians and venues have expressed their gratitude for the email and social media updates that highlight the vibrant live music scene in our community.”
KEDM’s efforts come at a critical time as the station faces financial challenges following a Congressional vote to end federal funding for more than 1,500 stations nationwide. The cuts could amount to nearly $300,000 in lost funding for KEDM over the next two years, prompting an intense fundraising campaign to sustain its operations.
The Boot on the Bayou gala offers residents an opportunity to support KEDM while celebrating its contributions to the local arts and culture scene. Tickets and table reservations are available at www.kedm.org or by calling 318-342-5575. Tickets can be purchased online at: KEDM Boot on the Bayou | Powered By GiveSmart.
