KPSQ features several programs produced by local community members. In this blog post, we shine a light on BantuNauts RAYdio, a local show produced and hosted by husband-and-wife team, Charles Ray and Bibi Mwamba.
Tell us about your radio show. What is it about?
BantuNauts RAYdio is a weekly music and talk radio show broadcasting from Little Rock (Arkansas). We created the show in 2014.
The name of the show is a combination of the words Bantu (people) and Nauts (sailors). BantuNauts are “travelers who explore the world through music, arts, and traditions”.
One of the goals of the show is to explore cultures around the world, with a particular focus on the music and cultures of Africa and the African Diaspora. You will enjoy the show if you like listening to great music, exploring other cultures, and connecting with people from all over the world.
BantuNauts RAYdio airs every Thursday from 10:00 pm until midnight (CT).
When did your show start airing on KPSQ?
The first show aired on KPSQ on March 18th, 2021.
Another volunteer DJ (Theronius) recommended we apply and join. We already had an interest in spreading our show outside of KABF in Little Rock, Arkansas. We wanted to connect with international students and residents of Fayetteville who are familiar with the global music being featured on our program.
What do you like about doing radio?
I always listened to and have had great respect for radio DJs since the ’80s. I like the idea of how a DJ can entertain the people listening and make them have a good time, whether he or she is on the radio or at parties or at the club. (Charles)
I’m always learning new things, and I enjoy connecting with artists and listeners. (Bibi)
Any good movie, book, or music recommendations?
I recommend these two music genres to check out: 1. Amapiano (originated in South Africa and spreading like a virus) and 2. Afrobeats (dominating mostly in western Africa and growing everywhere else like the U.K. & the U.S.) (Charles)
I love that the internet has made it easier to access African music, movies, and TV shows from anywhere in the world. Netflix has a great selection, and I recommend you start with these 3: Lionheart (from Nigeria), Jiva! (from South Africa), and Cook Off (from Zimbabwe). (Bibi)
Where can people find more information about your show?
Check out our website https://bantunauts.com/ or follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
Catch BantuNauts RAYdio on Thursdays starting at 10 PM on KPSQ-LP 97.3 FM.