Keri Rak would be the first to tell you she is a total music nerd. A song-obsessed teenagerhood led into a youthful career working in many a record store. Through it all, she was a sponge for music knowledge, always wanting to absorb more.
Now an adult with a "real job" working for the City of Calgary, she has continued to keep music woven throughout her life. This includes radio. Keri has been spinning tunes over the airwaves for more than twenty years now. The majority of that time has been on the University of Calgary’s campus radio station, CJSW. Starting as co-host of the rockabilly program Whistlebait, she continues to this day as co-host of a long-running country music program, Tombstone After Dark.
On top of her full-time job and hosting gigs, Keri somehow also manages to coach a dragon boat team and raise a rambunctious young daughter.
When it comes to her musical tastes, it’s an eclectic mix. “I have a soft spot for vocal jazz, rockabilly, traditional country, early R&B and new wave ‘80s music,” she says.
To gain inspiration she listens to other shows at CKUA, CJSW and CBC. “Otherwise I read a lot, try to see as much live music as possible and get lots of great tips from listeners!”
What are three go-to songs that inspire Keri?
"You Send Me" by Sam Cooke
"London Calling" by The Clash
"Jolene" by Dolly Parton
What is an interesting detail you might not know about Keri?
In 2020 Keri won a National Community Radio Association Award!
The Wake-Up Shake-Up
Put the coffee on and make room on your kitchen dance floor as Keri Rak sets up your Saturday morning with an eclectic music mix that ranges from Ella Fitzgerald and Chet Baker all the way through to The Shins and Neko Case.
