Interview with Steve Preston Daniels, September 25, 2008

Interview Summary

Daniels begins the interview by discussing his work with WRFL as a DJ during its first years on the air (in the late 1980s). Subsequently, Daniels describes one of the founders of WRFL, Kathleen "Kakie" Urch's column that she wrote for the Kentucky Kernel student newspaper. The first meeting of people interested in starting an alternative music college radio station is also mentioned. The WRFL community is then compared to the university and its social structures. The interviewee also examines the social climate of WRFL itself. The skills that Daniels obtained from being a DJ at WRFL are articulated. Next, Daniels explains the appeal of alternative music, as well as the experience of leaving WRFL and its emotional impact. The effect of WRFL upon the University of Kentucky is also considered. Additionally, the interviewee discusses the music genres that WRFL played, as well as those that were played by other radio stations in Lexington in the 1980s. The tasks that DJs were expected to complete are then listed. The essence of WRFL is characterized by Daniels, coupled with the impact of WRFL upon the interviewee personally. Daniels concludes the interview by providing his favorite memories of WRFL, and an overview of the Lexington alternative music scene in the 1980s.

Interview Keyword

WRFL Alternative music DJs Local music Disc jockeys Deejays

Interview LC Subject

Broadcasting--Kentucky--History Lexington (Ky.). Radio Radio broadcasters--Interviews University of Kentucky Counterculture Radio--History

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.